Discover Oregon’s Secret Forests: The Hidden Groves of Ancient Trees Worth Visiting
Take a journey with us today through the verdant heart of our beloved Oregon, as we share some lesser-known groves of ancient trees that are real treasures. Bring along your hiking boots, field guide, and indomitable spirit of adventure.
1. The Grove of Titans – Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
Though technically sitting just across the border in California, the Grove of Titans is consistently treasured by Oregonians as it harbors some of our planet’s oldest and grandest trees. In typical Oregon fashion, its precise location is kept hush-hush to protect these magnificent trees, but dedicated adventurers have been known to find it. Remember, respect the area and pack out what you bring in!
2. Shore Acres State Park
Home to one of Oregon’s unique coastal groves, visitors can wander among towering Sitka spruce and Douglas fir, some dating over 500 years old. The trail starting at the visitor center winds through these ancient beauties, with intermittent views of the rugged coastline. Don’t forget to visit the restored mansions’ gardens, maintained year-round!
3. Ancient Forest Trail – Breitenbush
Here, old-growth Western Red Cedars and Douglas Firs are the stars. Tucked away within the Willamette National Forest, follow the easy, three-mile Ancient Forest Trail, with interpretive signs that enhance the magical experience. A pro tip: unwind afterwards in nearby Breitenbush Hot Springs.
4. Opal Creek Wilderness
Deep within the Little North Santiam River’s forested canyon lies a grove of 1,000-year-old Western Red Cedars. Follow the Opal Creek Trail, an easy 7-mile loop, leading to the Jawbone Flats, a preserved early 20th-century mining community.
5. Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint
Home to the legendary ‘Octopus Tree’, an odd Sitka spruce that boasts multiple massive trunks. Historians believe local tribes may have shaped the tree centuries ago. Make an afternoon of it and climb the nearby lighthouse for stunning panoramic views.
6. Cascade Head Preserve – Lincoln City
Here, 400-year-old Sitka spruce rule supreme. Reach them via the Forest and Hart’s Cove Trails. Besides massive trees, the upper meadows in late summer are bursting with colorful wildflowers, and the views over the Pacific Ocean are breathtaking.
7. Mount Hood National Forest – Ramona Falls Trail
This 7.1-mile moderate hike brings you up close to an old-growth forest of prominent Douglas firs and Western Red Cedars. It culminates at the glorious Ramona Falls. The area is also popular for camping, so consider making it a weekend trip!
8. The Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest
Hikers can marvel at the colossal 800-year-old Ponderosa Pines along the Big Pine Loop trail. The trail begins at the Big Pine Campground – snag some locally-roasted Siskiyou Brew Works coffee in the nearby town of Medford before you hit the trail.
9. Hendricks Park – Eugene
Closer to civilization, but not short on charm, this 78-acre city park houses a stunning collection of 200-year-old Douglas firs. Don’t leave without strolling through the Rhododendron Garden that features over 6,000 varieties of the plant.
10. The Vallis Alps – Castella
This alpine beauty spot has ancient Mount Shasta fir growing among the mountain hemlock. The spellbinding Castle Lake nearby is a perfect spot for a cooling dip after a vigorous hike.
In each of these places, and so many other unnamed groves across the state, it’s hard not to be in awe of these majestic ancient trees. They silently hold the stories of centuries: from the whispers of native tribes to the murmurs of modern-day hikers. Think of them as the wise, serene guardians of our beloved Oregon. Get out there and make a connection. It’s a meeting of the minds that you will surely remember.