Kalaloch Big Cedar Nature Trail

Why hike it

This is a blink-and-you’re-done walk with a huge payoff: a towering western red cedar in the heart of coastal rainforest, just off Highway 101. It’s not a “hike” so much as a short nature walk, but the old-growth vibe—ferns, moss-draped limbs, and the rich cedar aroma after rain—delivers classic Olympic Peninsula atmosphere with almost no effort.

Route and experience

From the small gravel parking loop, follow a wide, mostly flat gravel path a few hundred yards to a lollipop loop at the Big Cedar. Total distance is about 0.32 miles round trip. The 2014 storm split and partially felled the tree, but its massive standing trunk and the fallen sections are still jaw-dropping, and you’ll pass other big cedars along the loop. Please stay behind the fence around the main tree to protect fragile roots.

Accessibility and conditions

The main path is wide and well-graded, but the loop narrows (down to roughly 3 feet in places) with steep drop-offs at the edges—wheelchairs and strollers should use extra caution or turn around before the loop. Expect damp, sometimes muddy or rooty sections in wet weather; waterproof shoes are smart outside the driest summer weeks.

Logistics

Parking is free but limited at the end of a 0.3-mile spur road signed “Big Cedar Tree” off US-101 north of Kalaloch. There are no facilities here (no water, no restrooms). Leashed dogs are allowed on this trail. Most visitors spend 15–30 minutes.

Best time to go

Year-round. Spring through fall (March–October) is the safest bet for drier footing, but rain actually makes the forest more fragrant and photogenic. Midday sees the most traffic; early or late light is softer and crowds are lighter. This is an easy add-on between nearby Beach 4/6 and Kalaloch Beach’s “Tree of Life.”

Bottom line

If you’re driving 101, this is absolutely worth the quick stop—an ancient giant without the miles. If you’re looking for a longer hike, pair this with other Kalaloch-area trails; on its own, it’s short and sweet.