Are you ready for another road trip? Embark on a fun and educational vacation to see each of these famous and historically important trees scattered throughout North America. These one-of-a-kind destinations are as exciting as they are unforgettable for adults and children alike. Standing at the base of these behemoths, you’re sure to feel amazed.
General Sherman is no longer the tallest or oldest tree in the world. However, it still holds the record as the largest tree in the world when measured by volume. This giant sequoia is true to its name, standing at 275 feet tall with a base diameter of 36 feet. It’s an awe-inspiring 2,000-year-old tree found in California’s Sequoia National Park. Walk right up and see it in person!
This Callery pear tree was badly damaged during the 9/11 attacks. Back then, this pear tree was only eight feet tall and wasn’t expected to survive. Fortunately, it was nursed back to health and the thriving tree was replanted at the National September 11 Memorial. Drive to New York and spend some time reflecting at this resilient symbol.
This Treaty Oak in Austin, Texas is one of the last surviving members of the Council Oaks. The Council Oaks was a grove of 14 trees that, hundreds of years ago, served as a meeting spot for local Native American tribes. Together, the trees were host to war councils, dances, religious ceremonies, conferences and treaty signings. Today, a park has been built around this Treaty Oak and visitors can spend an afternoon in its shade.
Shortly after the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing, this American elm tree became a centerpiece for the Oklahoma City National Memorial. Near the tree, a plaque reads “The spirit of this city and this nation will not be defeated; our deeply rooted faith sustains us.” Decades later, this tree remains a symbol of human perseverance and thousands of the oak’s seedlings have been planted throughout the country. Spend an afternoon walking around the memorial and reading the inscriptions.
The Methuselah Tree is the second oldest living tree in America. It’s located in the Methuselah Grove, the same grove as the oldest tree in the world, an unnamed Great Basin Bristlecone Pine. The exact locations of both trees are hidden for protection. Explore the grove inside the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest in Inyo National Forest and speculate which one is Methuselah!
In 1971, Astronaut Stuart Roosa traveled to the moon aboard Apollo 14 while carrying a packet of seeds. Even though the seed’s container burst open in space, most of the seeds germinated after returning to earth. Dozens of these “moon trees” have been planted across the nation, from a Redwood in Capital Park in Sacramento, California to a Loblolly Pine at the Society of American Foresters in Bethesda, Maryland. Set out on a nationwide adventure to find them all.
Start planning your educationally-rich and nature-focused adventure today! As you plan out your road trip routes, book each night at Best Western Hotel & Resorts to guarantee a great night’s rest. Each morning, you’ll wake up refreshed and ready for another day of driving, walking and exploring new locations!