In a less visited corner of this magnificent National Park lies a grove of old, first growth trees known as the “Grove of the Patriarchs.” It is about a one mile walk from the main road through some of the most beautiful forest you have ever seen. Part of the trail runs beside the Ohanapecosh River.
Soon, the trail divides and you cross the creek on a swinging bridge and head deeper into the forest, until you enter the Grove of the Patriarchs. From there, the trail becomes a boardwalk to help protect this old forest from the crush of too many visitors.
From here, you feel like you are on sacred ground. Groves of ancient Douglas-fir, hemlock and Western red cedar trees leave the air musty sweet. Many of these trees are over 1,000 years old…some have 30’ foot or more circumferences…they have survived fires and floods and even the ravages of man.
This photo is more artistic and less designed to give you a feel of an old growth forest. In the future, I will show you images of the trees that grow here. But, better yet, if you are ever in this great park, set aside some time to visit this place for yourself. You will never forget it.
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