Sandpoint, ID

One of the most exquisite cedar groves you’ll ever see is just a hop, skip and a jump from Sandpoint, Idaho. Walk along the easy path to see very old, very gnarled trees that grow to eight feet in diameter and a staggering one hundred seventy five feet tall. Striated, fibrous rusty red trunks take on fantastical shapes through time. The pendulous green, scaly foliage adds a drapey quality to the rarified air in the grove that’s been growing in peace for over two hundred years. It always feels moist and somehow quiet among these giants. Happily, it is usually not too crowded with visitors so you can commune with these magnificent trees in your own way. Do visit during the off-seasons; spring and fall. If you plan to visit in the winter, which is also an exceptional time, give the folks at the Kootenai National Forest a call (406) 293-6211 to make sure all roads are open. Bring cross-country skis for a real treat. P.S. Have some respect—stay on the paths and don’t be a litterbug.

Directions: Take Highway 200 past the Montana border to Hwy 56, which is the Bull River Highway. Before you get to Bull Lake, you’ll see a sign on the left that will point the way.