Trip Suggestion #6

Author

Moshe Levis
January 01, 2024

Happy New Year! Today’s email coming a bit late because… well… I also was out late. Just like, you?

Now, get ready to kickstart your 2024 with an epic photography adventure that’ll make your shutter finger itch with excitement! I’m talking about a 3-day journey through the heart of the majestic California Redwoods, starting January 5th. It’s going to be a blend of serene nature, awe-inspiring landscapes, and some good old-fashioned fun.

Table of Contents

🚗 Road Trip to The California Redwoods

Gear up for an awe-inspiring drive from Los Angeles (for me) to the towering forests of Northern California. It's a 650-mile journey packed with beautiful landscapes and hopefully great company.

  • From: Los Angeles, CA

  • To: The California Redwoods

  • Distance: Strap in for a scenic 15-hour drive covering about 950 miles. The journey is as beautiful as the destination!

🌞🌚 Sun & Moon Timings (Approximations for 12/29/23)

You'll be under the spell of a First Quarter moon, perfect for some dreamy night photography.

Sunrises at 7:30 AM and sunsets at 5:10 PM mean you're in for some stunning golden-hour photography.

  • Sunrise: 7:30 AM

    Sunset: 5:10 PM

    Moonrise: 11:15 AM

    Moonset: 12:00 AM (Midnight)

    Moon Phase: First Quarter

📍 Must-Visit Photo Spots

  1. Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park: Ancient redwoods and Smith River. Prepare to be dwarfed by ancient giants.

  2. Fern Canyon, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park: A lush, green paradise straight out of a fairytale.

  3. Avenue of the Giants, Humboldt Redwoods State Park: The iconic drive that’s a photographer’s dream.

📸 3 Possible Photos to Capture

  1. Sunbeams Through the Redwoods: Capture the ethereal morning light as it dances through the trees.

  2. Fern Canyon's Lush Walls: A wide-angle shot of the verdant, fern-covered canyon walls.

  3. Star Trails Over the Redwoods: Long exposure night photography capturing the movement of stars above the towering trees.

🌥️ Weather Check

Expect cool and possibly wet conditions with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 60°F. Rain is common in the winter months.

🚘 Getting Around

Renting a car (preferably an SUV for comfort and space) is recommended for flexibility in exploring different parks and locations.

🏨 Where to Stay

Historic Requa Inn (near Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park): Offers a cozy, rustic stay with beautiful river views.

Emerald Forest Cabins and RV (in Trinidad, near Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park): Charming cabins nestled in the forest

🎒 Gear Checklist

Don’t forget your camera essentials, folks – lenses, tripod, filters, and extra batteries are a must. And with the unpredictable weather, let’s pack waterproof gear to keep both you and your equipment dry and cozy.

  • DSLR or mirrorless camera

  • Wide-angle and telephoto lenses

  • Tripod for long exposures

  • Extra batteries and memory cards

  • Circular polarizer and ND filters

  • Waterproof camera bag

🍽️ Food Essentials

  • Portable snacks (nuts, energy bars)

  • Pre-packed meals for convenience

  • Reusable water bottles

  • Thermos for hot drinks

🧥 Clothing Must-Haves

  • Waterproof and layered clothing

  • Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots

  • Rain jacket and pants

  • Warm hat, gloves, and scarf

  • Extra socks

Day 1: Arrival Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park

  • 5:00 AM: The adventure begins! Depart from Los Angeles and head towards the enchanting forests of Northern California.

  • 4:00 PM: You've arrived! Check into the Historic Requa Inn, your cozy retreat amidst the giants.

  • 5:00 PM: Time for your first taste of redwood magic. Head out for some sunset photography in the park. Those rays through the trees? Pure bliss!

  • 7:00 PM: Wind down with dinner. Dream about the stunning shots you’ll capture tomorrow!

Day 2: Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

  • 6:00 AM: Rise and shine for sunrise photography in Jedediah Smith Redwoods. There's nothing like the peaceful morning light in these ancient woods.

  • 9:00 AM: Fuel up with breakfast, then it's off to Prairie Creek. The scenic drive is a photographer's delight!

  • 11:00 AM: Fern Canyon awaits you. This place is like a living green dream. Perfect for those lush, fern-filled shots.

  • 1:00 PM: Lunchtime. Reflect on your morning's adventure.

  • 2:00 PM: Afternoon hike and more photography. Explore the trails and let the redwoods inspire your lens.

  • 5:00 PM: Chase the golden hour for some epic sunset shots. The light, the trees, the magic!

  • 7:00 PM: Head back, dine, and relax. You’ve earned it after a full day of exploring!

Day 3: Avenue of the Giants

  • 6:00 AM: It's your last day, so make it count! Start early and drive to Humboldt Redwoods State Park.

  • 9:00 AM: Grab breakfast on the go. The anticipation for today’s shoot is real!

  • 10:00 AM: Avenue of the Giants - here you are! Get ready to capture the towering majesty of these incredible trees.

  • 1:00 PM: Pause for lunch and maybe a quick photo review.

  • 2:00 PM: Spend your afternoon immersed in the redwood splendor. Every turn is a new photo opportunity.

  • 5:00 PM: Last chance for those awe-inspiring sunset shots among the giants.

  • 7:00 PM: Time to head back to Los Angeles, with your heart and camera full of unforgettable redwood memories.

Can't wait to see the stunning images you'll capture in the California Redwoods! Remember, it's not just about the photos – it's about the journey, the experience, and the stories you'll tell. Happy shooting! 🌲📸🚗

Quick Tips for Capturing Stunning Images:

  1. Play with Light and Shadow: The Redwoods are known for their dramatic interplay of light and shadows. Early mornings or late afternoons are perfect for capturing sunbeams filtering through the trees, creating a mystical atmosphere.

  2. Look Up and Get Low: Don’t forget to shoot vertically. The towering height of the redwoods is best captured from a low angle. This perspective emphasizes their grandeur and can create a sense of awe in your photos.

  3. Incorporate a Sense of Scale: To convey the sheer size of the redwoods, include a familiar object or person in your frame. This contrast can provide a better sense of just how massive these trees are.

  4. Capture the Details: Along with the grand landscapes, focus on the smaller details like the patterns in the bark, the ferns on the forest floor, or the droplets of mist on spider webs. These macro shots can add variety to your photo collection.

  5. Use a Wide-Angle Lens: A wide-angle lens is your best friend in the dense forest. It allows you to capture the vastness of the scenery and the towering height of the trees.

Remember, the Redwoods offer a unique and serene environment. Take your time to explore and connect with nature. Each turn in the path can present a new photographic opportunity. Enjoy the journey and happy shooting! 📸🌲🌿Stay inspired and keep capturing those magical moments!

Best,
Moshe Levis