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Boy Scout Tree Trail

The Boy Scout Tree Trail at Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park in Crescent City, California is a moderate 2.8-mile out-and-back trail that leads to a waterfall, Fern Falls.

The trailhead is on the left side of Howland Hill Road. This trail is a beautiful forested path that will take you through some huge redwoods along the way to Fern Falls. A bit more than half-way to Fern Falls, the trail heads up a set of stairs to the Boy Scout Redwood tree.
After the Boy Scout tree, you will head back down to the main trail and continue onward a short distance to Fern Falls.

The falls have a nice resting spot where visitors can enjoy the view. If you visit during mid-Summer, Fern Falls may be somewhat dried up, so plan your hike around heavy rains or the Spring to see Fern Falls in action.

Parking: Parking can be found at the coordinates provided, by the trailhead.

Water sources: If you carry a water filter, you can refill your water bottle from the streams along the trail.

Pets: Dogs are not allowed on this trail or at Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park.

Biking: Biking is not allowed on this trail.

Camping: Camping and backpacking is not allowed on this trail.
Explore 27 trails near Crescent City, CA

Know Before You Go

  • The Boy Scout Tree Trail in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park is a 2.8-mile (out-and-back) moderate hike to Fern Falls, featuring large redwood trees and the Boy Scout Tree.
  • The trailhead is located on Howland Hill Road, and parking is available nearby; however, dogs and bikes are prohibited, and camping is not allowed on the trail.
  • Fern Falls' water flow may be reduced in mid-summer, so it's best to visit after heavy rains or during the spring.
Interactive topographic map for Boy Scout Tree Trail located in Crescent City, CA. Click the "View Map" button to load GPS coordinates and trail markers.
Get directions
Distance
5.6 mi
Difficulty
Moderate
Type
Out-and-Back
Est. Time
2.8 hrs
Elev. Gain
1,635'
Rating
0.0
Added
August 09, 2019
Updated
March 18, 2025

Weather Forecast

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Total Change
508'
Ascent
1,635'
Descent
1,642'
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Features

Waterfalls
Water Source

Points of interest

  1. Parking

    41.768532, -124.110255
  2. Main Trailhead

    41.768632, -124.109929

Safety information

For your own safety: plan ahead, let someone know where you'll be, and hike at your own risk.

Hazards

Snakes (Rattlesnakes, Copperheads, others)
Poison Ivy or Poison Oak

Availability

All seasons

Surface type

Dirt

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