The Best Weekend Itinerary for Klamath, California

Looking for a weekend getaway that mixes towering redwoods, Native American history, and peaceful river views? Northern California’s Klamath area is your spot. Just about a 6-hour drive north of San Francisco, this little town sits in the heart of Redwood National and State Parks—home to some of the tallest trees on earth.

What makes Klamath extra special is its setting on the Yurok reservation, where you can experience the culture and traditions of the largest Native American tribe in California, while also enjoying outdoor adventures you can’t find anywhere else. From scenic overlooks to redwood canoe rides to charming local restaurants, this is one of those places that feels both peaceful and adventurous at the same time. And the perfect place for a weekend getaway.

Want Quick Details? Here’s a snapshot of a perfect weekend itinerary:

Friday

• Check into the Historic Requa Inn
• Visit the Yurok Country Visitor Center
• Walk the Yurok Discovery Village 
• Drive through the Klamath Tour Thru Tree
• Dinner at Tradish
• Get the view at the Klamath Overlook 

Saturday

• Breakfast at the Historic Requa Inn
• Grab a sandwich at Woodland Villa
• Take a Hike in the Redwood National & State Parks 
• See the elks
• Take a Redwood Canoe Ride with the Yurok
• Dinner at Seaquake or Kin Khao

Sunday

• Breakfast at the Historic Requa Inn
• Experience the Trees of Mystery
• Visit the End of the Trail Museum
• Head home

Here’s my video of this itinerary:

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Where to Stay

Historic Requa Inn ($$$)

If you’re heading to Northern California’s Redwood National & State Parks, the Historic Requa Inn is the perfect place to stay. Built in 1914 on the Yurok reservation, it’s perched above the Klamath River with incredible views and a cozy, old-world feel—yet it still has all the modern comforts you want.

Every room is decorated differently (and they’re all adorable!), with antique furnishings and comfy beds that just might tempt you into sleeping in late. 

After a day of adventure, the inn’s lounge is the ultimate relaxation spot—curl up with a book by the fireplace, sip a glass of wine, or nibble on the homemade cookies they often set out in the evenings. On one of my nights there, they were pouring complimentary port, which made it feel extra special.

Outside, you can wander across the street to their hammocks and gazebo for a peaceful moment overlooking the river. And with its location right in the heart of the parks, you’re perfectly positioned for exploring trails, spotting elk, or even heading to Crescent City for more dining options.

Breakfast here is the kind you’ll look forward to waking up for. Guests (myself included!) rave about the fluffy pancakes, biscuits with sausage gravy, and scrambled eggs made with local Rumiano cheese. ➞ Check the best pricing

Here’s a peek at what you’re in store for:

Here are some other great hotel options:

• View Crest Lodge ($$) — a relaxing and rustic retreat 
• Trinidad Inn ($$$) — a coastal retreat in the Redwood National Forest

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Things to Do in the Klamath Area

South of Klamath

Hike at Redwood National and State Parks

You can’t come to Klamath without lacing up your hiking boots. Redwood National and State Parks are just minutes away, with trails that get you up close and personal with these giants. Two of my favorites are Trillium Falls Trail and the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail.

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Trillium Falls Trail
The Trillium Falls Trail is a 2.7-mile loop that’s family-friendly but moderately challenging thanks to steady climbs and rooty paths (so watch your step!). Starting at the Elk Meadow Day Use Area—with restrooms, water, picnic tables, and plenty of parking—it’s also a great spot to see Roosevelt elk grazing nearby. 

Just half a mile in, you’ll reach the namesake falls, a pretty little cascade that makes a perfect stopping point, if you want a shorter hike. Continue the loop and you’ll wander past towering “chimney trees,” lush ferns, and old-growth redwoods. 

We grabbed sandwiches from Woodland Villa and had a picnic afterward—it was the perfect way to end the hike.

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Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail

If you want an easy but oh-so-beautiful introduction to the redwoods, this 1.5-mile loop is perfect. The trail winds along a ridge where redwoods share space with Douglas-fir, maples, and a lush mix of understory plants—since these higher slopes are a little less sheltered, the forest feels more open and airy than the dense valley groves. 

It’s also a little piece of history: Lady Bird Johnson first visited here in 1968 to help dedicate Redwood National Park, and a year later President Nixon named this grove in her honor for her work in protecting America’s natural beauty. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for quirky locals like banana slugs (we spotted one!) and, if you’re lucky, rhododendrons blooming in late spring.

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See the Elks

Just north of Davison Road along Highway 101, you might spot a herd of Roosevelt elk lounging in the meadow. They’re wild, so sightings aren’t guaranteed, but I’ve seen them every time I’ve driven by. Bring your camera—you’ll want it!

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In Klamath

Drive Through Klamath Tour Thru Tree

There are only three drive-through trees left in California, and the Klamath Tour Thru Tree is one of them! It’s a quirky, quick stop, but so much fun. The $5 fee is on the honor system if there’s no attendant, and since it wasn’t crowded when we went, we drove through twice (just because we could). It’s a snug fit—our Jeep Wrangler had about six inches to spare on either side—so larger vehicles beware.

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See the Klamath River Overlook

The Klamath River Overlook shows the exact spot where the Klamath River meets the Pacific Ocean, separated by a long sandbar. It’s especially gorgeous at sunset, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot migrating whales offshore.

The trail down from the parking lot is short but steep, so I didn’t go too far since it was getting dark. But honestly, the view from the parking lot alone is worth it. 

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Go to the Yurok Country Visitor Center

Located in the Klamath townsite, the Yurok Country Visitor Center is a must for learning about the Yurok people, who have lived along this river since the beginning of time. There’s a gift shop, exhibits, and even an outdoor amphitheater with seasonal events in summer. It’s small but powerful in helping you understand the deep cultural roots of this area.

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Explore the Yurok Discovery Village

Right across the street from the Visitor Center, you’ll find a short path leading to the Yurok Discovery Village, a replica Yurok village. It includes a redwood plank house, a traditional men’s sweat house, and an outdoor cooking pit. It’s a quick stop, but fascinating—especially when you notice the round doors, which we learned were designed to keep bears out.

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Take a Redwood Dugout Canoe Ride

This was one of the highlights of my trip—gliding down the Klamath River in a 600-pound redwood dugout canoe, carved from a single log, while hearing stories directly from Yurok guides. Our canoe, built in 1968, is expected to last up to 300 years if cared for—a true piece of history.

On our two-hour ride, we spotted a black bear along the shore, egrets, herons, even a bat skimming the water. Beyond the wildlife, though, it was the storytelling that made the experience unforgettable. These canoes aren’t just boats—they’re a living connection to Yurok culture. 

You can book tours online or at the Visitor Center.

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See the Yurok Ceremonial Grounds

This sacred area on the Yurok reservation, still used for traditional ceremonies, leads down to a wild stretch of beach at the mouth of the Klamath River. Known locally as Dad’s Camp and privately owned by the Williams family, the beach itself is private property—so please be respectful if you visit. From the bluff and surrounding areas, you might catch sight of whales, seals, and fishermen, or simply soak in the rugged beauty of the coastline.

To Get There: Exit Highway 101 at Klamath Beach Rd (#768) and turn left. Follow Klamath Beach Road toward Coastal Drive until you spot a gate on the right. You’ll usually see cars parked nearby—park there and continue on foot.

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North of Klamath

Visit Trees of Mystery

If you’re driving along Highway 101 through the Redwoods, you literally cannot miss the Trees of Mystery—because standing out front is a 49-foot Paul Bunyan and his 35-foot buddy, Babe the Blue Ox. Total roadside Americana.

Now, I’ll admit… from the outside, I thought this was going to be pure tourist trap. But once I got inside? Totally worth it. You start with a walk through gorgeous redwoods (some of them shaped so uniquely they’ve been given names). Then you climb onto suspension bridges that swing you 50–100 feet up in the canopy. And if that’s not enough, you can take the SkyTrail gondola to soar above it all.

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End of the Trail Museum (at Trees of Mystery)

Inside the Trees of Mystery complex, you’ll find this museum tucked behind the gift shop—and it’s free to enter. It houses the Marylee Thompson Smith collection, which is one of the best privately held collections of Native American artifacts in the world.

From baskets and beadwork to ceremonial pieces, it’s such an eye-opening way to connect with the Indigenous history of the region. I wasn’t expecting much from a “museum inside a tourist attraction,” but this one blew me away.

Even if you skip the Trees of Mystery, still make a stop by the museum—it’s impressive.

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Hike Grove of the Titans at Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park

If you’re want a true “wow” redwood hike, the Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park is where you’ll find it. One of the highlights here is the Grove of Titans Trail.

This short, 1.7-mile hike takes you through some of the largest redwoods in the world—these giants are massive in both height and volume. The grove itself is tucked away in a quiet glen with a little creek running through it, so it feels extra lush and magical.

For years, people went off-trail to climb around the trees, which sadly damaged the fragile ecosystem. But in 2021, the park built an elevated boardwalk that winds through the grove, protecting the forest floor while still letting you get up close to the Titans.

It’s a relatively easy hike, but super popular (thank you, social media). My tip? Go early in the morning or late in the day for a more peaceful experience.

Places to Eat in Klamath (& Nearby)

Historic Requa Inn (Requa)

Breakfast at the Historic Requa Inn is exactly what you want before heading out to hike or explore. If you’re a pancake lover, you have to try theirs—fluffy and just the right amount of sweet. Many people rave about the biscuits and gravy, but I personally loved their homemade granola with yogurt and fresh fruit. Oh, and don’t skip the scrambled eggs—they use local Rumiano cheese and it makes all the difference.

During the season, they also serve dinner on weekends, which makes staying here extra convenient.

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TraDish (Klamath)

This one’s a bit quirky—in the evenings, the family that runs TraDish takes over the Log Cabin Breakfast Express and transforms it into a cozy dinner spot. It’s casual (think diner-style) but the food feels like something your mom would cook if she was an amazing chef.

I ordered the smoked chicken with veggies and mashed potatoes, and it was total comfort food. Plus, they surprised me with a pretty decent glass of Merlot! Portions are big, prices are reasonable, and the whole place feels warm and welcoming. And the random bonus? They have a couple of emus wandering around outside—yes, actual emus!

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Woodland Villa (Klamath)

Woodland Villa is the perfect stop if you’re grabbing something to take on a hike. Their sandwiches are huge—I had the roast beef stacked high with all the fixings, and it hit the spot after a long Redwood trail day. Simple, satisfying, and exactly what you want in your backpack.

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Willow Line Taproom (Klamath)

If you’re in the mood for craft beer and comfort food, Willow Line Taproom is your spot. Think pulled pork sandwiches, nachos, and casual pub vibes. They’ve got a good beer list and even a few desserts if you’ve got a sweet tooth.

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SeaQuake Brewing (Crescent City)

SeaQuake Brewing is always buzzing with energy, and for good reason. They brew their own beer (plus kombucha for the non-beer drinkers), and the menu is stacked—brick oven pizzas, grass-fed burgers, cheese curds (yep, they’re famous for those), and some solid seafood options.

My personal favorite? Their Thai Chicken Salad.

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Kin Khao Thai Eatery (Crescent City)

Honestly, this place was such a surprise. Crescent City isn’t exactly known for its food scene, but Kin Khao Thai Eatery  could hold its own anywhere. The flavors are fresh and bold, and they have tons of vegan and vegetarian options.

We ordered the Eggplant Stir Fry with Tofu (eggplant, chili jam, curry seasoning, basil, all the good stuff) plus a traditional Som Tum Thai papaya salad. Every bite was amazing. Casual setting, but the food feels way more elevated than you’d expect.

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SeaFront Baking Company  (Crescent City)

If you’re a carb lover like me, do not skip SeaFront Baking Company. It’s part bakery, part café, part pizzeria—and everything is made with so much care. From their artisan bread and sandwiches to their pastries, it all tastes homemade in the best way.

I love that it’s family-run, and you can tell they’ve poured their hearts (and generations of recipes) into the place. Perfect stop for breakfast or a quick lunch.

Quick Note: there is little to no cell service in the area,  but the inn and most restaurants will have it.

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