Imagine this: You're seated under a towering canopy of ancient redwoods, the scent of pine and the mouth-watering aroma of freshly grilled burgers in the air. As you wait for your burger to cook, you walk inside a 78-foot tall hollowed-out redwood tree. This is not a scene from a fairy tale; it's a reality at the Chimney Tree Grill, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Redwood country. This NorCal burger spot is in a prime location to enjoy lunch and explore the redwoods!

Chimney Tree Grill, dining is more than just eating; it's an experience you'll never forget! The restaurant is situated next to the Living Chimney Tree, a natural wonder that has captivated visitors for more than a century. This 78-foot-tall redwood was hollowed out by a fire in 1914. This created a magical space where visitors could actually step inside its vast, natural room and gaze up through the chimney-like opening to the sky above. This unique backdrop sets the stage for an extraordinary dining experience, one that combines the best of nature with fresh, local cuisine.

The "room" inside the tree is pretty spacious! At 12.5 feet wide, an entire family can explore the inside of this enormous tree.

Admission to the Living Chimney Tree is free, making it a perfect complement to your dining experience.

To get inside, visitors walk through a door installed into the side of the tree.

Be sure to gaze up while you're inside the tree to really appreciate just how tall these redwoods get.

The Chimney Tree Grill opened back in 1978 and has seen several owners over the decades.

Today, Chimney Tree Grill is committed to serving fresh and local ingredients, including their grass-fed burgers that come with a wide variety of toppings to choose from.

Their burgers are cooked-to-order and can be ordered a la carte or with some of your favorite sides.

Try the mushroom Swiss burger with a side of French fries. Larger appetites might enjoy the 1-pound aptly named Bigfoot Burger. Order a selection of fried appetizers (zucchini, jalapeno poppers, etc). And be sure to order one of their delicious milkshakes that pair well with the burgers.

What sets the Chimney Tree Grill apart is not just the food, but the atmosphere. The restaurant offers indoor seating that looks out to the forest, as well as outdoor seating, allowing guests to dine amidst the towering Redwoods.

The serene, natural setting provides a perfect backdrop for enjoying a meal, whether you're relaxing after a hike or simply soaking in the beauty of the grove. For those traveling in RVs, the Grill offers ample room for parking, making it a convenient stop for road trippers and adventurers alike.

The Chimney Tree Grill is located off of Avenue of the Giants.

This prime location makes for the perfect lunch stop on your tour of the redwoods.

If you take a trip to the Chimney Tree Grill and Avenue of the Giants, we recommend you also visit the Chandelier Drive-Thru Tree, Confusion Hill, and Orick, to see the wild Roosevelt Elk.

Need a place to stay when in Phillipsville, CA? Take a look at the Avenue of the Giants Pepperwood Place, and book your stay on VRBO!