A Unique Redwood Coast Getaway
Eighty Years at the Trees of Mystery Along Highway 101
Trees of Mystery has been the oddest, most memorable stop on Highway 101 since 1946. If you’re looking for a unique attraction on California’s Redwood Coast, this is the place where folklore, ancient trees, and a little roadside theater all come together. A 49 foot Paul Bunyan and his 35 foot blue ox, Babe, greet visitors on arrival.
What a Trip to Trees of Mystery Includes
One ticket covers the entire experience, so there’s no paying per attraction once you’re through the gate. That means the SkyTrail gondola, the Redwood Canopy Trail, the walking trails, the Trail of Tall Tales, and the End of the Trail Museum are all included.
The SkyTrail carries riders about a third of a mile through the redwood canopy in under ten minutes, ending at an observation deck with views that reach the Pacific on a clear day. From there, you can ride back down or walk the wilderness trail through the grove instead.
For a closer look at the canopy itself, the Redwood Canopy Trail uses a series of aerial platforms and suspension bridges to put visitors 50 to 100 feet up among the branches. Ten platforms and eight bridges make up the route, with a spiral staircase connecting two of the higher points.
Ancient Trees You Have to See to Believe
The Cathedral Tree is actually nine trees grown together into a semicircle over centuries. The Candelabra Tree and the Elephant Tree have grown into shapes distinctive enough to become trail landmarks. The Brotherhood Tree, one of the largest living redwoods in the world at roughly 2,000 years old, 19 feet in diameter, and nearly 300 feet tall. It survived the logging that cleared much of the surrounding area in the 1950s, anchoring the trail today.
Make Old Town Eureka Your Home Base
A day at Trees of Mystery deserves a comfortable place to land, and Carter House Inns delivers exactly that. Set in a collection of restored Victorian buildings in the heart of Old Town Eureka, our hotel near Trees of Mystery puts you within easy reach of the redwoods while keeping you close to downtown shopping, the Carson Mansion, and Humboldt Bay.
Every stay includes a complimentary glass of wine in the evening and full breakfast in the morning. Guests looking for a evening out choose Restaurant 301, our on site dining room known for its award winning wine list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Trees of Mystery worth it?
For most visitors, yes. A single ticket covers the gondola, canopy trail, walking paths, and museum, so you’re getting several distinct experiences for one admission price rather than paying separately for each.
How long does a visit to Trees of Mystery take?
Plan for two to three hours if you want to see the gondola, walk the Redwood Canopy Trail, and stop through the museum without rushing.
Is Trees of Mystery dog friendly?
Leashed dogs are welcome across most of the property, including the walking trails. The one exception is the Redwood Canopy Trail, where dogs are not permitted on the aerial suspension bridges.
Where should I stay near Trees of Mystery?
Carter House Inns in Old Town Eureka is a comfortable, centrally located option for exploring the Redwood Coast, with Victorian architecture, on site dining, and easy access to redwood groves and coastal attractions.
Ready to make the most of your Redwood Coast getaway? Book your stay at Carter House Inns and use our Old Town Eureka location as your base for exploring Trees of Mystery and everything else Redwood National Park have to offer.