Overview
Step into a world unchanged for millennia on our Old Growth Forest Walk. This gentle 2-day trek guides you through one of the last remaining stands of ancient temperate rainforest, where towering Western Red Cedars and Douglas Firs have stood sentinel for over 800 years.
Walking beneath the cathedral-like canopy, you'll experience the profound stillness and biodiversity of a true old-growth ecosystem. These forests support an incredible web of life—from spotted owls nesting in ancient snags to rare fungi carpeting the forest floor. Our expert naturalist guides will help you discover the intricate relationships that make these forests so ecologically valuable and spiritually restorative.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Forest Gateway to Cathedral Grove Camp
Meet your guide at the forest gateway for a detailed orientation on old-growth ecology. The morning walk follows a cushioned trail through progressively older forest stands, allowing you to observe the dramatic difference between managed forest and true old-growth. Stop at the "Grandmother Cedar"—a 1,200-year-old giant with a trunk circumference over 15 meters.
After a forest lunch, continue to Cathedral Grove Camp, set in a natural clearing surrounded by ancient giants. Evening program includes a "forest bathing" session and night walk to listen for owls.
Distance: 9 km | Elevation: +250m / -50m
Day 2: Cathedral Grove to Moss Valley
Wake to birdsong and morning mist filtering through the canopy. After breakfast, explore the grove's most spectacular trees, including several "nurse logs" supporting entire ecosystems of new growth. Learn to identify old-growth indicator species like lungwort lichen and Pacific giant salamanders.
The descent to Moss Valley follows a creek through a lush understory dripping with moss and ferns. Conclude your journey with a reflection session and celebratory lunch before transfer back to your starting point.
Distance: 9 km | Elevation: +150m / -350m
What You'll Learn
- How to identify old-growth forest characteristics
- The role of deadwood in forest ecosystems
- Native plant identification and traditional uses
- Bird calls of forest species including owls and woodpeckers
- Forest bathing (shinrin-yoku) techniques for stress reduction
- The science behind why old-growth forests are irreplaceable
- Conservation challenges and how you can help
What's Included
- Expert naturalist guide with ecology background
- All camping equipment and comfortable sleeping setup
- Gourmet forest meals using local ingredients
- Field guides and hand lenses for close observation
- Educational materials on old-growth ecology
- Park permits and camping fees
- Transportation from/to meeting point
What to Bring
- Comfortable hiking shoes (waterproof recommended)
- Rain jacket (forests are often misty)
- Layered clothing for variable temperatures
- Sleeping bag rated to 10°C (or rent from us)
- Small daypack for personal items
- Camera and/or nature journal
- Binoculars (optional but recommended)
- Water bottle (1.5L minimum)
Fitness Requirements
This is an EASY to MODERATE trek perfect for beginners and those seeking a gentler pace. The well-maintained trail has minimal elevation change and plenty of rest stops. Walking time is approximately 4-5 hours per day, but much of this is spent in slow observation rather than covering distance.
Suitable for anyone who can walk comfortably for 2-3 hours. This trek is ideal for those new to overnight hiking, families with older children, and anyone prioritizing nature education over physical challenge.
Dates & Booking
2026 Departures:
- April 25-26
- May 16-17
- June 6-7
- June 27-28
- July 18-19
- August 15-16
- September 12-13
- October 3-4
- October 24-25 (Mushroom Season Special)
Maximum group size: 10 participants
Minimum age: 10 years