Stout Memorial Grove
at Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
The 44 acre Stout Memorial Grove is often considered the heart of the Jedediah Smith Redwoods State park. The loop trail leads through colossal redwoods 300+ feet tall with waist-high ferns carpeting the forest floor. Other plants and tree growth has been blocked by flood waters that prevent their growth allowing for a magnificent view of these redwoods.
Since this grove is a little more remote it provides the benefit of having lower numbers of visitors compared to other locations. The Stout Grove loop trail is about .7 mile and good for all skill levels, it can be accessed year round.
Stout Grove Gallery
How To Get To Stout Grove Trailhead
From Crescent City take US 199 N to S Fork Rd which is located about 2 miles past the Hiouchi Visitor Center. Follow S. Fork Rd over two bridges then turn right onto Douglas Park Drive for 1.3 miles bearing right at a 3 way intersection onto Howland Hills Rd. for 1.1 mile. Turn right on the paved road to the Stout Grove parking area. Note: As you enter the redwoods the paved road transitions to dirt for the last 1.5 mile.
An alternative method and the route we chose is much more scenic. The route follows a narrow dirt road by way of Elk Valley/Howland Hill Roads from the south. From Hwy 101 travel east on Elk Valley Rd for 1.1 mile and turn right onto Howland Hill Rd. Continue 1.8 miles then bear left to stay on Howland Hill for another 4 miles, Turn left to reach the Stout Grove parking area.
In 2018 a viewing platform was built around the base of Stout Tree to help protect the fragile root system. Click to view press release.
Where We Ate
After visiting Stout Grove we headed to Crescent City to grab some lunch. We happened upon North Coast Ocean Sports & Grill, a casual little place with outdoor seating. After ordering at the counter you can sit anywhere and they deliver your food to the table, we grabbed a seat looking at the water. We ordered the seafood tacos and shrimp along with a small bowl of clam chowder. Friendly staff, delicious food, reasonable prices and the chowder ranked among the best we had on our trip. They also serve beer and wine. We treated ourselves to a small ice cream afterward.
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