Skip to main content
Elk River Trailhead
Nat'l Recreation Area

Elk River Trailhead

United States

Official sources & verification

Managed by National Recreation Area

Verify before you go

Source of truth

Managing agency

Verify by phone or mail

We display cached information from agency feeds. Hours, fees, permits, closures, fire restrictions, and conditions change without notice. Outdoors is not the permitting authority. Confirm current conditions for this park using the links above before you go — you are responsible for compliance. Last verified by us: May 20, 2026. Spot an error in our data?

About

Imported description
The first 3 miles follow a narrow stream corridor of public land that parallels the South Fork Elk River. The first mile is paved and accessible for those with limited mobility. Bicycles and dogs (under owner’s control) are allowed on the first 3 miles. The last 2 miles wind beneath a closed tree canopy, ending at a small old-growth redwood grove. Please stay on the trail to avoid trespassing and to protect the area’s natural resources. Distance: It is 5 miles to the old-growth and about a mile through the old growth loop, for a total 10.5-mile trip. Difficulty: The first 3 miles traverse moderate terrain adjacent to the river. The remaining 2 miles are moderately strenuous. Plan 1 to 2 hours for the first 3 miles, and 2 to 2.5 hours for the last 2 miles.  

Source: recreation.gov

Reviews

No reviews yet

Be the first to share your experience and help others plan their visit.

Hunting in this park

Hunting is generally prohibited in this National Park Service unit

Verify current park-specific rules with the National Park Service before planning any hunt. See NPS regulations

Spot an error in our data on Elk River Trailhead?