The World’s Tallest Tree Is Less Than 10 Hours From Boise

The tallest tree in Idaho is about five and a half hours from Boise, in the Nez Perce -Clearwater National Forest near the town of Elk River. More specifically, the tree, called The Champion Tree or The King Tree, is on the Giant Red Cedar National Recreation Trail. It is a Giant Red Cedar that stands 177 feet tall. It is an impressive tree but not even close to the tallest tree in America or the world.

That title belongs to a tree discovered 18 years ago in California's Redwood National Park. The Coast Redwood Tree, standing over 380 feet tall, dwarfs Idaho's Champion Tree and stands majestically above the rest of the forest. Chris Atkins and Michael Taylor discovered the tree in August 2006. It was named Hyperion after one of the 12 Greek Titans that preceded the Olympian Gods. The name means "The High One" or "The One Who Goes Before The Sun."

Once you arrive at the Redwood National Park, the quest to find Hyperion begins. Its exact location is a closely guarded secret, a measure taken to protect it from the potential harm of tourism. The area around it is off-limits, and venturing too close could result in a fine. The thrill of the search is part of the experience.

While you might not see Hyperion on your visit, you could get close. The forest's trees are impressive, and many are among the tallest trees in the world.

Hyperion, believed to be 600 to 800 years old, may be the tallest tree in the world, but it's not the largest. That title goes to General Sherman. To witness its grandeur, you'll need to embark on a 12-hour car trip north to Sequoia Nation Park. The journey is a testament to the awe-inspiring size and age of these natural wonders.