Valley of the Giants Trail

As of January 2025, the Valley of the Giants Trail in Oregon is unfortunately closed due to a massive landslide that has impacted access to the trailhead. It's advisable to check the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) website for the most current information on its status before planning a visit.

The trail features a mix of terrain. It typically starts with a downhill section through a forest, leading to a metal bridge over the Siletz River. After crossing, the path ascends upstream through a primordial forest. Sections can be fairly steep and potentially slippery when wet. You might also encounter large, downed trees that require climbing over or through.

This trail is renowned for preserving a rare remnant of untouched old-growth forest in Oregon's Coast Range. It features some of Oregon's largest Douglas firs and Western Hemlocks, many 200 feet tall and 400 to 450 years old. The preserve, designated an Outstanding Natural Area, offers an awe-inspiring experience beneath towering ancient trees.

The route is approximately 2.36 kilometers (1.3 miles) long. While the komoot estimate is around 44 minutes, the varied terrain with steep and potentially slippery sections, plus the desire to take in the ancient forest, means it could take a bit longer, especially if you pause to admire the trees.

While generally considered 'easy' to 'not difficult', the trail does have steep and potentially slippery sections, especially when wet. This might pose a challenge for very young children or those new to hiking. The challenging gravel road access to the trailhead also adds to the overall effort required.

Information regarding dog policies for the Valley of the Giants Trail in Oregon is not explicitly detailed in the provided sources. It's best to check with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) directly for current regulations regarding pets in the Outstanding Natural Area.

Reaching the trailhead for the Valley of the Giants Trail in Oregon has historically been the most challenging part. It requires navigating about 28 miles of confusing, unmarked gravel logging roads, a drive that can take over an hour from Falls City. Due to the current closure, access is completely impacted.

The Valley of the Giants is designated as an Outstanding Natural Area and an Area of Critical Environmental Concern by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). While specific entrance fees or permits for the trail itself are not mentioned, it's always wise to check the official BLM website (blm.gov) for any current regulations, fees, or required passes for the area, especially given its protected status.

The primary attraction along the route is the incredible old-growth forest itself, featuring colossal Douglas firs and Western Hemlocks. You'll be immersed in a quiet, serene environment beneath these towering trees, with views of the Siletz River. The area is officially known as Valley of The Giants.

Historically, the trail was best visited during drier months to avoid the potentially slippery conditions on steep sections. However, given the current closure due to a landslide, the best time to visit is when the trail has been officially reopened by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).

Yes, there are several other trails across different regions that share the name 'Valley of the Giants'. These include trails in Louisville, Kentucky; North Georgia; Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, Washington; Brandon, South Dakota; and Walpole Wilderness, Western Australia. Each offers a unique experience, often featuring large or ancient trees specific to their region.