The park was originally logged extensively between 1845 and 1860 to provide lumber for the rapid growth of San Francisco and Oakland.
The current forest is composed of second-growth redwoods, some of which are now over 150 years old.
It is the only place in the East Bay Regional Park District that contains a native redwood forest.
The park is home to the last remaining stand of coast redwoods in the East Bay hills.
The canyon's microclimate is significantly cooler and more humid than the surrounding Oakland hills, supporting a unique ecosystem.
Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park preserves the largest remaining natural stand of coast redwood trees in the East Bay. The park spans 1,833 acres, primarily situated within a deep canyon characterized by steep topography and narrow ridges. It serves as a vital sanctuary for the Alameda whipsnake and the golden eagle. Visitors can traverse over 40 miles of trails that transition from dense redwood groves to open chaparral and grasslands. The park was renamed in 2019 to honor Dr. Aurelia Reinhardt, a notable educator and community leader. Elevation within the park ranges from approximately 500 to 1,600 feet above sea level. It is part of the East Bay Regional Park District system and functions as a secondary-growth forest following extensive logging in the 19th century.
The Starflower Trail, where the morning light filters through the dense redwood canopy.
Check the East Bay Regional Park District website for real-time trail closures due to seasonal rainfall.
Carry physical maps or download offline versions, as cellular reception is inconsistent throughout the canyon.
Wear moisture-wicking layers, as temperatures drop significantly once you descend into the shaded canyon floor.
Attempting to park at the Canyon Meadow staging area on sunny weekends once the lot hits capacity, which happens early.
Park gates may close during periods of extreme fire danger or high wind events; always verify status on the official EBRPD website.
Stay on marked trails to protect sensitive root systems; keep dogs on-leash in designated areas and leashed elsewhere; pack out all trash.
