Redwoods Elopement Guide: Central vs. Northern California Redwoods
If you’re dreaming of a Redwoods Elopement, you’ve already chosen one of the most magical places on earth to say your vows. Towering trees, emerald groves, filtered sunlight, and a sense of timeless wonder—it’s no wonder so many couples choose the redwoods for their wedding day.
But here’s the big question: should you elope in the Central California Redwoods near Santa Cruz and Big Sur, or venture north to the Northern California Redwoods around Humboldt County and Crescent City?
Both regions are breathtaking, but they each offer unique experiences for couples planning a redwoods elopement. In this guide, I’ll break down the differences, highlight pros and cons, compare weather, share travel tips, and help you decide which location is perfect for your day.
Central California Redwoods Elopement Guide (Henry Cowell & Big Sur)
When most people picture the redwoods, their mind goes to the Santa Cruz mountains and surrounding coastal areas. This is home to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, as well as unique private venues tucked into the forest like Waterfall Lodge, Glen Oaks Big Sur, and Sparrow Valley Retreat.
Why Choose the Central Redwoods?
The central coast offers an incredible blend of majestic forests and iconic coastal cliffs. With Santa Cruz and Monterey nearby, you’ll have access to beaches, charming small towns, and vibrant local culture. Even better—Big Sur is just an hour south of Henry Cowell, meaning you can pair a redwoods vow exchange with portraits overlooking the rugged Pacific coastline.
Couples who want the best of both worlds—redwoods and coastal adventure—often lean toward the central region.
How Lush Are the Central Redwoods?
On a scale of green and lushness, the central redwoods are about a 7 out of 10. The groves are gorgeous, but because of the slightly drier Mediterranean climate, the moss, ferns, and dense undergrowth aren’t quite as thick as you’ll find farther north.
That said, you’ll still get towering trees, plenty of greenery, and that fairytale forest vibe.
Pros of a Central Redwoods Elopement
- 🌲 Accessibility – Close to major airports like San Jose (SJC) and Monterey (MRY).
- 🏞 Variety of scenery – Pair redwoods with Big Sur cliffs, Santa Cruz beaches, or Monterey charm.
- 🏡 Unique venues – Gorgeous redwoods properties like Waterfall Lodge, Glen Oaks, and Sparrow Valley Retreat.
- 🐶 Dog-friendly options – Some trails at Henry Cowell and surrounding areas allow leashed pups.
- 🎉 Guest-friendly – Easier for family to join since Santa Cruz and Monterey offer plenty of accommodations and activities.
Cons of a Central Redwoods Elopement
- 🌱 Less lush than the north – Forest is slightly drier and not as mossy or green.
- 🚗 More crowds – Proximity to major cities means parks can be busy, especially weekends.
- 🌳 Fewer ceremony options inside Henry Cowell – Only a couple of designated areas, and some have fences.
Northern California Redwoods Elopement Guide (Humboldt, Prairie Creek & Jedediah Smith)
Drive 4–6 hours north and you’ll reach the true giants of the redwood world. The Northern California Redwoods span across Humboldt Redwoods State Park, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, and countless groves along the Avenue of the Giants. This region covers 145 miles of old-growth redwoods and is home to some of the largest, widest, and greenest trees in the world.
Why Choose the Northern Redwoods?
If you want to feel like you’ve stepped into another world, the northern redwoods deliver. These forests are a 10 out of 10 in lushness. Think: ferns carpeting the ground, moss draping branches, fog weaving between trunks, and sunlight streaming through cathedral-like groves.
Beyond the trees, northern California also gives you turquoise rivers and wild beaches with epic rock formations. It’s the perfect blend of forest and coastal adventure, but on a much more remote, untouched scale.
Pros of a Northern Redwoods Elopement
- 🌲 Biggest, greenest, most epic redwoods – Nothing compares to Jedediah Smith, Avenue of the Giants, and Prairie Creek.
- 🏞 More ceremony options – Many trails and groves available for different group sizes and adventures.
- 🌊 Turquoise rivers & dramatic beaches – Adds variety to your elopement gallery.
- 🐶 Dog-friendly options – While many redwoods trails restrict pets, nearby beaches and certain forests allow leashed dogs.
- 🌌 Secluded & peaceful – Fewer crowds than central California parks.
Cons of a Northern Redwoods Elopement
- 🚗 Harder to access – Closest airports are Arcata-Eureka (ACV) and Medford, Oregon (MFR), both of which are smaller regional hubs.
- 🏨 Limited lodging – Fewer hotels and Airbnbs compared to Santa Cruz or Monterey.
- 🎉 Less guest-friendly – Better suited for just the two of you or very small groups.
Central vs Northern Redwoods Elopement: Which Is Best?
| Feature | Central Redwoods (Henry Cowell & Santa Cruz) | Northern Redwoods (Humboldt, Prairie Creek, Jedediah) |
|---|---|---|
| Lushness | 7/10 – beautiful but slightly drier | 10/10 – ferns, moss, and dense greenery |
| Tree Size | Tall and impressive | The largest, widest, and oldest redwoods |
| Accessibility | Easy from SJC or MRY | Remote, via ACV or Medford |
| Nearby Adventures | Big Sur, Monterey Bay, Santa Cruz | Turquoise rivers, wild beaches, 145 miles of groves |
| Crowds | Busier, especially weekends | Quieter, more secluded |
| Venues | Unique lodges & retreats | More natural forest and state park settings |
| Guest Options | Easier for families to join | Best for intimate, adventurous couples |
| Dog-Friendly | Some trails & lodges | Select beaches & forests nearby |
My pick? Northern Redwoods. The sheer scale, untouched beauty, and lush greenery make it my favorite. Nothing compares to walking among the ancient giants of Humboldt and Jedediah Smith—it feels like stepping into another world.
Weather Differences Between Central & Northern Redwoods
- Central Redwoods (Santa Cruz/Big Sur):
- Mediterranean climate – dry, warm summers and mild winters.
- Summers are sunnier but can be hot inland.
- Winters bring rain but not as much fog as the north.
- Northern Redwoods (Humboldt/Crescent City):
- Cool, coastal climate – foggy mornings, misty afternoons, consistent greenery year-round.
- Summers are mild and comfortable, rarely too hot.
- Winters are wetter, with heavy rains but also the lushest forests.
If you want guaranteed greenery and don’t mind fog, go north. If you want a mix of sunshine, beaches, and forests, go central.
The Best Time of Year for a Redwoods Elopement
Every season brings its own magic to the redwoods:
- Spring (March–May): Lush greenery, wildflowers, and milder weather. Great for photos but can be rainy.
- Summer (June–August): Warm, dry weather in central redwoods; foggy, mild, and lush in the north. Expect more crowds in July.
- Fall (September–November): Golden light filters through the trees, and the forests are still green from summer. Less crowded than peak season.
- Winter (December–February): Misty, moody vibes with fewer visitors. Northern redwoods are at their greenest, but rain is frequent.
Packing List for Your Redwoods Elopement
Eloping in the redwoods often means adventuring outdoors. Here’s what to pack for a stress-free day:
- Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
- Layers (temperatures vary drastically between sun and shade)
- Reusable water bottles
- Snacks or a picnic
- Headlamps or lanterns for magical evening photos
- A champagne bottle for popping (and cups for sipping!)
- Dog leash, water, and treats if bringing your pup
- Printed permit (if required for your ceremony spot)
Flying Into the Redwoods
Getting to the redwoods depends on whether you choose central or northern California:
- Central California Redwoods
- San Jose International Airport (SJC): Closest major hub, ~40 min drive to Henry Cowell.
- Monterey Regional Airport (MRY): Smaller airport, ~45 min drive.
- Northern California Redwoods
- Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV): Closest option to Humboldt and Prairie Creek.
- Medford, Oregon (MFR): Good choice for Jedediah Smith and Crescent City.
Rental cars are a must in both regions. Rideshares like Uber and Lyft are unreliable once you’re in forested areas.
Dog-Friendly Redwoods Elopements
Great news for couples with four-legged family members: both central and northern redwoods offer dog-friendly options.
- Central Redwoods: Certain trails at Henry Cowell, and nearby coastal trails, allow leashed pets. Many lodges and Airbnbs in the Santa Cruz mountains are pet-friendly.
- Northern Redwoods: While most state park trails restrict dogs, the beaches near Trinidad and Crescent City are pet-friendly, and some forests around Humboldt have dog-welcoming paths.
If including your dog is a priority, it’s worth building your elopement timeline around dog-friendly spots.
Redwoods Elopement FAQs
Do you need a permit for a redwoods elopement?
Yes. Most redwoods parks—including Henry Cowell, Humboldt Redwoods, Prairie Creek, and Jedediah Smith—require a special use permit for ceremonies. Private venues like Waterfall Lodge or Glen Oaks handle this for you.
What is the best time of year for a redwoods elopement?
Spring and fall are ideal for mild weather, greenery, and fewer crowds. Summer is busier but great for central California. Winter is lush and moody in the north.
Are dogs allowed at a redwoods elopement?
Yes, but only in certain areas. Henry Cowell and surrounding trails allow leashed pets. In the north, many trails restrict dogs, but beaches around Trinidad and Crescent City welcome them.
How do you get to the redwoods for an elopement?
Central: Fly into San Jose (SJC) or Monterey (MRY). Northern: Fly into Arcata-Eureka (ACV) or Medford, Oregon (MFR). A rental car is essential.
Central vs Northern Redwoods: which is better for eloping?
Both are incredible. Central offers accessibility and Big Sur adventures. Northern offers the biggest, lushest, most secluded redwoods. If I had to choose, I’d pick Northern Redwoods.
Final Thoughts: Making Your Redwoods Elopement Unforgettable
Whether you say your vows under the canopy at Henry Cowell or deep within the Avenue of the Giants, a redwoods elopement promises a wedding day filled with adventure, romance, and nature’s magic.
Your biggest decision isn’t whether the redwoods are right for you—they already are—it’s which redwoods to choose. Central California gives you accessibility and coastal variety, while Northern California immerses you in the most lush, ancient forests in the world.
No matter which you pick, your redwoods elopement will be nothing short of epic.
Ready to Plan Your Redwoods Elopement?
If you’re dreaming of saying your vows under the towering giants of California’s redwoods, I’d love to help bring your vision to life. As a destination elopement photographer and planner, I’ll guide you through finding the perfect ceremony spot, securing permits, crafting your adventure-filled timeline, and capturing every breathtaking moment.
Whether you’re drawn to the accessibility and coastal beauty of the Central California redwoods or the secluded, lush magic of the Northern California redwoods, your day deserves to feel unforgettable and completely true to you.
📩 Get in touch with the form below to start planning your redwoods elopement with me—I can’t wait to hear your story and help create an epic day among the giants.
