Northern California: Redwood Bliss & Ocean Mist

$2800

Sold Out!

Sept 9 – 13, 2026

Group size: 6 – 8

Booking Deadline: August 9, 2026

About this trip

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Northern California, where ancient redwood forests meet the wild Pacific coastline. This five-day adventure is based in the charming coastal town of Trinidad and offers the perfect blend of outdoor exploration, scenic serenity, and local flavor. Hike beneath towering redwoods that have stood for centuries, wander lush canyon trails, and breathe in the crisp ocean air as you explore rugged beaches and dramatic overlooks. Each day is thoughtfully curated to showcase the natural wonders of the region without the hassle of constant packing or long drives.

 Between hikes, you’ll savor tastings at small, locally loved wineries and enjoy time to relax by the sea or gather with your fellow travelers for a shared meal. From Fern Canyon’s fern-draped walls to the quiet majesty of Avenue of the Giants, this trip balances active adventures with moments of peaceful reflection and connection. Whether you’re chasing fog through the forest or watching the sunset over the waves, this is a journey that reconnects you with nature—and yourself—in one of California’s most awe-inspiring landscapes.

Important Notes

Activity Level – Moderate

This trip offers a moderate level of physical activity, ideal for travelers who enjoy staying active but don’t want anything too intense. The itinerary includes several hikes ranging from easy coastal walks to moderate forest trails, with options like the Fern Canyon loop or Founders Grove that involve some uneven terrain, roots, and gentle elevation changes. Most hikes are 1–10 miles round-trip and can be adjusted based on the group’s energy and preferences. Optional activities like wine tasting, beach strolls, and exploring small towns offer plenty of downtime to balance out the adventure. Overall, the trip is well-suited for active adults with a basic level of fitness and a love for nature.

Weather

September is an ideal time to visit the redwood region of Northern California, with mild, pleasant weather and minimal rainfall. Daytime temperatures typically range from the low 60s to low 70s Fahrenheit, while evenings and mornings can be cool, dipping into the mid-40s to low 50s. Coastal areas like Trinidad often experience morning fog that usually clears by midday, revealing sunny skies and crisp ocean air. Inland redwood forests stay slightly cooler and shaded, making them perfect for hiking. Overall, the weather is stable, comfortable, and great for outdoor adventures.

Are you ready to embark on a journey of a lifetime?

Sneak Peek Trip Details

Cava Misericordi
Day 1 - Arrive in Eureka

Sept 9 – Ocean Welcome and Group Dinner

Your adventure begins with a scenic arrival into Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV), just a short drive from your home base in the coastal town of Trinidad. After settling in, we’ll kick off the trip with a relaxing walk along the rugged Trinidad Head Trail, offering sweeping views of the Pacific and rocky sea stacks below. It’s a perfect introduction to the raw beauty of Northern California’s coast.

In the evening, gather with your group for a welcome dinner featuring local flavors and warm conversation. We’ll toast to the days ahead and soak in the salty air as the sun dips into the sea. With no need to repack each day, you can truly settle in and savor the stillness of your surroundings.

Accommodations: Hotel near Trinidad, CA
Meals: Welcome Dinner 

Day 2-Redwoods

Sept 10 – Hike James Irvine Trail & Fern Canyon

Today, we head north to Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, home to some of the tallest and most ancient trees on Earth. We’ll hike among these silent giants along accessible trails like the Karl Knapp loop or Big Tree Wayside before continuing to one of the trip’s most iconic spots: James Irvine Trail & Fern Canyon. With its mossy, fern-draped walls and trickling creek, this surreal canyon feels like stepping into another world (or a scene from Jurassic Park).

 After our forest adventures, we’ll enjoy a picnic lunch and keep an eye out for Roosevelt elk, who often graze nearby. The afternoon offers options for a short beach walk along Gold Bluffs Beach or a return to town for downtime. Dinner tonight is relaxed—perhaps a cozy seafood restaurant or a casual group meal back at the lodging.

Hiking: James Irvine Trail, 8 Miles, 5 Hours, Short 0.2 Miles to Fern Canyon
Accommodations: Hotel near Trinidad, CA
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks

Arrive Catania
Cava Misericordi
Day 3-More Redwoods

Sept 11 – Avenue of the Giants, Founders Grove, Ferndale Lunch

We take a scenic drive south today to Humboldt Redwoods State Park and the legendary Avenue of the Giants. This winding, two-lane road meanders through some of the most jaw-dropping groves of old-growth redwoods in the world. We’ll make stops along the way for short hikes, photo ops, and a walk through the Founders Grove, where you’ll stand at the base of trees hundreds of feet tall.

After exploring the forest, we’ll enjoy lunch in a charming nearby town like Ferndale or grab sandwiches for a forest picnic. The drive back hugs the Eel River and redwood-covered hills—perfect for reflection or simply gazing out the window in awe. The evening is free for relaxation, optional journaling, or a sunset walk on Trinidad State Beach.

Hiking: A variety of short hikes totaling 4 miles
Accommodations: Hotel neat Trinidad, CA
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks

Day 4 - Wine & Hike

Sept 12 – Winery Visit & Tasting, Sue-Meg State Park

Today is a gentler pace with a local twist. We’ll visit one or two boutique wineries in the region where you can enjoy tastings of cool-climate varietals in laid-back, scenic settings. Learn about Northern California’s small-scale wine culture and enjoy a leisurely afternoon among the vines.

 Later, we’ll explore Sue-meg State Park, a stunning coastal bluff-top park with ocean views, Native American history, and peaceful forested trails. The final evening is a celebration of the week—whether that’s a beachfront bonfire, a special group dinner, or simply sharing stories under the stars.

 Hiking: Coastal trail in Sue-Meg NP, 3.2 miles, 1.5 hours

Accommodation: Hotel near Trinidad, CA
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks

Ragusa to Noto
Cava Misericordi
Day 5-Departures

Sept 13 – Say Goodbye to Redwood Country

Our final morning invites you to take it slow. Sip coffee on the deck, take a last solo walk along the beach, or revisit your favorite Trinidad spot one more time. If time allows, we may squeeze in one more easy hike or stop at a local café before transferring to ACV for departures.

Though it’s time to head home, the peace of the redwoods and rhythm of the waves will linger. You’ll leave feeling grounded, inspired, and deeply connected—to nature, and to each other.

 Meals: Breakfast

Let’s Make This Journey Yours

What’s included

Lodging

4 nights in Trinidad, CA in a hotel

Ground Transportation

Trip will begin and end in Eureka, CA; all transportation between leaving the airport and arriving back at the airport is included

Meals

All meals included (4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 4 dinners, snacks). Combination of eating in restaurants and meals made by your guide

Excursions / Park Fees

Park entrance fees

Chicas Abroad Swag

Commemorative Chicas Abroad swag included for you to enjoy during and after the adventure

Lifelong Memories

Freedom to enjoy your vacation and mindlessly wander, as well as make lifelong memories and new friends!

What’s not included

Flights

Arrive in Eureka, CA (ACV) on Wednesday, September 9th by 3:00pm; depart Eureka on Sunday, September 13th after 2:00pm

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is highly recommend to cover any unforeseen events. Chicas Abroad will provide you with a link to our recommended carrier upon booking, but you may choose any carrier.

Alcoholic Beverages

Alcoholic drinks are at your own expense

Chicas Abroad Leader Tip

If you’ve had an exceptional experience, a typical gratuity for a trip of this length ranges from $200–$250.

Reviews

What a fabulous trip to Greece and the islands of Santorini and Mykonos! This is my second trip with Chicas Abroad and both trips have been stellar. Last year I hiked the Camino De Santiago trail with the Chicas and had a blast. The hotels are top of the line. You won’t be disappointed. I love that everything is arranged for you and all you have to do is enjoy! No stress on vacation as Melanie and her trip leaders take care of everything. The activities and tours are carefully chosen and all have been fabulous. And you get to make new friends with your fellow travelers. If you are looking for a tour company that is top of the line, check out ChicasAbroad.com for all of their fabulous trips! I am already looking forward to my next trip with the Chicas!

5
By Patricia M for Greece Adventure on May 20, 2024

Just returned from 8 days in Greece with Chicas Abroad! What an amazing trip. From Athens to Santorini to Mykonos back to Athens. From the time I landed until the time I left I didn’t have to think about a thing. Everything was thoughtfully planned, including free time to explore and to see all of the relevant sights. It was a dream vacation. I have met wonderful ladies from all across the country, whom I will remain friends with for years to come. Melanie and Kathy were the most excellent Chicas guides! I loved every single minute. Can’t wait for the next adventure!

5
By Kristen H for Greece Adventure on May 26, 2024

Melanie and Kathy did a wonderful job organizing our trip. All events flowed smoothly and we saw some amazing sites. I got to know some fantastic women and look forward to seeing them again on some of my future trips with Chica’s Abroad!

5
By Kristi B for Greece Adventure on May 29, 2024

I traveled to Greece with 2 friends from my hometown and we had a wonderful time. However, the Chicas Abroad leaders, Melanie and Kathy had all the details planned extremely well and everyone was so nice that I would not hesitate to take another Chicas’ trip on my own. What a confidence booster! It was a super experience all the way around. Great job ladies!

5
By Kim E for Greece Adventure on Jun 10, 2024

This was my first trip with the Chicas. It will not be my last! The accommodations were top notch. The activity level was very active, we truly had great adventure. I learned so much thru the people I met. There was a real sence of belonging. The guides were incredibly knowledgeable and fun as well. I started out with strangers but gained a new group of strong friends with these ladies. It was an unforgettable experience.

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This trip felt “intimate” and very cultural. I enjoyed meeting meeting the food artisans in their shops (pasta, chocolate, dairy). The chefs and owners of several restaurants came to our table to welcome us, and will always remember dinner at Monica’s family home.

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By Linda M for Northern Italy Food & Wine Adventure on Jul 03, 2024

We could not have had the experience we had without your assistance. From the driver who picked us up from the airport to the driver of the 55 passenger bus the drivers were amazing. Having a guide for every excursion/tour was a must. Our tickets were ready, no lines to wait in, and having a knowledgeable guide was so appreciated!!! We were able to see everything we hoped to. Our time in Grimaldi was so special…we didn’t know what to expect. The people of Grimaldi were so kind and made us feel very welcomed. A trip of a lifetime that we were able to experience as a family🇮🇹❤️

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Absolutely beautiful beyond words! Inspiring women, trip details were well organized, a lot of fun, laughter and smiles.
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My niece and I went on this trip together and the memories and experiences we gained are something I will always cherish. The trip was perfectly planned, the group was full of kind and fun women, and the itinerary was challenging while also safe and enjoyable. I will definitely be checking back in to book a future Chicas Abroad trip!

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AmaziAmazing experience and a fantastic adventure. It was a six star trip! Definitely looking forward to the next one. Sarah S.ng experience and a fantastic adventure. It was a six star trip! Definitely looking forward to the next one. Sarah S.

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