Why You Should Add a Fern Canyon Adventure to Your Redwoods Elopement (and How to Do It!)
If you’re dreaming of a Redwoods elopement that feels like stepping into a fairytale—or straight into Jurassic Park—then you need to include a Fern Canyon adventure as part of your wedding day experience. Tucked within Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, this stunning canyon is so otherworldly that it was used as a filming location for The Lost World: Jurassic Park. With 50-foot walls draped in lush prehistoric ferns and a creek running through its base, Fern Canyon is the kind of place that makes time stand still.
While you can’t legally hold your ceremony inside the canyon, it’s still an unforgettable location for couple portraits and a scenic post-ceremony adventure. In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to visit Fern Canyon as part of your Redwoods elopement, what to expect, and how to plan it seamlessly into your timeline.
What Is Fern Canyon?
Fern Canyon is a narrow, mossy ravine that feels like you’ve stumbled onto another planet. It’s part of Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, located within the larger Redwood National and State Parks system in Northern California. The 1.1-mile loop trail through the canyon follows Home Creek and winds between towering canyon walls dripping with ferns—some of which date back over 325 million years.
Need help planning your Prairie Creek Redwoods Elopement? Check out my helpful guide here!
Can You Elope in Fern Canyon?
Ceremonies are not allowed in Fern Canyon—it’s a protected ecological area, and park rules prohibit events or wedding gatherings there. However, it’s an incredible place to include in your Redwoods elopement day for private portraits or a peaceful nature walk after your ceremony.
Fern Canyon Hike Details
- Trail Type: Loop
- Length: 1.1 miles
- Elevation Gain: 127 ft
- Difficulty: Easy
- Trailhead Amenities: Bathrooms and beach access nearby
- Pet Policy: No pets allowed
- Estimated Time: 30–45 minutes (longer if you stop for portraits)
- What to Wear: Water sandals or waterproof boots—there’s a creek running through the canyon, and your feet will get wet!
Tip: Most couples hike in with photo-friendly shoes and then change into more practical footwear for the canyon adventure.
How to Access Fern Canyon
1. Get Your Free Reservation Permit (May–September)
If you’re visiting between May 15 and September 15, you must reserve a free day-use permit online in advance:
- Reserve here: https://redwoodparksconservancy.org/fern-canyon/
- 100 permits are released the day before at 8:00 AM PST
- You can also book up to 90 days in advance
- These go fast in summer—set an alarm and book early!
2. Pay the Day-Use Fee
- $12 cash-only day-use fee at the gate
- Or use your America the Beautiful National Parks Pass
3. Prepare Your Vehicle
To reach the Fern Canyon trailhead, you must:
- Drive along a dirt road for several miles
- Cross two shallow streams that vary in depth depending on recent rainfall
- A high-clearance or AWD vehicle is strongly recommended
- Always check current road conditions on the Redwood National and State Parks website before your visit
Best Time of Year to Visit Fern Canyon
Late spring through early fall (May–October) offers the most accessible conditions. Summer is lush and green—but also the most crowded. For fewer people and beautiful light, aim for:
- May or September: Slightly less crowded, but still green and vibrant
- Early morning: Visit around sunrise to beat the crowds and enjoy soft, glowing canyon light
Avoid heavy rain seasons (late fall through early spring), as the streams may become difficult to cross and the trail can be slippery.
Tips for Including Fern Canyon in Your Redwoods Elopement
- Have your ceremony elsewhere: Choose a nearby redwood grove (like the Prairie Creek Trail or Foothill Trail) for your vows
- Schedule Fern Canyon for post-ceremony portraits: The easy hike is a relaxing way to unwind after your vows
- Pack sandals or boots + a towel: Your shoes will get wet—be prepared!
- Bring your permit + cash: You won’t be allowed in without a printed or digital permit during the peak season
- Plan for time to savor it: Many couples choose to walk through the canyon twice—it’s that magical!
Dog-Friendly Alternatives to Fern Canyon for Your Redwoods Elopement
If you’re dreaming of a Fern Canyon elopement but hoping to include your pup on the adventure, there’s one important thing to know: dogs aren’t allowed on the Fern Canyon trail due to preservation efforts within Redwoods National and State Parks.
But don’t worry—you can still have an unforgettable Redwoods elopement with your dog by exploring these stunning, pet-friendly alternatives that capture the same magical forest and coastal vibes.
1. Arcata Community Forest
- Vibe: Towering redwoods, fern-lined paths, and soft forest light.
- Dog Policy: Leashed dogs welcome.
- Why It’s Perfect: Just a short drive from Fern Canyon, Arcata Community Forest offers all the enchanting redwoods scenery—without the restrictions. This is a fantastic alternative for couples planning a dog-friendly Redwoods elopement.
- Bonus: No permit is required for small elopement ceremonies here.
2. Trinidad State Beach + Forest Trails
- Vibe: Coastal cliffs, forest trails, and dramatic rock formations.
- Dog Policy: Leashed dogs allowed on most beaches and trails.
- Why It’s Perfect: For couples who love the idea of a beach and redwoods elopement, Trinidad offers the best of both worlds. You can enjoy an ocean-view hike and wrap up with sunset photos along the rugged shoreline—with your pup by your side.
3. Humboldt Lagoons State Park
- Vibe: Peaceful forests, freshwater lagoons, and quiet beaches.
- Dog Policy: Dogs allowed on leash.
- Why It’s Perfect: This lesser-known spot is ideal for couples wanting a more secluded, off-the-beaten-path elopement in the Redwoods region. With fewer crowds and wide-open spaces, it’s an amazing option for couples bringing their dog along for the day.
Just because Fern Canyon isn’t dog-friendly doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the magic of a Redwoods elopement. With these pet-friendly alternatives, you can still experience towering trees, moody coastal air, and unforgettable moments with your furry best friend right by your side.
Sample Redwoods Elopement Timeline with Fern Canyon Adventure
Here’s how you can weave Fern Canyon into your Redwoods elopement day while keeping things intentional, relaxed, and full of adventure:
Redwoods Elopement + Fern Canyon Adventure Timeline
8:00 AM — Getting Ready
Start your day slowly at your cozy redwoods cabin. Sip coffee, write your vows, and get ready surrounded by peaceful forest light.
9:00 AM — First Look in the Redwoods
Share a quiet, emotional first look among the towering trees—just the two of you (and maybe your pup if you’re staying in a dog-friendly area outside the park boundaries!).
9:30 AM — Private Vow Exchange
Find a secluded redwood grove nearby for your personal vow exchange. This is the heart of your day—raw, intentional, and entirely yours.
10:00 AM — Begin Drive to Fern Canyon (approx. 30 mins)
Take the scenic route down to Fern Canyon through Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. Enjoy the beautiful drive along Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway and Davison Road.
10:30 AM — Fern Canyon Portrait Adventure (1 hour)
Hike the easy 1.1-mile loop through the moss-draped canyon walls, stopping for portraits, laughter, and moments of wonder. Walk through the canyon once—or twice, if you’re not ready to leave the magic yet!
11:30 AM — Beach Photos at Gold Bluffs Beach
As you drive back, stop at Gold Bluffs Beach for windswept coastal portraits. The dramatic ocean views and golden dunes are the perfect contrast to the forest.
12:15 PM — Wrap Up Adventure or Head to Picnic / Celebration
From here, you can head back to your cabin, meet family for a celebratory lunch, or take a break before a sunset dinner and cake cutting under the stars.
FAQ: Fern Canyon Elopement Adventure
Can we legally have our wedding ceremony in Fern Canyon?
No, ceremonies are not permitted in Fern Canyon. However, you can explore it for photos and adventure portraits.
Is it worth including Fern Canyon in our elopement day?
Absolutely. It’s one of the most unique and visually stunning spots in the entire Redwoods region.
How do we get a permit to access Fern Canyon?
Visit https://redwoodparksconservancy.org/fern-canyon/ to reserve a free day-use permit. They’re required from May 15 to Sept 15.
Do we need a special car?
You’ll need a vehicle capable of handling dirt roads and shallow stream crossings. A high-clearance or AWD vehicle is ideal.
Can we bring our dog?
Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on any trails in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, including Fern Canyon.
If you need more tips and information for your Redwoods Elopement, check out my guide here!
Recap: Fern Canyon at a Glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Loop |
| Length | 1.1 miles |
| Elevation Gain | 127 ft |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Pet Policy | No pets allowed |
| Permit Required? | Yes (May 15–Sept 15 only) |
| Where to Reserve Permit | redwoodparksconservancy.org/fern-canyon |
| Day-Use Fee | $12 cash (or America the Beautiful Pass) |
| Vehicle Needs | High-clearance or AWD preferred for stream crossings |
| Best Time to Visit | Early morning, May–October |
| Trail Amenities | Bathrooms, beach access |
Add Fern Canyon to Your Redwoods Elopement Adventure
A Fern Canyon elopement portrait session is more than just a photo stop—it’s a chance to experience the quiet awe of nature, hand in hand, with walls of green rising around you. If you’re planning a Redwoods elopement, don’t miss the opportunity to walk through this real-life Jurassic jungle.
As your Redwoods elopement photographer, I’ll help you plan the perfect timeline to include Fern Canyon while navigating permits, parking, and the best lighting—so all you have to do is show up and soak it in. Let’s start planning your elopement adventure today! [Contact me here!]
