Cathedral Grove is one of the most accessible old-growth forests on Vancouver Island, set within MacMillan Provincial Park along Highway 4 between Parksville and Port Alberni. A short network of flat loop trails takes you beneath towering Douglas fir and western red cedar trees, with trunks so wide you can barely wrap your arms around them.
Trails on both sides of the highway make it an easy stop on the drive to Port Alberni, the Pacific Rim, or central island lakes. Boardwalks, wide gravel paths, and frequent viewpoints mean you can experience the forest at a relaxed pace, whether you are travelling with kids, pushing a stroller, or just hopping out for a quick stretch of the legs.
What to expect at Cathedral Grove
- Type of experience: Short, family-friendly forest walks through an old-growth Douglas fir and cedar ecosystem within MacMillan Provincial Park.
- Trails: Two main loop trails on either side of Highway 4, with a combined walking distance of roughly 2.2 km.
- Time needed: Plan about 45 minutes to walk both sides, longer if you like to stop for photos or read interpretive signs.
- Accessibility: The north side has a boardwalk-style loop that works well for most wheelchairs and strollers; the south side has upgraded but slightly more uneven gravel paths.
- Parking: Small roadside parking areas on both sides of Highway 4 that fill quickly, especially in summer and on weekends. Expect congestion.
- Season and weather: Open year-round, with lush moss and ferns in the rainy months. Avoid visiting during strong winds, as large branches and trees can fall in old-growth forests.
- Good to know: There are pit toilets on both sides of the highway, no entrance fees, and pets must stay on leash. Please stay on the designated trails to protect the forest floor and root systems.
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Explore the Trails of Cathedral Grove
Stepping into Cathedral Grove feels like entering another world. This iconic destination draws more than half a million visitors each year, captivated by its towering old-growth trees, deep green moss, and quiet forest floor.
Cathedral Grove has two main trail areas on either side of Highway 4, making it easy to explore both the north and south sections in a single short visit.
North Trail – Old Growth Boardwalk
The North Old Growth Trail features groves of ancient Western Red Cedar trees near Cameron Lake. A beautifully maintained boardwalk trail winds through this area, extending approximately 1.2 km, and is wheelchair accessible.
Along this trail, you’ll experience the legacy of the 1997 windstorm, with enormous fallen trees creating a striking visual and ecological narrative. Newer trees now thrive atop the nutrient-rich logs, creating an awe-inspiring cycle of renewal. Don’t miss the scenic access points to the Cameron River and unique photo opportunities with these fallen giants.
Along this trail, you’ll see the impact of the 1997 windstorm, where several massive trees came down and now play an important role in the forest’s renewal. Younger trees are growing on top of these old logs, creating a great example of how the ecosystem rebuilds itself. There are also a few scenic spots along the Cameron River, plus some excellent photo opportunities with the fallen giants.
The trail is home to Douglas Fir giants, some over 800 years old, with most of the younger trees around 300 years old, following a historic fire. The grand Douglas Fir trees can reach astonishing circumferences of nine metres.
Follow the “Big Tree Trail” to witness the star attraction, a towering Douglas Fir standing an impressive 72 metres (236 feet) tall, dwarfing even the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
South Trail – Big Tree and Living Forest
After walking the North Trail, you’ll notice a change when you cross the highway to the south side. There’s no boardwalk here, but the route is still flat and easy to follow. The South Trail is a 1-kilometre dirt path, so plan for proper footwear, especially on wet days when it can get muddy. You’ll also encounter exposed roots and fallen trees, particularly through the “Living Forest” section.
This trail is a bit more hands-on, with opportunities to step over logs, get close to the trees, and snap a few great photos along the way. Some of the oldest giants here are well over 800 years old, but most of the forest is around 300 years old. Much of the younger growth you see today regenerated after a major forest fire that swept through this part of Vancouver Island 300 to 400 years ago.
Get out your measuring tape! The granddaddy Douglas Firs can measure as much as nine metres in circumference! These amazing views will keep you walking to the refreshing shade of the deciduous trees lining the Cameron River, the perfect photo stop.
Make your way to the superstar of the hike. Follow “Big Tree Trail” right up to the largest Douglas Fir around. At 72 metres (236 feet) tall, this big fella stands higher than the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Helpful Information for Your Visit
- Parking: Limited parking is available on both sides of Highway 4; the area is often crowded during peak hours. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early or late in the day to avoid congestion.
- Facilities: Toilets are conveniently located on both sides of the highway.
- Pets: Dogs are welcome but must remain leashed.
- Biking: Cycling is permitted on roads only, not on park trails.
- Smoking: Strictly prohibited within MacMillan Provincial Park to protect its delicate ecosystem.
- On windy days, consider skipping your visit or waiting for calmer conditions, as large branches and trees can fall in old-growth forests.
Updated Safety and Infrastructure Information
Concrete Barriers Installed (January 2025) In response to persistent concerns about illegal parking and pedestrian safety, approximately 200 metres of concrete barriers were installed along both highway shoulders within Cathedral Grove in January 2025.
This initiative complements previous safety measures, including median pickets, no-U-turn signs, rumble strips, speed radars, and flashing pedestrian signs.
Even with recent upgrades, Cathedral Grove sits along one of Vancouver Island’s busiest two-lane highways. Traffic can be heavy, especially during peak season, so please follow all posted signs and park regulations to help keep visitors and pedestrians safe.
How to Get to Cathedral Grove
The park is easily reached by car or via organized tour groups, as public transportation is not available. It’s conveniently located 16 km east of Port Alberni and 30 km west of Parksville along Highway 4. Google Maps Link
Enjoy your visit to Cathedral Grove, a truly awe-inspiring destination that connects you deeply with the wonders of nature on Vancouver Island!
Add it to The List: Nanaimo to Tofino
Vancouver Island offers a lifetime of experiences. Highway 4 is a popular route for visitors. Cathedral Grove is a great addition to our list; we’ve compiled some of our favourite stops on the way to Tofino from Nanaimo.
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