MacMillan Park, home to Cathedral Grove, is on central Vancouver Island along Highway 4, about 25 kilometres west of Qualicum Beach and 16 kilometres east of Port Alberni. BC Parks calls it one of the most accessible stands of giant Douglas fir on Vancouver Island.
The park protects old-growth forest within the Coastal Western Hemlock zone and is a classic short stop on the road to Port Alberni and the west coast.
Cathedral Grove is famous for towering ancient Douglas fir trees, with some more than 800 years old. Trails on both sides of Highway 4 lead through the forest. The south side has the largest Douglas firs, including one more than nine metres in circumference, while the north side has ancient western red cedar near Cameron Lake.
BC Parks also highlights the story of the 1997 New Year's Day windstorm, which toppled hundreds of huge trees and changed parts of the trail system. Fallen trees remain part of the forest's renewal, opening the canopy and feeding future growth. Wildlife values include old-growth habitat used by woodpeckers, owls, amphibians, deer, elk, black bear, and cougar.
Walk the marked loop trails, use the raised viewing platform, photograph old-growth forest, watch for wildlife signs, and take the virtual tour before or after visiting. Cycling and e-bikes are limited to roadways.
Use caution parking and crossing Highway 4. Stay on designated trails, avoid the park on windy days because trees and branches can fall, keep pets leashed, and note that smoking is prohibited.
