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If you’re looking for something a little strange, maybe a little magical, to see this weekend, visit the famous little douglas fir that stands atop a floating stump in the middle of Fairy Lake.
Yes a tree – a bonsai tree that has managed to root itself into a single log peaking out of the water, demanding attention from all of its visitors.
A popular photography location and easy to get to, visit this determined fir by pulling over along the Pacific Marine Road about 8km from Port Renfrew. On your way towards Lake Cowichan, you’ll find the pristine Fairy Lake, and on it, everyone’s favourite neighbourhood bonsai.
No official parking lot, just a well-used gravel shoulder, evidence of the attraction this evergreen has for passersby. Best photos are taken from the road but to get another vantage point, head down a short path through grass and shrubs to the water’s edge. Watch your step, during the rainy season mud abounds!
The climate of Vancouver Island proves itself to be a winner for helping this tree survive. The stump size and location naturally limit its growth, giving this little guy the distinction of being a rare, naturally occurring bonsai. The sunken log provides nutrients and the tree is along for the ride.
Estimated to be approximately 40 to 50 years old, it is still standing after countless rain storms and wind gusts over the years.
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If you are looking to stay and explore the local trails or do some fishing, swimming and paddle boarding – there is a simple, but nice campground located on fairy lake with 36 well-spaced sites. This popular campground offers some sites that are large enough to be RV-friendly. First come first serve. There is also a convenient beach area for launching kayaks, paddle boards and fishing boats. A great way to see the Fairy Lake Bonsai Tree up close and from unique angles.
Trails
There is a 3.5 km trail from the Fairy Lake campground through low floodplain area. The trail is marked but overgrown and often flooded. Great for a hike while camping.
If you want a unique hiking experience, we recommend heading to Port Renfrew and making the loop to Botanical Beach or one of the great beaches along the Juan de Fuca Trail.
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Pack Out:
We love Vancouver Island and want to keep the natural beauty. Please respect the places you visit and pack out what you pack in and leave the area better than when you arrived. We all know how much trash can spoil an experience and the environment, so please help us keep it clean!
Wildlife:
Vancouver Island is a land of natural beauty and abundant wildlife. Please be aware of your surroundings and take the usual precautions for personal and wildlife safety.
Black bears, cougars and even wolves are common on Vancouver Island for more on Wildlife Safety Click Here
Tide and Seasonal Safety:
Changing seasons and tides can have a drastic effect on most locations on Vancouver Island. Please be cautious as the information in this post may vary depending on the time of year and weather. Make sure to check for current weather and tide information before you make your journey!
When visiting the beach, it’s essential to pay attention and stay safe! Please be cautious walking on the shore during high tide. At this time, some areas may not be accessible. Click here for the tides in your area. Be aware of ocean currents before swimming, paddle boarding or kayaking.
Land Acknowledgement:
We would like to acknowledge the land we appreciate daily within the 50 First Nations that make up the traditional territories of the Coast Salish, Nuu chah nulth, and Kwakiutl–the first peoples of Vancouver Island .
Disclaimer:
The information on this website should not be taken as accurate, complete or up-to-date. Please check and look into the information yourself. We do not assume any liabilities for the use of this information. It is unreasonable to rely solely upon the information from this website.
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