In one of the oldest, untouched parts of Arkansas resides a tree. This particular tree is a towering giant with a history much older than Arkansas' statehood as well as the entire United States! We'll need to head deep into the White River National Wildlife Refuge to take the trail to meet this champion tree.
Walking around the Dale Bumpers White River National Wildlife Refuge is an extraordinary step back in time.
The National Wildlife Refuge is the second oldest of its kind in Arkansas. The refuge protects well over 100,000 acres of old-growth forests, wetlands, and bayou. It's a popular retreat for hunters, bird watchers, and nature photographers; but, those aren't the only reasons to visit the area.
One trail within the refuge will take you one of the oldest living things in Arkansas — the Bald Cypress Champion Tree.
The trail is an easy 2.3-mile out-and-back hike with a larger-than-life highlight. The Bald Cypress Champion is a quiet giant among the rest of the forest.
Although the tree's "birthday" is unknown, science has given us a decent estimate.
Thanks to the latest dendrochronology (the study of tree rings) it's evident that the tree germinated around the year 50 BC (± 300 years)! Not only did this tree manage to outwit logging companies but it also dodged any natural disaster or disease.
The tree is a designated champion not for its age, but for its stature.
Although its age is definitely worth an award! However, Arkansas Champion Trees are designated trees that are the biggest of their species both for girth and height. This giant is roughly 120-ft. high,14-ft. wide, and has about a 43-ft. circumference. It's difficult to photograph in the entire tree but seeing in person is just jaw-dropping (not to mention neck-craning)!
Any champion tree is worth the trek but Arkansas' Bald Cypress Champion is an all-around winner.
This is definitely one of those sights you need to see in person. You can learn about all of Arkansas' Champion Trees by visiting this website.
Have you taken the Champion Tree Trail to meet this ancient tree? We'd love to hear about your experience and see your photos in our Facebook group, Arkansas Nature Lovers. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why there’s nothing better than Arkansas’ stunning nature.
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