Explore the Trails: Big Tree Recreation Area

Big Tree is a 44-hectare (109-acre) Provincial Recreation Site managed by the Sunshine Coast Regional District. The park’s name isn’t a misnomer; this spot is home to a scattered grove of old-growth Douglas fir trees. One tree in particular—believed to be the largest existing tree on the Sunshine Coast—is the centerpiece of the park site. 

The 500-metre path (1km round-trip) to the ‘Big Tree’ is wheelchair accessible. The site also is home to several other trails maintained to different standards.

Location & Trail Notes 

The park is located approximately 9 km north of Sechelt on Highway 101 and about 400 metres before Trout Lake. Take the Halfmoon-Carlson Forest Service Road which leaves the highway on the right side at a small rock quarry; you’ll see new highway signs on both sides of Highway 101 as you approach the turnoff that say “500 metres to turn to Big Tree''. Head down the main logging road for 2.5 km—ignore the spurs on the left and right. The road is an active forest service road, so please watch for traffic and be aware of soft or rough spots. As soon as you pass the bridge, the trailhead and parking area are immediately to your right. 

There are two main trails from the parking lot. One is a short, wheelchair accessible path that leads to the ‘Big Tree,’ and the other is a little longer and follows a less direct path. The accessible path is 500 metres in length, or 1-kilometre round-trip. It’s a wide, smooth path that winds through old-growth Douglas fir trees that reach breathtaking heights, along with stands of second-growth forest.

Safety Notice 

You can help preserve Big Tree Recreation Area by being a respectful and responsible visitor. Please adhere to the guidelines and protocols below as you explore the lands of the shíshálh Nation: 

• Leave no trace. If you pack it in, you need to pack it out.

• Dogs are welcome, but they must be kept on a leash at all times; you’ll also need to pick up any dog waste and dispose of it properly. 

• Be WildSafe. The Sunshine Coast is home to a variety of wildlife big and small, including húpit (deer), k’éyich (elk), s-chétxwen (bear), s-kw’él ḵw’aḵ’-ám (cougar), and wálaksya (bobcat). Learn more about local wildlife and how to reduce conflict at  WildSafeBC.com.

• Stay on designated and marked trails. Do not contribute to unauthorized trail development.

• Unmarked hazards may exist in parks and on trails, so be sure to stay aware of your surroundings. Trail conditions vary and can be affected by wind and other weather conditions.

• Fires are not permitted in the park.

Trail Map, Amenities, and More Information

Visit the Sunshine Coast Regional District website for a trail map of Big Tree Recreation Site.

Amenities at Big Tree Recreation Site include a picnic table area and a recently refurbished outhouse located along the trail.