Header Notice

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

California’s Secret Drive-Through Sequoia Tree

Published:

by Charlot Lavelle

californias-secret-drive-through-sequoia-tree

Have you ever driven through a tree? In California, you can experience this unique adventure. The Chandelier Tree in Leggett, California, offers a rare chance to drive through a living sequoia. This giant tree stands over 275 feet tall and has a tunnel carved through its base. It's a fun stop for families, road trippers, and nature lovers. The tree is part of a private park where you can also enjoy picnics and explore other redwoods. Visiting the Chandelier Tree gives you a glimpse into the incredible size and age of these ancient giants. Ready for a drive unlike any other?

Discovering California's Drive-Through Sequoia Trees

California is home to some of the most majestic trees on Earth. Among these giants, a few special ones have been carved to allow cars to drive through. These drive-through sequoia trees offer a unique experience, blending nature's grandeur with human ingenuity. Let's explore these incredible trees.

1. Chandelier Tree

Located in Leggett, the Chandelier Tree stands proudly in the Drive-Thru Tree Park. This 276-foot-tall sequoia has a 6-foot-wide tunnel carved through its base, allowing cars to pass through. Named for its unique branches that resemble a chandelier, this tree is a must-see.

2. Shrine Drive-Thru Tree

In Myers Flat, the Shrine Drive-Thru Tree offers another chance to drive through a living sequoia. This tree, part of the Humboldt Redwoods State Park, features a natural tunnel created by fire. Despite the damage, the tree continues to thrive, showcasing nature's resilience.

3. Tour-Thru Tree

Klamath's Tour-Thru Tree provides a picturesque drive-through experience. This tree, located near the Klamath River, has a tunnel carved in the 1960s. The surrounding area offers beautiful views, making it a perfect spot for photos.

4. Tunnel Log

Sequoia National Park is home to the Tunnel Log, a fallen sequoia with a tunnel cut through its trunk. This tree fell in 1937 due to natural causes, and the tunnel was created the following year. Driving through this tree offers a unique perspective on the size and strength of these giants.

5. Pioneer Cabin Tree

Though it no longer stands, the Pioneer Cabin Tree in Calaveras Big Trees State Park deserves mention. This tree, carved in the 1880s, fell during a storm in 2017. Its legacy lives on, reminding visitors of the delicate balance between nature and human activity.

6. Dead Giant Tunnel Tree

Yosemite National Park's Dead Giant Tunnel Tree offers a historical drive-through experience. Carved in 1878, this tree was one of the first to allow cars to pass through. Although it no longer stands, its story remains a testament to the early days of tourism in California's forests.

7. Wawona Tree

Another fallen giant, the Wawona Tree in Yosemite National Park, was a famous drive-through tree until it fell in 1969. Carved in 1881, it stood as a symbol of the park's natural beauty. Visitors can still see the fallen trunk, a reminder of the tree's grandeur.

8. Tunnel Tree

Located in Mariposa Grove, the Tunnel Tree is another iconic sequoia. Though it no longer allows cars to pass through, visitors can walk through the tunnel and marvel at the tree's immense size. This tree highlights the importance of preserving these natural wonders for future generations.

Experience the Magic of California's Drive-Through Sequoia Tree

Driving through a Sequoia tree in California is a unique adventure. This experience offers a close encounter with nature's giants. The Chandelier Tree in Leggett and the Tunnel Log in Sequoia National Park are must-see spots. These trees are not just big; they have a rich history and are symbols of nature's resilience.

Plan your visit to these iconic trees. Bring a camera, as the photo opportunities are endless. Whether you're a nature lover or just looking for a cool road trip stop, these drive-through trees won't disappoint.

Don't miss out on this incredible experience. It's a chance to connect with nature in a way that's both fun and awe-inspiring. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and make some unforgettable memories.