Cathedral Grove's Old Growth Forest

Vancouver Island's Giant Douglas Fir Trees

Cathedral Grove on Vancouver Island continues to draw both locals and visitors from all corners of the globe for the ancient Douglas Fir trees that reside there. The forest boasts trees as old as 800 years old and is home to many species of wildlife.

Outdoor enthusiasts visiting Vancouver Island have numerous sights to choose from as the island houses an abundance of lakes, trails, and beaches, and in the winter, Mt. Washington is ideal for skiing and snowboarding, but Cathedral Grove is 2 hours closer than Pacific Rim National Park and Tofino, and therefore is a popular destination for those pressed for time.

MacMillan Provincial Park

Cathedral Grove is part of MacMillan Provincial Park and is nestled between Qualicum and Port Alberni on Highway 4, a 45-minute drive from Departure Bay Ferry terminal in Nanaimo, British Columbia. Cathedral Grove is consistently a top attraction as it provides visitors a rare up-close view of an ancient forest.

In 1944, Canadian forester H.R. MacMillan donated 136 hectares of land in recognition of the unique nature of the old growth forest. The land was soon established as a provincial park and has since been a regular attraction in the region.

Western Red Cedar, Western Hemlock, and Grand Fir

When visitors arrive at the park, they have the choice of walking along paths on either side of the highway. Long dirt trails wind through the forest and give visitors plenty of scenery to view.

Although the Giant Douglas Fir trees are perhaps the main attraction, there are other species of trees as well including Western Red Cedar, Western Hemlock, Broadleaf Maple, Balsam Fir, and Grand Fir.

Visitors should remain on the trails rather than wander off into the bush - not only for their safety, but also because trampling on the various plants and mosses can cause damage to them and to the animals that call Cathedral Grove their home.

1997 Cathedral Grove Storm

On January 1, 1997 a severe wind storm ripped through MacMillan Provincial Park resulting in extensive damage to Cathedral Grove. Many of the trees were toppled due to the extreme winds, causing the fallen trees to land square across the regular walking trails.

Although the clean-up effort managed to clear much of the debris caused by the storm, large trees were cut only where they crossed the trails, leaving the rest of the massive firs and cedars untouched.

According to Victoria Travelguide, the wood of the fallen trees (other wise known as "nurse logs") "absorbs rainwater, provides moisture, supplies nutrients, and provides an elevated platform above the shade of forest floor plats that contributes to the natural regeneration of the forest."

Designate 2 hours to soak in all Cathedral Grove has to offer and bring a camera, as there is no gift shop and you will want to document your journey among the giants.