Pros & cons
PROS
- Awe‑inspiring old‑growth cedars and firs, some over 1,000 years old
- Easy 1.5‑mile loop with boardwalks and a fun suspension bridge
CONS
- Small parking lot and heavy summer crowds
- Trail and boardwalks can be slippery after rain; occasional flood closures
Overview
A short, soulful walk through an ancient forest, the Grove of the Patriarchs delivers big wonder for minimal effort. Just off WA‑123 near the Stevens Canyon entrance, you’ll wander beneath colossal western red cedars, Douglas‑fir, silver fir, and hemlock—many centuries old—amid cool shade and filtered sun.
Trail at a Glance
- Distance: about 1.5 miles as a mostly flat loop with minimal elevation gain.
- Surface: well‑established path with generous boardwalks that protect fragile roots and keep feet dry.
- Signature Moment: a single‑file suspension bridge over the clear Ohanapecosh River leads to an island where the biggest, oldest trees stand.
- Parking: a small lot (around two dozen spaces) that fills quickly in summer.
What You’ll See
Expect trunks wider than a car, nurse logs sprouting new life, and a dense canopy that turns midday into a gentle, green twilight. The Ohanapecosh River adds sparkle and sound, and interpretive signs along the way point out the grove’s living history.
Why It’s Special
Few places package true old‑growth grandeur into such an approachable stroll. The island microclimate—kept cool and moist by snowmelt‑fed flows—has protected these giants for centuries, making this loop a crowd‑pleasing primer on Pacific Northwest rainforest ecosystems.
Wildlife
You’re here for the trees, but keep an ear out for woodpeckers and songbirds, and watch the understory for small mammals. Amphibians favor the damp forest floor and river margins. Larger mammals roam the broader region but are rarely seen right in the grove.
Best Time to Visit
Hit it early or on weekdays in summer to beat the parking crunch and tour groups. Morning light slants nicely through the canopy; late afternoon can be equally atmospheric. After heavy rains or spring melt, check conditions—high water can temporarily close the bridge and loop.
Need to Know
There are no services at the trailhead beyond basic parking; bring your own water and snacks. Footing can be slick after rain—good traction helps. In peak season, have a Plan B nearby if the lot is full.
Getting There
From the Stevens Canyon entrance off WA‑123, continue roughly a quarter mile on Stevens Canyon Road, cross the Ohanapecosh River bridge, and look for the trailhead parking on the right. The area sits around 2,200 feet in elevation.
Where it is
46.7640, -121.5551Tips for Grove of the Patriarchs
- 01Arrive before 9am or visit midweek to snag a parking spot.
- 02Wear shoes with grip—boardwalks and roots can be slick after rain.
- 03Bring water and snacks; there are no services at the trailhead.
- 04After heavy rain, check conditions since flooding can close the bridge.
Amenities
Near Grove of the Patriarchs
All places →All trails →
0.1 mi awayGrove of the Patriarchs TrailShort old-growth walk among thousand-year giants by the OhanapecoshEasy · 1.1 mi · 48 min
0.6 mi awayStevens Canyon Entrance ArchSummer gateway to Ohanapecosh, Grove of the Patriarchs, and Box CanyonEntrance Station
0.8 mi awaySilver Falls OverlookShort hike to a roaring 40‑foot waterfall in a lush canyonScenic Viewpoint
0.8 mi awaySilver FallsLush loop to a roaring gorge on the Ohanapecosh RiverTrailhead · Parking
0.9 mi awayThree LakesRemote trio of alpine lakes with a historic patrol cabinRestroom · Campground
2 mi awaySilver Falls LoopShort, river-hugging loop to a roaring turquoise waterfallEasy · 2.7 mi · 1.8 hr
2.6 mi awayShriner Peak TrailSteep, sunny grind to a historic lookout with huge Rainier viewsChallenging · 8.5 mi · 6 hr
3.8 mi awayBox Canyon LoopShort, paved loop peering into a 180-foot slot canyonEasy · 0.5 mi · 18 min
