Length
Elevation Gain
Highest Point
While the grove has been noted for its beauty since the early 1900s, a fire in 1926 destroyed three-quarters of the original grove, leaving just a couple of small disparate pieces. Still, there was enough left standing that, in April of 1943, the grove was designated as a scenic area. Traditional ways to estimate the age of these trees do not work, since the giants suffer from heart rot, which hollows out the center of the tree and makes accurate ring counts impossible. However, estimates using windfall and increment boring put the age of these trees at 800 years, and some of the largest are believed to be between 2000 and 3000 years old.
A 2.5-mile loop, departing from the south end of the parking area, takes in Granite Falls and the Upper Grove, which covers about 20 acres. First, take the little spur trail to see Lower Granite Falls, then return to the main trail, where you’ll soon reach a junction. Turn left toward the overlook. The trail ascends to a wonderful viewing platform, where you can see the falls from a higher angle.
The trail continues to ascend through some switchbacks, passes Upper Granite Falls, and then intersects Trail 301. Turn left and hike 0.8 mile until you see a sign for trail 301A, Cedar Grove Trail. After wandering around that lollipop loop through the grove, return to the parking area via Trail 301.
An easy 0.3-mile loop through the lower cedar grove starts at the north end of the parking area. It’s not shown on the trailhead map and isn’t signed, but the trail is very clear.
Trailhead
