An iconic stop along Washington State’s coastline, The Tree of Life often makes the cut of any “must-see” list featured on various travel blogs and websites (like this one 🤪). While it’s technically just a large tree with massive, exposed roots clinging dramatically to the edge of a small sandy cliff at Kalaloch Beach, it’s still a fascinating sight and one that seemingly defy’s gravity. Also known as the Root Cave, it’s easy to reach and well worth a visit if you’re in the area. Since it’s such a quick and easy stop, there’s simply no reason not to check it out!
Free to visit, The Tree of Life is located near Kalaloch Campground, just off the staircase that leads from the parking lot down to the beach, making it very easy to access. Located approximately 45 minutes from Forks, 2 hours from Port Angeles, and 3 hours from Seattle, it’s a convenient and worthwhile stop on any Washington coastline or Olympic National Park trip. It’s also about an hour from the famous La Push Beach (calling all Twilight fans) but only 10 minutes from Ruby Beach. It’s also just a stone’s throw from Big Cedar, another quick but fun stop along the coast.
What makes the Tree of Life so popular is its remarkable resilience against nature and being swept away by the sands of time. Due to erosion, its massive roots are now completely exposed, dramatically stretched between two small cliff edges – yet the tree continues to thrive, clinging to life (hence its name). This large spruce stands strong and vibrant despite no longer being anchored deep into the ground like nearly every other tree in the world. A small creek runs beneath it, weaving through its exposed roots, visible only if you walk up close and peak beneath the tree.
While climbing on the actual Tree of Life is strongly discouraged and likely to earn you some severe judgment from anyone standing nearby, a large log positioned directly in front of it offers a great vantage point for snapping photos of this famous landmark. Thankfully, we didn’t witness anyone stupid or self-absorbed enough to climb onto the tree’s roots. However, it’s safe to assume it has happened before and it will happen again. Please don’t be that person, as doing so can seriously damage this tree hanging shakily onto life by a thread. With every storm that hits this iconic spot, The Tree of Life inches closer to its inevitable fate.
After we ooohhh and ahhhhed at this natural wonder defying gravity, we explored Kalaloch Beach, taking in the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and watching the massive waves sweeping up on the beach. This is definitely not a swimming beach, as not only is the water freezing cold (especially during the fall and winter when we visited), but the waves are extreme and powerful. Nonetheless, it’s a beautiful place to wander. We enjoyed exploring the scattered driftwood and rocks along the shoreline. We had fun playing a little “Where’s Waldo” game, spotting the small waterfalls carved into the cliffs along the coast.
Overall, I promise that if you search for “top things to see and do in Washington State,” as a well-known and beloved spot, The Tree of Life will almost certainly make the list. While not as famous as places like the Hoh Rainforest or Sol Duc Falls, it may not rank in the top three, but it will be there. What makes it especially appealing is how quick and easy it is to visit, with just 10 to 15 minutes enough to fangirl (or fanboy) out. Its accessibility makes it a perfect addition to any western Washington itinerary, especially if you’re already exploring the coastline. Come and marvel at this magnificent natural specimen that will not give up on life!
