Two hours from Victoria on the west coast of Vancouver Island and in the territory of the Pacheedaht First Nation is the town of Port Renfrew, also known as the “Tall Trees Capital of Canada”. The Big Trees Map provides directions to the most significant trees, groves, and parks found in this beautiful area, as well as key local businesses.
Included are driving directions to Avatar Grove (home to Canada’s “Gnarliest Tree”) Note — Avatar Grove is currently closed while trail improvement work is being planned, Big Lonely Doug (Canada’s 2nd largest Douglas-fir), the Red Creek Fir (the world’s largest Douglas-fir tree), San Juan Spruce (one of Canada’s largest spruce trees), Harris Creek Spruce (another giant Sitka spruce), and more!
IMPORTANT!! The driving directions to the San Juan Spruce and Red Creek Fir have recently changed, but are not yet reflected on our map or the written instructions. Please refer to this image, which shows that you now keep LEFT at a Y junction on Lens Main for about 1.7 km before taking a RIGHT on a newly constructed road that links you back up to Bear Main after another 2km.
As always, take extra precautions while driving or hiking in the backcountry, as these are active logging roads through rugged terrain without cell service. Always have a spare tire and first aid kit, and leave a trip plan with someone back home.
We encourage you to speak up for big trees and ancient forests in BC by sending an instant message to the BC government today.