The Koksilah River Ancient Forest is a stunning stand of old-growth Douglas-fir on private lands that rivals Cathedral Grove’s beauty and scale. The trees range from four to six feet in diameter, with the largest ones reaching over eight feet across at the base. Some of the tallest reach 230-260 feet (70-80 meters) tall! After more than a century of industrial logging, old-growth Douglas-firs have been reduced to 1% of their original numbers on Vancouver Island. Getting a chance to hike through a forest full of them is a rare and incredible experience.
The forest standing here today owes its survival partly to two fallers, who in 1989, refused to cut the magnificent trees down. In the years following, the Koksilah Ancient Forest faced much uncertainty, nearly being logged several times but always being saved in the nick of time. Finally, in 2022, the forest was deferred from logging for the next 40 years as part of Mosaic’s BigCoast Forest Climate Initiative, buying time to find a more permanent solution. A Provincial Land Acquisition Fund that would help purchase and protect endangered areas on private lands is one potential answer.
Much credit goes to the hard work of local advocates, notably Warrick Whitehead, who tirelessly spoke up for the area’s protection. Conservation groups, such as the Ancient Forest Alliance, have also played an important role in helping safeguard the area as well.
The forest is located alongside the winding Koksilah River, which has excellent swimming areas and a Provincial Campground nearby. Another site worth visiting in the area is the Kinsol Trestle, one of the world’s largest wooden train trestles. Enjoy the big trees!
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