One of the most unique tourist attractions we have visited is the Redwoods Skywalk in Eureka California. A maze of man-made walkways brings visitors on an unforgettable walk high in the tree canopy. It’s an unparalleled way to experience the awe-inspiring size and beauty of the giant redwood trees.
This incredible ADA-accessible skywalk traverses between trees in a forest of old-growth and mature second-growth coastal redwood forest. This post shares the details for experiencing this one-of-a-kind attraction.
Redwoods Skywalk & Sequoia Park Zoo
The Redwoods Skywalk, which opened in 2021, is located in the Sequoia Park Zoo. The small zoo is operated by the city of Eureka and is the oldest in California. You must purchase entry to the zoo in order to access the Redwoods Skywalk. The ticket grants you access to both the Sequoia Park Zoo and the Redwoods Skywalk. It’s open year-round 10AM-5PM, but closed on Mondays.
Ticket Prices
Non-resident | Resident (Humboldt County)
Adult (13 or older) – $24.95 | $14.95
Child (3-10) – $11.95 | $10.95
Child (0-3) – Free
Senior(60+), Military, Student – $12.95
Gateway & Ascent Ramp
The gateway and ascent ramp for the Redwoods Skywalk begins in Sequoia Park Zoo. The skywalk then leaves the boundaries of the zoo and enters the neighboring forest of Sequoia Park. This city park is probably the most beautiful you will ever see. It’s packed with a mix of old-growth and mature second-growth redwoods that quickly transport you from dense neighborhood into peaceful forest.
The beauty of the design is that the skywalk is built across a sloping landscape. So visitors ascend a gentle incline, while the ground falls away. This quickly brings you up over 100 feet above the forest floor with minimal effort. The walkways are even ADA-accessible so people of all ages and ability levels can share the experience.
Redwoods Skywalk Height & Length
The Skywalk reaches about ⅓ of the way up the giant redwoods trees. But even from there, you are about 100 feet above the ground.
Those with a fear of heights may find the experience nerve-racking. Especially because you can feel some mild swaying and vibrations. But rest assured that the entire skywalk is designed with safety in mind for children and the handicapped. So it’s quite safe and easy to navigate. And it’s also built to withstand earthquakes and high winds.
The entire skywalk is about ¼ mile to the end and back. You can expect to spend about 20-45 minutes exploring, taking pictures, or simply marveling at the trees from such heights. You traverse a series of platforms and bridges between the trees.
Adventure Segment
There is an optional Adventure Segment (not ADA accessible) at the end of the Redwoods Skywalk. This section switches to a suspension bridge style with open mesh deck plates. The mesh decking allows you to see right through to the forest floor below. And the suspension bridges are much more prone to movement from your body weight.
Does The Skywalk Hurt The Redwood Trees?
I was also curious how this structure might impact the trees themselves. The statement from the Sequoia Park Zoo states
“The technique and mechanics of these attachments have been designed specifically to ensure minimal impact on the trees to which they are anchored to add strength over time and provide room for them to continue to grow unimpeded.”
Sequoia Park Zoo
With your ticket purchase, you also have access to the rest of the Sequoia Park Zoo. So if you have some extra time, be sure to explore the zoo’s interesting animal exhibits. We saw flamingos, red pandas, bald eagles, bush dogs, alpacas, and more!
See The Redwoods Skywalk In Our Youtube Video
Take a fun tour of the Redwoods Skywalk with us.
Takeaway
The Redwoods Skywalk is one of the coolest experiences in the country. We thoroughly enjoyed the chance to walk amongst the giant redwood trees. There’s the excitement of being suspended in air, while yet completely immersed by the serene forest all around you. If you are in northern California, this is definitely the most unique way to experience redwood trees.
For more information, you can visit the official skywalk website.
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