Discovering Oregon’s Hidden Groves of Ancient Trees
Oregon, with its varied landscapes and dense forests, is an absolute haven for tree lovers. This land, overflowing with quiet corners, hidden groves, and majestic ancient trees, certainly has a mysterious allure that beckons you to explore and lose yourself in. Here’s a knowledgeable local’s guide to the 10 hidden groves of ancient trees worth visiting.1. Opal Creek Wilderness
Head an hour east from Salem and you’ll stumble upon one of the most preserved ancient forests in Oregon: Opal Creek Wilderness. This place doesn’t just smell like history; it breathes history. With giant Douglas firs dating back over 1,000 years, this forest is like a stroll back in time.2. Mount Hood National Forest
Along the Timberline Trail, there’s a grove of mountain hemlocks and noble firs aged several centuries in Mount Hood National Forest. Stop by the ZigZag Ranger Station to grab a map and though unmarked, the grove’s tranquility more than compensates the challenge of finding it.3. Beverly Beach State Park
Nestled away from the noisy beachside camping area, Beverly Beach State Park boasts a hidden grove of Sitka spruces. You’d be amazed by the sheer size of these ancient giants. The park’s looping Spencer Creek Nature Trail is your best introduction to these old souls.
4. Valley of the Giants
Tucked away in the Coast Range lay a gem called the Valley of the Giants. A three-hour drive from Portland, the trek may be tiresome, but any arborist would nod in agreement that standing beneath Oregon’s largest Douglas fir is worth every mile.5. Ashland Creek Forest
If you’re around Ashland, meander your way to Ashland Creek Forest. Take the adventurous White Rabbit Trail to be welcomed by an array of mature old white oaks, ponderosa pines, and madrones. Heads up, though – it gets steep, so make sure to lace up your hiking boots well!6. Elliot State Forest
Less known but equally enthralling is Elliot State Forest. Renowned for its Roosevelt elk, this area is also home to some of the oldest coastal forests in the Pacific Northwest. The Lost Coast Trail takes you through ancient Sitka spruce alleys.7. Hart’s Cove Trail
Breath-taking views are a guarantee at Hart’s Cove Trail in the Neskowin Wilderness. This trail boasts old Sitka spruces and western hemlocks. Do remember to check with the Forest Service, as the trail is closed between January to July for seal pupping.8. Andrew’s Experimental Forest
If you’re after solitude and ancient trees, Andrew’s Experimental Forest is the place. This research area allows limited public access, but offers a unique opportunity to admire groves of old-growth Douglas firs undisturbed by hordes of hikers.9. Arch Cape Forest Reserve
South of Cannon Beach, the Arch Cape Forest Reserve is home to a secluded grove of ancient Sitka spruces. The Cape Falcon Trail winds through moss-draped trees and offers glimpses of ocean blue between the sprawling greens.10. Peavy Arboretum
For a less intense day out, visit Peavy Arboretum. The Old Growth Trail loops around about a mile and, in that distance, introduces you to Oregon white oaks and giant sequoias, some of the oldest in Oregon.As you journey through these wondrous groves, remember, you’re treading through not just forests, but libraries of history, growing page by page, year by year. By respecting these ancient beings and leaving no trace, we ensure they continue to thrive, whispering stories of old in the silent breeze. After all, what could be more Oregonian than an appreciation for old, storied nature?