Idaho is home to all sorts of natural wonders that non-Idahoans don’t even know exist. People are shocked when we tell them that Idaho is home to a waterfall taller than Niagara Falls and one of the largest lava fields in the country. It’s these little-known destinations that make living in Idaho so exciting. There’s even one place that few longtime Idahoans seem to know about and it’s featured below. This old-growth forest in Idaho is home to some seriously old trees, and yet few people realize they’re there. This ancient forest is a spectacular sight, and seeing it should be on everybody’s bucket list.

No, you don't have to travel to Northern California just to see some humongous, old trees. In fact, you can do that right here in Idaho, and trust us — this place is SO worth seeing.
Tongan J/TripAdvisor
The Giant Red Cedar National Recreation Trail is located just a few miles from the tiny North Idaho town of Elk River. Hikers of this trail will be led into a dense forest of old-growth cedar trees and taken to "The Champion Tree of Idaho."
Colby Bland/Google
The trail is fully accessible and paved, so seeing these impressive trees shouldn't be a problem for most.
Nate Rowe/Google

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Seeing these ancient cedar trees in Idaho is truly something else. Although the grove is packed with giant cedars that will make you feel like an ant in comparison, there is one especially large one that acts as the forest's focal point.
Rose and Mike Farmer/Google
The Giant Western Red Cedar is listed on both the Idaho and National Register of Big Trees. It boasts a whopping diameter of 18 feet at chest height and it's 177 feet tall. It's estimated to be one of the oldest in the grove at over 3,000 years old.
Jason Minor/Google
The tree's immense size can be contributed to its location. The region is extremely wet and it is also conveniently placed away from the other competing cedars.
Nate Rowe/Google
Looking up at these trees, you can't help but feel incredibly minuscule in much more than size. This ancient forest was here long before Idaho was, well, Idaho. And it will hopefully continue to be here long after we're gone.
Jason Minor/Google
To get to the Giant Red Cedar National Recreation Trail, take County Road 382 north from Elk River for approximately 10 miles. Turn right on FS Road 4764. You'll find the trailhead roughly a quarter of a mile beyond the parking area.

Did you know about this ancient forest in North Idaho? Have you ever visited the Giant Red Cedar National Recreation Trail? Let us know in the comments! You can learn more about this incredible place on the U.S. Forest Service website.

This place is truly incredible. For more mind-blowing destinations, check out our list of The 7 Greatest Natural Wonders In Idaho.

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old-growth forest in idaho

Courtnie Erickson | May 04, 2023

Is there another old-growth forest in Idaho I should check out?

Yes! In fact, tucked in northern Idaho and approximately 12 miles west of the Montana state line is the DeVoto Memorial Cedar Grove. This is a bucket-list-worthy destination as you will not only find trees that are 2,000 years old, but the Lewis and Clark Expedition also explored this area back in the early 1800s. Today, when you visit, bring a picnic and eat at one of the picnic tables, take a walk around one of the interpretive trails, or just sit back and admire the beauty of these ancient cedar trees in Idaho.

What are some state parks in Idaho I should visit?

The state parks in Idaho are some of the best places to escape into nature and find hidden gems — like an old-growth forest. While there are dozens of state parks you could explore, some of our favorites and a few that we often recommend include:

  • Harriman State Park
  • Ponderosa State Park
  • Bruneau Dunes State Park
  • Heyburn State Park
  • Winchester Lake State Park
  • Farragut State Park

 

What are some of the best campgrounds in Idaho?

If you want to spend some time out in nature, there are all types of activities and attractions to help. But, one of our favorite outdoor activities is camping. With hundreds of campgrounds scattered around the Gem State, choosing a camping spot in Idaho can be a bit overwhelming. However, if you need a little help, consider the following places:

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Giant Cedar Grove Trailhead, Elk River, ID 83827, USA