
Cathedral Tree Trail
Discover the awe-inspiring Cathedral Tree on a serene, moss-laden forest trail in Astoria, Oregon. Connect to the Astoria Column for stunning views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Cathedral Tree Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the awe-inspiring Cathedral Tree on a serene, moss-laden forest trail in Astoria, Oregon. Connect to the Astoria Column for stunning views.
"Being out of breath and the burning in my legs no longer mattered because I was in awe! It was HUGE!"

👟 Sturdy Shoes Are Key
Trail can be muddy & slippery. Good tread is a must!
🐌 Look for Banana Slugs!
A fun surprise for kids and adults alike. Keep your eyes peeled!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Cathedral Tree
End of the main trail
A truly massive, awe-inspiring tree that makes the hike worthwhile. Its sheer size is breathtaking!

Astoria Column Views
Via connecting trail from Cathedral Tree
Ascend the column for panoramic views of Astoria, the Columbia River, and the Pacific Ocean. A rewarding vista after your hike.

Banana Slug Spotting
Along the trail
Keep an eye out for the vibrant yellow banana slugs! A fun and unique discovery for all ages, especially kids.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Footwear
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Shoes Are Key
Trail can be muddy & slippery. Good tread is a must!
🐌 Look for Banana Slugs!
A fun surprise for kids and adults alike. Keep your eyes peeled!
⬆️ Uphill Climb
Most of the trail is uphill, so be prepared for a moderate workout.
🅿️ Parking Patience
Street parking is limited; consider off-peak times or parking at Astoria Column.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Shoes Are Key
Trail can be muddy & slippery. Good tread is a must!
🐌 Look for Banana Slugs!
A fun surprise for kids and adults alike. Keep your eyes peeled!
⬆️ Uphill Climb
Most of the trail is uphill, so be prepared for a moderate workout.
🅿️ Parking Patience
Street parking is limited; consider off-peak times or parking at Astoria Column.
🌳 Embrace the Moss
Enjoy the lush, moss-covered trees and serene forest atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Cathedral Tree Trail to be a beautiful and quiet forest hike, with the massive Cathedral Tree being a major highlight. Many enjoy the opportunity to spot banana slugs and appreciate the serene atmosphere. However, some find the tree itself slightly underwhelming and note that the trail can be steep, muddy, and slippery, especially after rain, making good footwear essential. Parking can also be a challenge.
"Very quiet and beautiful trail. Lots of maintenance is being done at the moment, so be sure to stay on the actual trail. Most of it is uphill and a little slippery after or during rainfall, but once I reached the cathedral tree, being out of breath and the burning in my legs no longer mattered because I was in awe! It was HUGE! I used this trail to access the Column and didn't wanna pay $5 for parking, so you'll have to park on the street and it has some potholes at the moment and can't hold a lot of cars so go at less busy times of the day!"
Taryn Ellingson
"not really worth the trip unless you're local or happen to be driving by, a mile round trip from the Irving Street entrance. The cathedral tree itself is somewhat underwhelming. The wide gravel trail up to the tree from the street is steep, that's why I rate it moderate. A great spot for letting kids run off some steam!"
Kelly Tyler
"A short and quite easy trail. We saw a bunch of banana slugs and the kids had a blast trying to find the next one! You got to walk slowly and enjoy the solitude and calmness of the trail. It was not we but I can see that with some rain the trail can become muddy and slippery. While the markings and signs are not great but they are still there and easy to find. The trail ends at the Cathedral tree which makes it a fun adventure with a goal! Will highly recommend it if you are visiting the Astoria Column."
Ash Jafri
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The main trailhead is often accessed from Irving Street in Astoria. You can also connect to it from the Astoria Column. Be aware that street parking can be limited and the trail can be steep in parts.
Parking is available on the street near the Irving Street entrance, but it's limited and can fill up quickly. Some visitors opt to park at the Astoria Column and access the trail from there.
While public transport might get you to Astoria, direct access to the trailhead via public transport is not commonly mentioned. It's best to plan for driving or ride-sharing.
Trail markings can be inconsistent, and the trail may split. Following signs towards the 'Cathedral Tree' or using a navigation app is recommended.
The Astoria Column is a prominent landmark and can be reached by car. There is a parking area at the base of the column, which may have a fee.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Cathedral Tree Trail itself is generally free to access. There might be a parking fee if you choose to park at the Astoria Column.
As an outdoor trail, it's typically accessible during daylight hours. There are no set opening or closing times.
The trail is free to enter. The only potential cost would be for parking if you choose to park at the Astoria Column.
Yes, the trail is open year-round. However, conditions can vary significantly, with winter and spring often being muddy and slippery.
Visitors are encouraged to stay on marked trails, especially when maintenance is ongoing, and to respect the natural environment.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The trail is approximately 1.6 miles round trip, making it a relatively short but rewarding hike.
It's generally considered moderate due to some steep sections and the need to climb over rocks. It's a great spot for kids to burn energy.
You'll experience a mossy, serene forest with towering trees, the impressive Cathedral Tree itself, and potentially banana slugs. Connecting trails can lead to the Astoria Column.
Yes, it's a good option for families looking for a short hike. Kids often enjoy spotting banana slugs and the novelty of walking through a giant tree.
Restroom facilities are not typically mentioned as being directly on the trail itself. They are more likely to be found at the Astoria Column or in nearby parks.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the immense scale of the Cathedral Tree, the lush moss-covered forest, and the panoramic views from the Astoria Column. The unique split paths also offer intriguing photo possibilities.
Absolutely! The mossy trees, unique flora, and the sheer grandeur of the Cathedral Tree make it a fantastic spot for nature photographers.
Morning light filtering through the trees can create a magical atmosphere. For the Astoria Column, consider golden hour for stunning panoramic shots.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local park rules and regulations before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the trees and forest. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant views from the Column.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the trail can be muddy and slippery after rain, sturdy, closed-toe shoes will help little ones navigate safely. Consider parking at the Astoria Column to avoid potential street parking issues and to combine your hike with a visit to the landmark for even more family fun and incredible views.
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the lush, moss-covered environment and the chance to observe local flora and fauna, including the unique banana slugs. The trail's connection to the Astoria Column also provides an opportunity to combine your hike with panoramic views, offering a broader perspective of the Oregon coast.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trail and Its Mysteries
Many visitors appreciate the quiet solitude and the calming atmosphere of the forest. The abundance of moss and lichen on the trees creates a vibrant, almost otherworldly environment. Keep an eye out for the local wildlife, particularly the bright yellow banana slugs, which are a common and delightful sight for hikers, especially children. The trail's natural beauty and the unique experience of walking amongst such ancient trees make it a memorable stop for nature lovers.
For those seeking even more adventure, the trail connects to the Astoria Column. This offers an opportunity to extend your exploration and gain stunning aerial views of the surrounding landscape. The combination of a forest hike and a historical landmark provides a well-rounded experience for visitors to Astoria.
Understanding Trail Conditions and Safety
Some reviewers mention that maintenance is sometimes ongoing, so it's important to stay on the designated path to ensure safety and preserve the trail. While the trail is generally well-marked, there can be moments where it splits, adding to the sense of exploration. Visitors who have hiked in wetter months, like March, specifically note the muddy conditions. Planning your visit during drier periods or being prepared with waterproof and grippy footwear will greatly enhance your experience and safety on the trail.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit