Planning a trip to Redwood National Park? The closest airport to Redwood National Park is Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV), but there are other options with more flights and better prices. This article explores the best airports to fly into for Redwood National Park, covering distances, airlines, transportation, and key travel considerations to help you choose the best option.
Primary Airport Options
Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV)
Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV) is the closest major airport to Redwood National and State Parks, making it a convenient option for visitors. Located in McKinleyville, California, ACV is approximately 40 miles south of the park, with an estimated drive time of about one hour.
Airlines and Routes
ACV is a regional airport served by major airlines, including United Airlines and Avelo Airlines, offering direct flights from cities such as San Francisco (SFO), Denver (DEN), and Los Angeles (LAX). Due to limited flight options, travelers should book in advance to secure the best routes and fares.
Ground Transportation
Car rental services are available at the airport, making it easy for visitors to continue their journey to the park. Additionally, airport shuttle services and local taxis provide alternative transportation options for those who do not wish to rent a car.
Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR)
Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR) is another viable option for travelers visiting Redwood National Park. Located in Medford, Oregon, MFR is approximately 100 miles northeast of the park, with a drive time of about two and a half hours.
Regional Connectivity
MFR offers a broader range of flight options than ACV, with service from major carriers such as Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and American Airlines. Direct flights are available from major hubs, including Seattle (SEA), Portland (PDX), and Phoenix (PHX), making it a good choice for travelers coming from the Pacific Northwest and beyond.
Travel Considerations
While MFR is farther from the park compared to ACV, it provides additional flight options and competitive pricing. Visitors choosing this airport should be prepared for a longer drive but may benefit from lower airfare and more frequent flight availability.
Crescent City Airport (CEC)
For those looking for an even closer option, Del Norte County Regional Airport (CEC) in Crescent City, California, is the nearest airport to the northern section of Redwood National and State Parks. Located about 30 miles from the park, it is the shortest drive among the available airport options.
Limited Service Considerations
CEC is a small regional airport with limited flights, primarily operated by Contour Airlines with routes to and from Oakland (OAK). Due to its restricted flight schedule, travelers may need to plan their itinerary carefully or consider alternative airports with greater availability.
Proximity Advantages
Despite its limited service, CEC offers the advantage of being the closest airport to the park, reducing overall travel time. Rental car services are available on-site, providing a convenient way to reach the park quickly.
Major Hub Options
Sacramento International Airport (SMF)
Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is a major airport located approximately 300 miles southeast of Redwood National Park. While significantly farther than other options, SMF provides a wide range of domestic and international flights, making it a good choice for travelers seeking more airline and schedule flexibility.
- Flight Availability: SMF is served by major carriers, including Southwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and American Airlines, with nonstop flights from numerous cities across the U.S.
- Ground Transportation: Rental cars are readily available, and the drive to the park takes approximately five to six hours via scenic routes through Northern California.
San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) serves as an international gateway and is one of the largest airports in California. While it is about 350 miles south of Redwood National Park, it offers the most flight options for travelers coming from around the world.
- Comprehensive Travel Services: As a major hub, SFO provides extensive domestic and international flight options, along with numerous rental car agencies, shuttles, and public transportation links.
- Extended Drive Time: The journey from SFO to Redwood National Park takes approximately six to seven hours, making it a less convenient choice for those looking to minimize travel time. However, it may be ideal for visitors planning to explore additional destinations along California’s coast.
By selecting the right airport based on travel preferences, budget, and itinerary, visitors can ensure a smooth and efficient journey to Redwood National and State Parks.
Alternative Airport Choices
While Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV) is the closest major airport to Redwood National and State Parks, travelers may find that alternative airports better suit their needs based on cost, flight availability, or ground transportation options. Below are several alternative airport choices that provide viable entry points to the region.
Crescent City Airport (CEC)
Crescent City Airport, also known as Del Norte County Regional Airport, is a smaller regional airport that serves as a convenient alternative for those looking to access the northern parts of the park.
- Location: Crescent City, CA (approximately 30 miles north of some Redwood National Park sites)
- Airlines: Boutique Air offers limited regional flights, primarily connecting to Portland and Oakland.
- Advantages: Shorter drive times to northern park locations and less crowded airport facilities.
- Considerations: Limited flight availability and fewer rental car options compared to larger airports.
Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR)
Located in southern Oregon, Medford’s Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport provides another alternative for travelers who may find better flight options or pricing compared to California airports.
- Location: Medford, OR (about 110 miles northeast of the park)
- Airlines: Alaska Airlines, United, Delta, and American Airlines offer flights to major West Coast hubs.
- Advantages: More flight options than smaller regional airports and a reasonable drive through scenic routes.
- Considerations: Longer drive time to the park compared to Arcata-Eureka or Crescent City.
Sacramento International Airport (SMF)
Sacramento International Airport is a viable option for those looking for more flight availability while still being within a reasonable driving distance from the park.
- Location: Sacramento, CA (approximately 300 miles from Redwood National Park)
- Airlines: Serves numerous domestic and international flights with major carriers.
- Advantages: More affordable airfare, extensive rental car availability, and access to major highways leading to the park.
- Considerations: A significantly longer drive (about 5-6 hours), requiring careful trip planning.
San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
As a major international hub, San Francisco International Airport offers a vast selection of flights and services but requires a longer journey to reach the park.
- Location: San Francisco, CA (approximately 320 miles from the park)
- Airlines: Nearly all major domestic and international carriers operate from SFO.
- Advantages: Ideal for international travelers, wide range of flight options, and access to extensive ground transportation.
- Considerations: Long drive (6-7 hours), potential traffic congestion, and higher costs for car rentals and fuel.
Portland International Airport (PDX)
For travelers coming from northern regions, Portland International Airport can serve as a gateway to Redwood National Park with a scenic drive down the Oregon coast.
- Location: Portland, OR (approximately 360 miles north of the park)
- Airlines: Major airlines with domestic and international flights, including Southwest, Delta, and Alaska Airlines.
- Advantages: Affordable flights, excellent airport amenities, and a stunning coastal drive via Highway 101.
- Considerations: The longest drive among alternative options (7-8 hours), making it less convenient for short visits.
Choosing the Best Alternative Airport
When selecting an alternative airport, consider factors such as flight availability, rental car access, budget, and the overall time required to reach the park. Crescent City and Medford offer closer access, while Sacramento, San Francisco, and Portland provide more flight options at the expense of longer drive times. Travelers should weigh these factors carefully to optimize their journey to Redwood National and State Parks.
Transportation from Airports
When visiting Redwood National and State Parks, selecting the right airport and planning ground transportation in advance is crucial for a smooth journey. Several airport options serve the region, each offering different advantages based on proximity, flight availability, and transportation choices.
Closest Airports to Redwood National and State Parks
Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV)
Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV) is the nearest commercial airport to Redwood National and State Parks, located in McKinleyville, California. It is approximately 40 miles south of the park and provides the most convenient access for travelers.
- Airlines and Routes: ACV is primarily served by United Airlines and Avelo Airlines, offering flights from San Francisco (SFO), Denver (DEN), and Los Angeles (LAX).
- Ground Transportation: Rental car services are available at the airport, and taxis or rideshare options (such as Uber and Lyft) may also be accessible. Public transit via Redwood Transit System (RTS) offers limited service to regional destinations.
Del Norte County Regional Airport (CEC) – Crescent City
Located in Crescent City, California, Del Norte County Regional Airport (CEC) is another viable option, particularly for those visiting the northern sections of the park. It sits about 20 miles from Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, making it a convenient choice for travelers focusing on that area.
- Airlines and Routes: CEC is served by Contour Airlines, offering limited flights to and from Oakland (OAK).
- Ground Transportation: Rental cars are available at the airport, though public transportation options are limited. Visitors may need to arrange for a rental vehicle or private shuttle service.
Major Regional Airports
For travelers seeking more airline options and competitive fares, larger regional airports may be preferable, though they require additional driving time to reach the park.
Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR)
Located in Medford, Oregon, Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR) is about 100 miles northeast of the park. While farther than ACV or CEC, it offers a broader selection of flights.
- Airlines and Routes: Serves major airlines, including Alaska Airlines, Delta, United, and American Airlines, with connections from cities such as Seattle (SEA), Portland (PDX), and Phoenix (PHX).
- Ground Transportation: Rental cars are readily available, and the drive to the park follows U.S. Highway 199, a scenic route through Oregon and Northern California.
Sacramento International Airport (SMF)
For those flying from farther destinations, Sacramento International Airport (SMF) offers a major hub within California. It is about 300 miles southeast of the park.
- Airlines and Routes: SMF provides numerous flight options from domestic and international locations.
- Ground Transportation: Rental cars are available, but public transportation to the park is not practical. The drive follows Interstate 5 north before connecting to U.S. Highway 101.
San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
For international travelers and those seeking extensive flight options, San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is another major hub. However, it is over 320 miles south of the park, requiring a long drive or additional connecting flights.
- Airlines and Routes: SFO serves nearly all major airlines with domestic and international flights.
- Ground Transportation: Visitors can rent a car and take U.S. Highway 101 north, a scenic coastal route that takes approximately six to seven hours to reach the park.
Ground Transportation from Airports to the Park
Regardless of the chosen airport, visitors will need to arrange ground transportation to reach Redwood National and State Parks. Here are the main options:
Rental Cars
Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the parks, as public transportation options are limited. Most airports offer on-site rental car services, making it easy to pick up a vehicle and drive to the park.
Rideshare and Taxis
While Uber and Lyft may be available at some airports (especially ACV and MFR), they are not reliable for longer-distance travel to the park. Taxis may also be an option but can be expensive for such long distances.
Public Transit
- Redwood Transit System (RTS): Limited public bus service operates in the Humboldt County region, but it does not provide direct access to the parks.
- Greyhound and Amtrak: While Greyhound and Amtrak serve nearby cities such as Eureka, they do not provide direct service to the park itself. Additional transportation will be required.
Choosing the Best Airport for Your Trip
The best airport depends on your itinerary, budget, and travel preferences:
- For the shortest drive and convenience: Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV) is ideal.
- For travelers focusing on the northern park areas: Crescent City Airport (CEC) is the best choice.
- For more flight options and competitive fares: Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR) is a good alternative.
- For international travelers or those seeking major hubs: Sacramento (SMF) or San Francisco (SFO) provide the most flight availability but require longer drives.
Planning ahead and selecting the right airport can make your journey to Redwood National and State Parks smoother and more enjoyable.
Planning Considerations
Seasonal Availability of Flights
When planning your trip to Redwood National Park, it's essential to consider the seasonal availability of flights. Some regional airports, such as Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV) and Crescent City Airport (CEC), may offer fewer flights during off-peak travel seasons. If you’re traveling during the winter months, be sure to check for potential service reductions or schedule changes well in advance.
Ground Transportation Options
After selecting an airport, consider how you will reach the park from your arrival point. Rental car services are available at major airports, including San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Sacramento International Airport (SMF), offering flexibility for self-guided travel. If you prefer not to drive, shuttle services and rideshare options may be available from regional airports like Arcata-Eureka Airport. Public transportation is limited in the Redwood National Park area, so securing a reliable transportation method is crucial.
Cost Comparisons Between Airports
Flight prices can vary significantly depending on the airport you choose. Larger airports like SFO and SMF often provide more competitive airfare due to higher traffic volume and broader airline options. However, choosing a closer regional airport, such as ACV or CEC, may reduce total travel costs when factoring in rental car expenses and fuel. It’s advisable to compare flight and ground transportation costs holistically to determine the most budget-friendly option.
Travel Time Trade-Offs
While flying into a major airport can sometimes offer cheaper tickets, it often results in longer travel times to reach Redwood National Park. For example, a flight into SFO may require an additional 5-6 hours of driving, whereas flying into ACV significantly shortens travel time. Travelers must weigh the benefits of potentially lower airfare against the added commute duration.
Airport Selection Factors
Budget Considerations
For travelers on a budget, selecting an airport with affordable flights and economical transportation options is key. San Francisco International Airport often features lower airfares but requires additional travel time and transportation costs.
Time Constraints
If minimizing travel time is a priority, choosing Arcata-Eureka Airport or Crescent City Airport ensures quicker access to the park. However, these airports may have limited flight schedules, necessitating advanced booking.
Airline Preferences
Certain airlines only operate at specific airports, which may influence your decision based on loyalty programs, baggage policies, or preferred carriers. Checking flight availability from different airports can help you align your travel plans with your preferred airline.
Ground Transportation Needs
If you plan to rely on public transit or shuttles, selecting an airport with accessible transportation services is crucial. Arcata-Eureka Airport provides better proximity to rental car services and limited shuttle options, whereas larger airports may require longer commutes via rental cars or buses.
By carefully considering these planning factors, travelers can optimize their journey to Redwood National Park, ensuring a smooth and efficient travel experience.
Making Your Choice
When selecting the best airport for accessing Redwood National and State Parks, several factors should be considered, including distance, travel time, transportation options, and budget. Below, we break down key aspects to help you make the best decision for your trip.
Proximity and Travel Time
The closest airport to Redwood National Park is Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV), located approximately 40 miles south of the park. This is the most convenient option for those looking to minimize drive time. Crescent City Airport (CEC) is another nearby choice, especially for travelers heading toward the northern sections of the park.
For those willing to drive longer distances, larger airports such as Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR), Sacramento International Airport (SMF), and San Francisco International Airport (SFO) provide more flight options and competitive pricing but require extended travel times to reach the park.
Ground Transportation Availability
Rental car availability is essential when choosing an airport. ACV and CEC offer rental car services, but options may be limited. Larger airports like SFO and SMF provide a wider selection of rental agencies, often at more competitive rates. If you plan to rely on public transportation, note that options are limited in the Redwood National Park region, making a rental car the most practical choice.
Budget Considerations
Flight costs can vary significantly depending on the airport. While ACV and CEC offer the shortest travel times, flights to these smaller airports tend to be more expensive due to limited airline service. Larger hubs such as SFO and SMF generally provide more budget-friendly airfare but require additional expenses for rental cars and fuel for the longer drive to the park.
Seasonal and Weather Factors
Weather conditions can influence both flight availability and driving conditions. Coastal airports like ACV and CEC may experience more frequent fog and weather-related delays. If traveling during winter, be mindful of potential road closures or hazardous driving conditions when flying into inland airports like MFR.
Best Choice for Your Travel Needs
- For the shortest travel time: Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV) or Crescent City Airport (CEC)
- For the most flight options and affordability: San Francisco International Airport (SFO) or Sacramento International Airport (SMF)
- For a balance of convenience and cost: Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR)
By evaluating these factors, you can select the best airport for your trip to Redwood National and State Parks, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey to this stunning natural destination.
The best airport for visiting Redwood National Park depends on your budget, flight availability, and willingness to drive. Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV) is the closest, while larger hubs like SFO and SMF offer more flight options. Plan ahead, compare costs, and choose the airport that best fits your travel needs for a smooth and scenic journey to one of California’s most stunning destinations.