Hiking To The World's Tallest Tree May Land You In Jail. Here's Why

In 2006, two naturalists pinpointed the location of the world's tallest living tree in Redwood National Park. If you had a once in a lifetime opportunity to visit this iconic tree, would you? If you said yes, you might not realize it but you'd probably end up in jail or at least heavily fined for the trip. After years of environmental degradation, Redwood National and State Parks made it illegal to venture into the area surrounding the tree, which is named Hyperion after a Titan from Greek mythology. Too many visitors without a good grasp of the Leave No Trace principles has left a noticeable mark on the area leading to Hyperion, with trash littered on the forest floor.

Hyperion is a coast redwood (Sequoia sempervirens), a species famous for their height, size, and age. As of 2019, the tree measured over 380 feet tall – which is taller than the Statue of Liberty by 75 feet! Although the exact location in a remote area of Redwood National Park is not advertised, many visitors have made it their goal to see the tree in person. But if you're trying to avoid making a massive hiking mistake at all costs, it's in your best interest to stay on the marked paths. In 2022, the park imposed a penalty of up to six months of jail time and a $5,000 maximum fine for anyone who went off the beaten path to seek out Hyperion.

One of the main reasons you'll be in big trouble if you go off the beaten path looking for Hyperion is the damage you'll cause to your surroundings. Redwood trees have shallow root systems, which are easily damaged by trampling the ground above them. Compaction due to increased activity around the base of Hyperion has already resulted in significant damage to the roots. No ferns are growing at the base of the tree anymore, which is indicative of the environmental disruption caused by hikers. 

The rangers at Redwood National Park also like to note the lack of awe that Hyperion inspires in person. Unlike other famous redwood trees, Hyperion has a smaller base. It's also situated in an awkward spot on a hillside that would require you to bushwhack your way through the underbrush. 

Instead of risking jail time to hike to Hyperion, visit one of the other incredible trails and paths explicitly marked out for use. If you love American national parks that feel like they're on a different continent, look no further than the Grove of Titans trail in Redwood National Park. This unique trail was unveiled in 2022 with a special elevated boardwalk to prevent destruction of the delicate ecosystem of the forest. There are many areas where you can experience the feeling of standing among giants without potentially causing them irreparable harm. Plus, you won't risk making it one of the most expensive hiking trips of your lifetime.