Place · 1.2 mi away
Overview
Once one of the largest Western red cedars anywhere, the Quinault Big Cedar stood about 174 feet tall with a circumference over 61 feet. A storm took it down in 2016, but the site remains a compelling stop: a colossal trunk sprawled across rainforest floor and a hulking stump that tells the story of centuries in one glance.
What You’ll See
Expect a dramatic fallen giant surrounded by ferns, moss, and the soaked-green glow of the Quinault Rainforest. Even on the ground, the tangle of trunk and root mass is jaw‑dropping and photogenic. Rangers have left the tree where it fell to continue the forest’s natural cycle—so it’s look, don’t touch (and definitely don’t take).
Getting There & The Walk
It’s roughly a quarter‑mile from North Shore Road, but don’t expect a groomed nature stroll. The old path is no longer maintained and can be muddy, rooty, and slick, with occasional downed logs to step over. Signage may be missing and the pullout is small, so slow down as you approach and keep an eye out just past the guardrail. Boots are a good idea—this is true rain‑forest.
Why It Matters
This was a thousand‑plus‑year‑old titan of the Quinault Valley, famous long before it fell. Seeing it now is a lesson in humility and ecology: nothing here lasts forever, and even the mightiest trees feed the next generation. The park intentionally left it in place to decompose naturally.
Wildlife
The Quinault Rainforest supports Roosevelt elk, black‑tailed deer, black bears, river otters, and a rich birdlife. You may not spot anything on this short visit, but keep your eyes and ears open—dawn and dusk are the most active times in these woods.
Best Time to Visit
Come during a dry spell if you can—the unmaintained path gets slick and muddy when it’s wet. This is a quick stop that works well as part of a broader lap around Lake Quinault.
If You Want More Big Trees
If the rough path or closure notes give you pause, head to nearby July Creek—there are other giant cedars and a rewarding rainforest feel without chasing a faded spur.
Pros
- Short walk from North Shore Road
- Massive fallen cedar and stump still awe‑inspiring
Cons
- Tree fell in 2016; trail is no longer maintained
- Small, unsigned parking pullout; easy to miss
Tips
- Look for a small roadside pullout just past the guardrail; signage may be gone.
- Wear waterproof boots—the short path is muddy, rooty, and slick when wet.
- The trail is decommissioned; check with park staff for current access conditions.
- Leave everything as you find it—the fallen tree is intentionally left to decompose.
- For more big trees on better paths, try the July Creek area nearby.
