Experience the Ancient Giants of Cathedral Grove, Vancouver Island

Source: Sean Scott Photography

Discover Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Provincial Park: A Living Ancient Forest

Cathedral Grove, located in MacMillan Provincial Park, is home to some of the oldest and tallest trees in Canada, including Western Red Cedar and Douglas Fir that tower over 80 meters in height. Some trees in the park are over 800 years old, making this forest one of the most remarkable ancient wonders on Vancouver Island. Walking under their expansive canopies, you can understand why it’s called “Cathedral Grove,” with tree limbs stretching towards the sky, like nature’s architecture.

This awe-inspiring park draws over 500,000 visitors annually, eager to witness the towering giants in person. Fun fact: Cathedral Grove’s enchanting trees have even served as backdrops for major Hollywood productions. Famed director George Lucas shot scenes for Star Wars VI: Return of the Jedi here, using the larger-than-life trees as the backdrop for the Ewoks home planet of Endor. More recently Jurassic World: Dominion (2022) also found the park the ideal setting for some prehistoric action!

A First Nations’ Legacy

The majestic trees of Cathedral Grove and the surrounding lands have been cared for by local First Nations for centuries. The K’ómoks, Tseshaht, and Te’mexw First Nations have long used the forest’s resources for shelter, transportation, clothing, and tools. In more recent history, logging interests threatened the forest’s preservation until H.R. MacMillan donated 136 hectares in 1944. This act led to the establishment of MacMillan Provincial Park in 1947, preserving the beauty of this ancient forest for future generations. (source)

Source: Sang Trinh via Wikimedia

Getting to Cathedral Grove

Cathedral Grove is located along Highway 4 in MacMillan Provincial Park, just 16 km east of Port Alberni. As you approach, the dense rows of towering trees will let you know you’re getting close. Parking is available on both sides of the highway, but be aware that you cannot cross the highway to park—visitors arriving from Port Alberni should park on the south side. If you’re visiting in the summer, it’s best to arrive early or during the shoulder seasons (May or September) to avoid the crowds.

Pro tip: Avoid visiting on windy days as falling branches can pose a safety hazard, and the park’s trails may be closed during such weather conditions.

Exploring Cathedral Grove Trails

Highway 4 divides Cathedral Grove into two distinct areas. The trails on both sides offer serene walks that take 20-30 minutes, but we recommend slowing down to fully appreciate the natural beauty and quiet solitude of this ancient forest.

Source: Destination BC – Graeme Owsianski

South Trails: The Big Tree Trail & Living Forest Trail

The south side of the park features the most popular trails, including the famous “Big Tree Trail,” which showcases the park’s largest Douglas Fir, an 800-year-old giant standing at 80 meters with a 9-meter trunk circumference. The “Living Forest Trail” offers interpretive signs, explaining the fascinating lifecycle of the forest’s flora and fauna.

Safety Tip: To access the north side of the park, you’ll need to cross Highway 4. Drivers often slow for pedestrians, but always ensure it’s safe to cross.

North Trails: The Old Growth Trail & Cameron River

The north side of the park, though less frequented, is equally captivating. The “Old Growth Trail” features two looped paths and offers stunning views of the Cameron River and Cameron Lake. Don’t miss the opportunity to marvel at the exposed root systems of the upturned old-growth trees—it’s a breathtaking display of nature’s power!

Forest Bathing in Cathedral Grove

If you’re seeking to truly connect with the natural world, consider trying a practice known as forest bathing (or shinrin-yoku). Cathedral Grove’s quiet, moss-draped environment provides the perfect setting for this mindful, rejuvenating experience. Let the sights, sounds, and scents of the ancient forest wash over you as you explore this magical place.

Plan Your Visit to MacMillan Provincial Park

Location: 452 Alberni Hwy (map)
Contact: (250) 474-1336 | Website
Hours: Open all year round

FAQs about Cathedral Grove

When is the best time to visit Cathedral Grove?

While Cathedral Grove is stunning year-round, the best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons (May or September) to avoid the peak summer crowds.

Are there guided tours at Cathedral Grove?

Cathedral Grove doesn’t offer guided tours, but the interpretive signs along the trails provide valuable insights into the forest’s natural history.

Ready to stand among the ancient giants of Cathedral Grove? Plan your visit to MacMillan Provincial Park today, and don’t forget to bring your camera for some stunning shots of Vancouver Island’s natural beauty!