The Big Tree – Largest White Fir in Northern American – Loafer Canyon
Saturday, August 24, 2013 – Oh Happy Day….I have been to Loafer Canyon countless times since I was six years old…..never had I been to The Big Tree. It was a mystery to me, where was this enormous wonder, would I really be able to make the rigorous 45 minute hike, would I survive the hike back down even? I am one lucky girl…I don’t need an escort through the gate to the trail head that is on private ground, I belong to the Loafer Canyon Homeowners Association, therefore, I can go to the mountain anytime I like!
Saturday’s weather was stunningly autumnal and clear(Mostly), and we were rewarded for the short but steep hike by a magnificent view of the monumental white fir that is known to so many as The Big Tree. This particular tree is the largest white fir (Abies concolor) on record in North America
As we arrived at the cabin Friday afternoon, Vickie’s comment as we got out of the car “This is what God meant the world to be!” It brings tears to my eyes thinking about the serenity we felt in the canyon. And in our journey, we discover a secret - there's is beautiful sunlight coming through the grove of trees with sheets of rain falling to make the summer heat bearable. "NO BEARS” on this trail thank goodness!
You will come to a meadow the tree isn’t far from the meadow, the path is well worn, and there is no question you have arrived when you turn the bend. But before you get there it is like a trip with the little ones...”Are we there yet?’ except our question was, “Is this the meadow, not yet… Instead, at the crest of each little hill we saw only another rise ahead, we were grateful for the cool weather, misting rain, and walking sticks we had picked up before we got very far into the hike. “How much further? When are we going to see it? Why are there so many hills? This is horrible!” I continued. “I’m in really bad shape, we need to stop again!” “Have we come a mile yet? “They said it was only 1 mile….!” "I sure hope this is worth all this effort!”
Fall is almost here…you can feel it in the air, you can see it in the trees, and when we return to the cabin we will be able to settle in with a nice dinner, cozy blankets, and peace & quiet. 
There she is………Majestic, Tower, and Formidable a sight that is amazingly awesome and in my own backyard for so many years. She measures
Circumference: 244
Height: 101
Spread: 56
Total Points: 359
You just need to stay close to the earth to learn how God does things, and close to your family to nurture your heart…be a tree hugger!
Nancy was a wonderful guide, after all she has watch “Naked and Afraid”! She knew how to mark the trail when we had cell service, we wore good hiking shoes, she told me what we would do if the rain was to heavy, and most of all she was so understanding when I said…”GOTTA STOP AGAIN!”
8 comments:
Thank you, Thank you for a wonderful weekend. I so enjoyed our hike! We did it!
The time we spent together was so needed. I enjoyed every second.
We are all so grateful that you are a member of the association in Loafer and we could be away together.
Hi - Sorry to jump on in a random post! My daughter is participating in the "play unplugged" program this summer, and one of the activies you can earn a badge for is to hike with your family and friends up to the "Big Tree" in Loafer Canyon. I've googled around, and it sounds like we need permission to hike there? Do you know who we contact about that? We live in Elk Ridge. If you could call me at 801-369-3124, I would appreciate any information you have. Thanks! Terra Costin
HI, would it be possible to find out how to receive an escort through the gate, or to gain permission? I would love to take my children there this weekend. I have heard there is also a trailhead in Payson Canyon but I can't find the info. Any help you can give would be very much appreciated. I love your photos!
HI, would it be possible to find out how to receive an escort through the gate, or to gain permission? I would love to take my children there this weekend. I have heard there is also a trailhead in Payson Canyon but I can't find the info. Any help you can give would be very much appreciated. I love your photos!
Marcia Ventura - I live in Davis County...a little far away, but I would be glad to talk with my children who own a cabin in Loafer if you are still interested in getting an escort!
The other trail starts at the parking lot across from Maple Dell Scout camp. It is 3 or 3.5 miles one way, and has some pretty steep sections. Scouts do it all the time, but I would definitely rate the trail as strenuous. I'd heard there was another way there, which is probably the way you describe. Sounds a lot easier.
Mellifluous - yes the trail from the Loafer Canyon side is much easier and only about 1 mile. It is absolutely beautiful. So glad I was able to cross this off my bucket list!
We took our scouts from the Payson Canyon side and couldn't find any map or location of the tree, so here is a link to the GPS track from our way back down to help the next group.
https://www.gaiagps.com/public/8iMgKBYNOILJes8plFzVjaoz
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