Trees of Mystery
This iconic roadside attraction features massive redwood trees with unusual growth patterns, a canopy trail suspended high in the forest, and a scenic gondola ride. It is famously guarded by towering, talking statues of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox.
- Admission
- $30.00 adults, $26.00 seniors, $15.00 kids (3-12), under 3 free
- Hours
- Open daily, typically 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (hours vary seasonally)
- Duration
- 2-3 hours
- Parking
- Free parking on-site, with designated spaces for RVs and trailers
- Access
- Paved main trails are wheelchair accessible; the gondola accommodates standard wheelchairs, but the suspension canopy bridges are not accessible.
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Opened in 1946, Trees of Mystery is a classic roadside attraction nestled in the heart of California's ancient redwood forest. Visitors are greeted by towering, interactive statues of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox, which have beckoned travelers along Highway 101 for decades.
The park features a groomed interpretive trail showcasing unique redwood formations, such as the Cathedral Tree and the Elephant Tree. A major highlight is the SkyTrail, an aerial tramway that glides through the forest canopy to a scenic mountain observation deck offering panoramic views.
Visitors can also walk among the treetops on the Redwood Canopy Trail, a series of suspension bridges suspended high above the forest floor. The experience is rounded out by the End of the Trail Museum, which houses one of the country's finest private collections of Native American artifacts.
Ratings
attractionVisitor Tips
- ◆ Arrive early in the day to beat the crowds and secure easy parking, especially during the peak summer travel season.
- ◆ Wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes, as the trails involve some elevation changes and uneven terrain.
- ◆ Allocate time to explore the End of the Trail Museum at the end of your visit, as the collection is remarkably extensive.
- ◆ Bring a light jacket or layers, as the redwood canopy keeps the forest floor shaded and significantly cooler than the surrounding areas.
Heads Up
- ◆ The Redwood Canopy Trail features swaying suspension bridges high off the ground, which may not be suitable for those with a severe fear of heights.
- ◆ Cell service can be highly spotty or nonexistent along this stretch of Highway 101, so download maps in advance.
- ◆ The SkyTrail gondolas are fully enclosed and may feel cramped for individuals prone to claustrophobia.
Common questions
Can I bring my dog to Trees of Mystery?
Yes, well-behaved dogs on a leash are allowed throughout the park, including on the trails, the SkyTrail gondola, and inside the gift shop. Only the Redwood Canopy Trail suspension bridges are restricted for pets.
Do you have to pay admission to see the giant Paul Bunyan statue?
No, the giant statues of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox are located at the front of the property and can be viewed and photographed for free from the parking lot. You only need to pay admission to access the trails, canopy walk, and gondola.
How long does it take to walk through Trees of Mystery?
Most visitors spend between 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the entire attraction. The main groomed trail is just under a mile long and includes the canopy walk and the gondola ride.
Is the SkyTrail gondola included in the admission ticket?
Yes, round-trip rides on the SkyTrail gondola are included in the price of your general admission ticket. There is no extra fee to ride it up to the mountain observation deck.
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- Klamath Tour-Thru Tree · Klamath, California
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