Shrine Drive-Thru Tree photo 1
© hillary h · CC BY-SA 2.0
Shrine Drive-Thru Tree photo 2
© hillary h · CC BY-SA 2.0
Shrine Drive-Thru Tree photo 3
© docoverachiever · CC BY 2.0
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Shrine Drive-Thru Tree

📍 13708 Avenue of the Giants, Myers Flat, CA 95554

Drive right through a living redwood giant at this classic, family-owned roadside attraction. Split naturally by fire and wind centuries ago, this ancient tree also features a drive-on log and whimsical children's playhouses carved from redwood logs. It is one of only three drive-through redwoods in the world.

Admission
$15 per vehicle
Hours
Daily 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (hours may vary seasonally)
Duration
30-45 minutes
Parking
On-site parking available for visitors
Access
Accessible by vehicle to drive through; paved areas around the gift shop, but some dirt paths may be uneven
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The Shrine Drive-Thru Tree, located in Myers Flat along California's scenic Avenue of the Giants, is one of the state's classic roadside relics. Unlike other drive-thru trees that were completely hand-carved, this giant redwood's opening was primarily formed by a natural chimney fire before being widened in the early 20th century.

Visitors can drive their vehicles directly through the trunk of this living, towering giant. The site also features charming family-friendly side attractions, including a walk-through tree for children, miniature tree houses, and a drive-on log.

This privately-owned attraction captures the nostalgic spirit of mid-century American road trips. It offers a quick, memorable detour that highlights the sheer scale of the region's ancient coastal redwoods.

Ratings

roadside attraction
Historical Significance
3/5
Cultural Relevance
4/5
Fun Factor
4/5
Accessibility
4/5
Photo Worthiness
5/5
Interactivity
4/5
Kid Friendliness
5/5
Popularity
4/5
Pet Friendly ✓Gift Shop on Site ✓Good for Groups ✓

Visitor Tips

  • ◆ Measure your vehicle's width before attempting to drive through, as larger SUVs and trucks will not fit.
  • ◆ Bring cash for the small admission fee, as it makes the entry process much quicker during peak hours.
  • ◆ Don't miss the drive-on log and the miniature fairy-tale treehouses, which are great photo opportunities for children.
  • ◆ Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid peak crowds and long lines of cars waiting to drive through.

Heads Up

  • ◆ The opening is very narrow (approximately 7 feet wide by 7 feet high); do not attempt to drive through with full-sized trucks, large SUVs, or vehicles with wide side mirrors.
  • ◆ Keep a close eye on children near the drive-on log and elevated structures, as supervision is required.
  • ◆ Scratches to vehicle side mirrors and paint are common if you do not align your vehicle perfectly or if your car is too wide.

Common questions

How big of a car can fit through the Shrine Drive-Thru Tree?

The tree opening is approximately 7 feet wide by 7 feet high, which accommodates most standard passenger cars, station wagons, and compact SUVs. Large trucks, large SUVs, campers, and vehicles with roof racks will not fit through the opening.

Is there anything else to do at the Shrine Drive-Thru Tree?

Yes, the property features a drive-on log ramp, two two-story children's treehouses carved out of redwood logs, a walk-through tree, and a gift shop.

Can you walk through the tree if your car is too big?

Yes, visitors are welcome to walk through the opening of the tree if their vehicle is too large or if they prefer not to drive through.

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