Yesterday I went looking for the Cheewhat Giant (the largest living Western redcedar, and the largest known tree in Canada).
The hike to it is reasonably short (about 2.3km) but has a higher difficulty rating as it’s not very well marked, containing LOTS of roots and fallen trees to navigate, and is somewhat steep, with two short rope sections.
The directions to it aren’t great, and say that you’ll pass many HUGE trees on the way, but they pale in comparison to the Cheewhat Giant.
After passing many ginormous tress, I came to this ancient giant (it’s over 4.80 metres (15.75 feet) in diameter, and might well be 1500 years old!) and although the trail continued on, I knew the trail also leads to Cheewhat Lake, I DEFINITELY thought this was the giant I was looking for.
There’s no cell service out there, so once I got back in cell range, I looked it up and found out that this is NOT the Cheewhat Giant.
The trees out there are so large you can’t really fathom how big they are until you’re next to them.
I was questioning whether I should continue down the path in case I wasn’t actually looking at the Cheewhat Giant, but I was losing daylight and knew I had a heck of a hike back up.
Do I regret not finding the Cheewhat Giant? No.
When you’re out in nature, making the safe and responsible choice is always the way forward.
Will I make a return trip to see the Cheewhat Giant (it’s 5ft wider and 1000 years older!)? ABSOLUTELY.
If you’re an experienced hiker wanting to see these magnificent ancient giants: Even the trailhead is very challenging to find! You have to look for some pink and blue spray paint on the side of Rosander Main (a logging road - it’s a looooong bumpy road to get there!). A vehicle in good condition with four decent tires and a sturdy spare at the ready are still strongly recommended, should you decide to make the trip.
As always, follow the principles of Leave No Trace. ❤️🌲
Being surrounded by these ancient giants is an incredible feeling, and spending time in the forest with so much massive old growth is a wonderful experience.
🎥:
@betterwithadventure
#vanisle #vancouverisland #britishcolumbia #ancienttrees