Washington’s Tree of Life.
Photo: Twitter
”tree of lifeThe ancient Sitka spruce in Washington’s Olympic National Park is slowly dying from the ravages of time and nature. This gravity-defying tall tree has captivated tourists for years with its unique appearance and tenacity. It is held high by its spreading roots. Clinging precariously to the crumbling coastal cliffs of Kalaloch Beach, the tree is already sliding deeper into the caverns below as a result of recent winter storms hastening its momentum. Collapse.
unique natural wonders
The permanence of nature is proven by the Tree of Life. The spruce appears to be floating in the air, its huge roots acting as a bridge across a small cliff. Despite being 40 feet tall, it looks just like a bonsai and is a sight to behold. However, significant erosion has expanded the caverns below, putting this breathtaking view at risk. The News Tribune claims spruce trees have already fallen five feet in recent weeks.
Until recently, this tree was known primarily to locals and curious beachgoers. But with the growing popularity of social media and hiking blogs, the tree has become well-known around the world, earning a near-perfect 4.9-star review on Yelp. One commentator said the tree was “a testament to all of us striving and continuing to do our best to live life to the fullest.”
Erosion that threatened trees
A few decades ago, Sitka spruce began to suffer from erosion. Every drop of water flowing toward the shore gradually eroded the foundation of the tree that was once anchored to the solid ground on the cliff. The cave that this tree now straddles was formed when this small river slowly carved out the canyon below. A culvert was built atop the tree in the 1960s to provide water to a nearby campground. Unfortunately, this attempt poured water directly into the base of the tree, further eroding the soil and making the situation even worse.
The National Park Service’s efforts to stabilize the bluffs inadvertently exacerbated the erosion. Nevertheless, the tree endured, showing remarkable fortitude as it held on to the crumbling terrain.
Impact of recent storms
Last month, the situation worsened considerably due to strong storms. The cave under the tree was flooded by the storm surge, and the soil supporting the roots was washed away by runoff from above. A local photographer said logs were swept into the cave by the tide, providing temporary support at the base of the tree. Still, the tree is now at risk of collapse due to its weight and the strain on its roots from constant erosion.
Melting glaciers, ocean rapids and environmental changes are degrading this tree faster. The National Park Service has taken no action. “Let nature take its course,” said Janet Cole of Olympic National Park.
slow inevitable decline
The tree is still standing, but its future is uncertain. The tree eventually succumbs to gravity because the roots can no longer bear the weight. I don’t know if it will collapse with a spectacular impact in front of the guests, or if it will gradually collapse in the silence of the night. However, the lifespan of the tree is definitely coming to an end.
A good vantage point to view the ultimate fall of this tree is from the Quinault Tribe, which has a preserve nearby. The tree’s location, known as “Kalaloch,” means “a good place for landing” in the indigenous language. This ancient tree is now nearing its final resting place after growing in that once favorable location.
changing landscape
As logging progresses gradually, major changes are occurring in the surrounding environment. The fragile balance of this coastal environment is further threatened by changes in the landscape caused by melting glaciers and rising sea levels. The disappearance of the Tree of Life is a reminder of how delicate even the most robust aspects of nature can be in the face of constant environmental change.
Kalaloch Lodge is nearby, and visitors who want to see the tree still standing can find it along US 101 just west of Kalaloch Campground.
