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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
45 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
5.1 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1-1.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Elk Prairie Trail

Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Elk Prairie Trail is a scenic adventure through meadowlands and redwood groves that offer a diversity of flora and fauna. Enjoy the sights of majestic Roosevelt elk grazing in the meadowlands as you hike—but make sure to keep your distance!

Route Description for Elk Prairie Trail

The Elk Prairie Trail is a popular nature walk in the Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. Family-friendly, easy-going, and impressively beautiful, this trek is one of our favorites.

Stimulating and scenic—what more could you ask for? Note the path is highly trafficked, so we encourage you to head out in the early morning to beat the crowds and the heat! Note elk are aggressive creatures, so if you do encounter one, be sure to maintain plenty of distance.

The Elk Prairie Hike follows the Prairie Creek Trail, setting out from the trailhead. Hiking north, you will soon divert west onto the Nature Trail and over Godwood Creek. This path will curve south, guiding you into a lush redwood grove, eventually merging onto the Redwood Access Trail. At the route’s end, hike through the Elk Prairie Campground and connect with the Elk Prairie Trail. This path will lead you out of the grove, intersecting with the Parkway, and into the meadowlands.

You will most likely notice several Roosevelt Elk frock through the fields by tracking through the Elk Viewing Area. Enjoy their beauty from a distance as you hike north, over Boyce Creek. Here you will confront an intersection, veer left, and you will be diverted onto the Cathedral Trees Trail. Follow this route back to the trailhead at the Visitors Center.

Getting to the Elk Prairie Trail Trailhead

The Elk Prairie Trailhead is located at the Prairie Creek Visitors Centre off Newton B. Drury Parkway.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    Elk Prairie Campground

  • When to do:

    Year-round

  • Pets allowed:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Circuit

Elk Prairie Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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