When you think of historical landmarks in Washington, you probably think of places like Fort Vancouver and Port Townsend’s downtown structures. But one of our truly unique historic icons isn’t a building at all — it’s a tree. And if you’ve never experienced our Tree Root Cave for yourself, you’re really missing out.

The Tree Root Cave is located just outside of Forks in Olympic National Park.

Caryn899 / TripAdvisor It’s also known as The Tree of Life, The Runaway Tree, and the Kalaloch Tree.

The tree in question is a Sitka spruce, the largest type of spruce.

Rocardi / TripAdvisor As you can see, the tree appears to be hanging on by a limb.

There’s a lot of mystery surrounded both the tree and the natural phenomenon that allows it to hang there so delicately without collapsing.

Ernie S / TripAdvisor That’s why it’s known as the Tree of Life.

Beneath the tree lies the Tree Root Cave, a cool and shallow respite from the elements.

DoloresJacoby.Let’sTravel / TripAdvisor Despite how low the tree sags, plenty of people go inside the cave when they visit.

So how does this mysterious tree stay green, you might ask?

Cali4niahiker / TripAdvisor If you go inside the cave, you’ll see a stream fall into it and flow out into the ocean. The stream washes out the soil underneath the roots, keeping everything fresh.

Good news: This resilient cave is easy to find and easy to each.

christinahO5389NO / TripAdvisor Park at the Kalaloch Campground right off Highway 101 near Kalaloch Lodge, walk to the beach, turn right at the bottom of the steps, and you’ll see it.

Even if cave dwelling isn’t really your thing, getting an up-close-and-personal glimpse of these tree roots will blow your mind.

picklepedro_ / TripAdvisor This tree really is amazing. And as you can see, every year could be its last, which somehow makes it even more special.

Washington’s Tree Root Cave is well worth exploring. And while you’re checking out the Olympic Peninsula, make some time for these spots.

Caryn899 / TripAdvisor

It’s also known as The Tree of Life, The Runaway Tree, and the Kalaloch Tree.

Rocardi / TripAdvisor

As you can see, the tree appears to be hanging on by a limb.

Ernie S / TripAdvisor

That’s why it’s known as the Tree of Life.

DoloresJacoby.Let’sTravel / TripAdvisor

Despite how low the tree sags, plenty of people go inside the cave when they visit.

Cali4niahiker / TripAdvisor

If you go inside the cave, you’ll see a stream fall into it and flow out into the ocean. The stream washes out the soil underneath the roots, keeping everything fresh.

christinahO5389NO / TripAdvisor

Park at the Kalaloch Campground right off Highway 101 near Kalaloch Lodge, walk to the beach, turn right at the bottom of the steps, and you’ll see it.

picklepedro_ / TripAdvisor

This tree really is amazing. And as you can see, every year could be its last, which somehow makes it even more special.

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