The hardest part of this hike? Finding the trailhead. At the time of writing, the trail starts from a small pullout on the Rosander main logging road, marked with flagging tape. The first section descends through thick second-growth forest before abruptly transitioning into old-growth as you cross into Pacific Rim National Park.

This 2.1 km out-and-back trail near Nitinat Lake, BC, is considered moderate and takes 35 minutes each way. The destination? The Cheewhat Giant is Canada's largest tree. The hike isn't overly strenuous, but the trail is lightly travelled and can be overgrown later in the year. You'll pass plenty of massive trees along the way, making it easy to think you've already reached the giant—but trust me, you'll know when you see it.

Photographers will love this trail because of the Cheewhat Giant and the many impressive trees. The best light is in overcast conditions. Sunlight creates a harsh contrast that can be tricky to manage in post-processing.

If you've made the trek out here, it's also worth driving the extra 9 km to Carmanah Walbran Provincial Park—another spectacular old-growth forest you won't want to miss.