The southern part of the parks features the old-growth redwood forests and the prairie environments of both Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park and the Redwood Creek area. In addition, several trails allow visitors to experience the ongoing forest restoration taking place at RNSP.

Following are three trails in this area:

Easy 11-mile (18-km) round trip hike through varied environments

Location: Begin at the Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park Visitor Center.

Description: This trail follows an old trail used by gold miners in the 1800s. It is generally flat and passes through spectacular old-growth redwood forests, the 30-foot walls of Fern Canyon, and along Gold Bluffs Beach. Backpacking is possible with a stay at the Miners Ridge camp. Bring your own water.

Moderate 10-mile (16-km) round trip hike through prairie

Location: Take the Bald Hills Road about three miles past the Tall Trees Access Road to the Dolason Prairie Picnic Area.

Description: This is an all-day hike with some steep grades and switchbacks through open prairie country. The trail gradually descends into the Redwood Creek drainage through old-growth and second-growth redwood forests. This trail connects with the Tall Trees Trail. Bring your own water.

Easy 1-mile (1-½ km) loop through redwoods

Location: Take the Bald Hills Road (trailers and motorhomes not recommended) off Highway 101 2-½ miles to the parking lot.

Description: This is an easy 1-hour stroll through an old-growth redwood grove.