A moderate, 3 1/2 mile hike.

This fascinating trail includes a couple of major attractions.

The Giant Tree, at 354 feet tall and 53.2 feet in circumference, is recognized by the American Forestry Association as the Champion Redwood Sequoia Sempervirens.  (It was once 363 feet tall, until a storm broke off its top.)  While not the tallest tree, it may well be the most massive, and is certainly an outstanding example of the species.

Also along the trail, you’ll see many fallen trees; the uprooted roots form beautiful, sculptural shapes. Stand and look at them for a while, and you’ll be amazed at the images your mind will conjure.

Directions:  Proceed north along the Avenue of the Giants under the highway 101 overpass.  Follow Mattole Road, and watch from milestone 4.4.  Turn south onto the Big Trees area access road, and proceed 0.1 miles to the parking lot.  The hiking trail starts to the southeast.