Rare inland coast redwoods in a sheltered canyon, old-growth forest in Orange County foothills.
Carbon Canyon Regional Park preserves a small but genuine grove of coast redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens) in the inland Orange County foothills near Chino Hills. The redwoods take well to the canyon's microclimate, creating a forest ecosystem that feels entirely out of place in Southern California. A 1-mile trail loops through the grove.
Coast redwoods are iconic to Northern California, not Orange County. Seeing them growing 100+ miles south is a botanical and ecological anomaly. The old-growth canopy blocks direct sun, creating cool, moist conditions. The experience is genuine—you're standing among 100+ year old trees, not a manicured specimen collection.
Park at the main lot and follow the Redwood Trail. The hike is easy and short (1 mile), accessible for varied fitness levels. Bring a light jacket—the canyon floor is cool even in summer heat. Morning is best for light filtering through the canopy. Quiet time allows you to notice the detail: ferns, shade plants, the forest floor ecology.
The grove is small and takes 45 minutes to walk thoroughly. Crowds on weekends can diminish the forest experience. Parking is limited. Some hikers expect a larger redwood forest and are disappointed by the scale. The surrounding foothill landscape is dry chaparral, so the contrast is stark.
Go on a weekday morning when the grove is quiet and the light is filtered softly through the canopy.
Ethan Hauptli is a California-licensed REALTOR® (CA DRE #02191280) at Real Broker (CA DRE #02022092). This editorial content is published by Venture: Orange County and is not a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any specific property. Information is general and does not constitute real estate, legal, financial, or tax advice. Consult a qualified professional before making decisions.