Chandelier Tree: Drive Thru One of California’s Most Famous Redwood Trees
In the early 20th century, “tree tunnels” were all the rage. Motorists rejoiced when they could cut a hole in a stately tree and transform it into a natural tunnel. California‘s towering Chandelier Tree—located in the town of Leggett—was created in the 1930s so that travelers would have an unforgettable photo opportunity.
In the 21st century, tree tunnels are frowned upon because they cause irreparable harm to towering trees that take centuries to grow. By some great miracle, the Chandelier Tree—which is named after elegant limbs that naturally hang like a chandelier—is still thriving nearly a century after its unfortunate turn as a tree tunnel. For a small fee, visitors can walk or drive beneath the stately Chandelier Tree and marvel at its resilience. The Chandelier Tree features a sign that lists its height, diameter, and age. It’s certainly not every day that you have the opportunity to drive thru a 2,100-year-old tree.
Leggett, nearly halfway between the borders of Canada and Mexico, can be found just off the vital US Highway 101. The renowned Chandelier Tree not only enthralls visitors with its majesty, but also features a gift shop and an inviting picnic area for an enhanced experience.
UnusualPlaces Field Notes
- Location
- Chandelier Drive-Thru Tree, Drive-Thru Tree Park, Leggett, California, USA
- Coordinates
- 39.8583984, -123.7192347
- Access
- Privately operated Drive-Thru Tree Park. Visitors may drive through if their vehicle fits, or walk through; oversized vehicles use the bypass and parking area. Follow operator instructions and do not treat the surrounding forest as open access.
- Admission
- Operator lists US$20 per vehicle; US$15 for motorcycles, bicycles, or walk-in visitors. Confirm at the park before entry.
- Time needed
- The operator publishes no timed visit estimate. It says visitors short on time can drive through the tree, take a photo and leave; its trails, picnic area and grove carvings make a longer stop possible. Actual time depends on any queue and how much of the park you explore.
- Best season
- The operator does not name a preferred season. It opens daily from 08:30 until dusk, weather permitting, and closes on Thanksgiving and Christmas. Check its current notice and local road/weather conditions before setting out; summer can be busy, with Visit California reporting about 500 cars a day on summer days.
- Opening hours
- Open daily from 08:30 until dusk, weather permitting. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day; check the operator site for weather or seasonal changes.
- Location checked
- 2026-10-20
- Facts checked
- 2026-10-21
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