There’s a Chatty Paul Bunyan & a Musical Forest in This Odd California Attraction

The Trees of Mystery in Klamath, California

Ever seen a redwood tree tie itself in a knot? That’s not even the weirdest things in this old-school roadside spot. There’s also a 3,000 year-old tree root and a forest that “sings.” And yep, that’s a hilariously tall Paul Bunyan giving you a friendly wave. Here’s more about the Trees of Mystery, plus how much it’ll cost you to visit.

You Can “Talk” to Paul Bunyan

Paul Bunyan’s massive 49-foot figure waves, blinks, and chats with you. Don’t worry, it’s not haunted. Inside him is a hidden operator who makes jokes, asks questions, and might even mention what you’re wearing. Sort of like Disney, but right beside a forest in the middle of nowhere.

PS.

Try asking him about his logging adventures or his relationship with Babe. Just do it.

Poor Paul Melted Once

Paul Bunyan has had a rough life at Trees of Mystery. Back in 1946, the original statue was built from papier-mâché, but it completely melted away during the first winter rainstorm.

They tried again in 1947 with a 24-foot version before building the current 49-foot giant in 1961. And poor Babe hasn’t fared much better. In 2007, his half-ton head fell off during a storm and needed quick repairs before tourists arrived.

The Tree That Shrugged Off a Lightning Strike

The Brotherhood Tree is 19 feet across and reaches almost 300 feet into the sky, making it one of the biggest living things you’ll ever see.

What makes it special is how it survived a direct lightning strike that left a huge scar you can still see today. Each year, this determined tree grows another 2-3 feet and adds a new growth ring.

Where Tree Rings are History Books

Time becomes visible in the Cross Section of History display. Created back in 1962, this huge redwood slice shows markers indicating how big the tree was during major historical moments like the Crusades in 1096, the signing of the Magna Carta in 1215, and when Columbus sailed in 1492.

Looking at the rings, you realize these trees were already growing strong during the Roman Empire. The display also points out rings that formed during California’s Gold Rush and other significant local events.

You Can Walk on Top of Those Redwoods

The 526-foot Redwood Canopy Trail added in 2020 lets you cross eight swaying suspension bridges connecting ten platforms that hover 50-100 feet above the ground. Only two such walks exist in all of America.

To reach the platforms, you climb spiral staircases that wrap around massive trunks. The bridges move slightly as you walk, adding a bit of excitement to your journey.

Kids need to be at least 36 inches tall to join this adventure. While your dog can join you almost everywhere else in the park, they’ll need to wait while you explore the Canopy Trail.

There’s a Mini Cathedral in There

This is where nine separate redwoods have grown together in a perfect circle, forming what looks like a cathedral where many couples have exchanged wedding vows.

This unusual formation happened when new trees sprouted from the roots of a fallen ancient giant. The park jokingly takes wedding reservations “600 years into the future” for the younger cathedral tree growing nearby.

When you stand inside this natural formation, listen for the unusual echoes created by the circular arrangement of trunks. The acoustics here make even whispers sound somehow magical.

The Hidden Trail Most Visitors Miss

The Wilderness Trail offers a challenging way down from Ted’s Ridge after you reach the top of the SkyTrail, with steep slopes and slippery sections where guide ropes help you keep your balance.

Along the way, markers identify over 30 plant species unique to redwood forests. The park staff suggests allowing 45-60 minutes to complete this memorable descent.

The Fallen Tree That Grew Upward Again

The Candelabra Tree appears to have smaller redwoods growing like candles from a fallen trunk, but they’re actually new vertical growth emerging from a horizontal position.

This demonstrates how redwoods can regenerate after falling over. Those new shoots can eventually develop into full-sized trees themselves. This particular formation began about 120 years ago.

As you explore, watch for other unusual specimens like the “Elephant Tree” with its trunk resembling an elephant, the “Lightning Tree” with dramatic scars from a strike, and the “Cathedral Tree” where multiple trunks grow in a perfect circle.

The World War II Veteran Who Saved Ancient Trees

Behind this attraction lies a story of environmental protection. After returning from World War II in 1946, Ray Thompson bought this property and created both a tourist attraction and a protected sanctuary long before conservation became popular.

For over 75 years, multiple generations of the Thompson family have cared for these ancient trees. They were among the first in the region to install a forest fire sprinkler system for protection.

The family regularly works with university researchers to study redwood ecology. Today, they continue sustainable tourism by limiting daily visitors during busy seasons to prevent damage to the forest.

The Forest That Plays Music When No One Watches

At the Trees of Mystery, your ears might catch something unexpected along the trail. Hidden speakers occasionally play music through the forest, including recordings of Nelson Eddy singing Joyce Kilmer’s poem “Trees.” This tradition began back in the 1960s and continues today.

As you walk, notice spots where the forest’s natural acoustics create unusual sound effects. During certain seasons, you might hear recorded nature sounds highlighting birds and animals that are difficult to spot.

Visiting the Trees of Mystery

Address: Trees of Mystery 15500 US Highway 101 North Klamath, CA 95548 

2025 Admission Costs:

• Adults (13-59): $30.00 
• Seniors (60+): $25.00 
• Children (3-12): $15.00 
• Little ones under 3: Free 

Your ticket includes everything the park offers. Once inside, you can enjoy the SkyTrail gondola ride, Forest Experience Trail, Wilderness Trail, Trail of Tall Tales, Kingdom of Trees, Redwood Canopy Trail, and The End of the Trail Museum. There are no extra fees for any attractions.