14 routes · Hiking
Big Trees Loop
See the "Giant Tree" in "the finest forest in the world."
Hiking Easy
- Distance
- 1.3 km
- Ascent
- 20 m
- Descent
- 20 m
- Duration
- 0-1 hrs
- Low Point
- 70 m
- High Point
- 87 m
- Gradient
- 2˚
The stunning beauty of this grove of redwoods led John D. Rockefeller to proclaim it the "finest forest in the world" and subsequently put up his own money to purchase and protect this natural wonder. Today, a plethora of trails run through Rockefeller Forest, forming hikes both short and long. This short loop offers hikers a quick dose of these incredible trees.
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Description
The unimaginatively-named "Big Trees Loop" runs past the signed "Giant Tree." Apparently, the foresters didn't think to consult the poets when naming these trees. Regardless of the ho-hum name, the Giant Tree is truly... giant.
The Giant Tree was measured in 1991, and at that time, it boasted a height of 363 feet, a circumference of 53.2 feet, and an average crown spread of 62 feet. And that was 30 years ago!
The trail itself is flat and smooth, allowing anybody to hike through this beautiful redwood grove. Despite the easiness of the hike, the scenery is well worth taking the time to complete the loop. If you want a longer, more challenging hike, continue onto any number of trails connecting to this short loop. Several of the trails begin climbing the nearby mountainsides, adding some elevation gain to the equation.
Difficulty
Easy
Walking along a well-kept trail that’s mostly flat. No obstacles are present.
Low Exposure
The path is on completely flat land and potential injury is limited to falling over.
Remoteness
Close to help in case of emergency.
Best time to visit
Features
- Picturesque
- Family friendly
- Forestry or heavy vegetation
Guidebooks in this area