Visit Oregon’s Largest Cedar Tree

There are lots of self-named “big trees” in the world, but if you happen to be in Northwestern Oregon, be sure and stop in Rockaway Beach, for a gander at Oregon’s largest cedar tree. Lovingly nicknamed the Rockaway Cedar by the locals, this giant stands over 150-feet high, and is surrounded by an equally impressive forest. And believe it or not, it’s in a preserve in the middle of town. The best part is, the half-mile boardwalk that leads out to this local landmark is wheelchair-accessible. So slow down on your next trek down Highway 101, and stop in Rockaway Beach to enjoy a short walk through the forest to admire this stately giant.

A Wheelchair-Accessible Boardwalk

It’s easy to zip by the small parking lot for the Rockaway Beach Old Growth Cedar Preserve. If you’re heading south, slow down when you see the giant hot dog on your left, and look for the parking lot just past Washington Street, on the left. There’s only six standard spaces in the lot, and two accessible slots, but the accessible ones are usually available.

From the parking area, the level boardwalk winds through the 45-acre old growth forest filled with skunk cabbage, salmonberry and coast sedge. About midway along there’s also a level boardwalk over to a viewing platform with a picnic table and benches. It’s a nice secluded spot for a lunch break.

And Oregon’s largest cedar tree – a 154-foot giant — sits at the end of the .6-mile trail. There are a few benches to sit and admire the giant, as well as another picnic table there. There’s also a short stretch of boardwalk that leads over to a more secluded bench if you’d like a little privacy. All in all, it’s a beautiful stroll through the forest, and a must-stop on any Pacific Northwest road trip. And while you’re in the area, be sure to plan a stop at the equally wheelchair-accessible Kilchis Point Reserve, which is just down the road in Bay City emerginghorizons.com/kilchis-point-reserve-a-wheelchair-accessible-tillamook-county-gem/.