We did this hike late in the day after a bigger hike. The trail is a bit overgrown but passable. Long pants were helpful. The short trail is flat and easy. There were walking sticks at the trail head and they were helpful for the first little bit but then not needed. At first you walk through cedars that have been cut, so it is interesting to see what logging did and compare it to the saved grove. You get to the huge memorial tree and then the trail goes off to the left and right. Big trees either direction, but we found most of them on the right hand trail. We think we walked to the end, but aren't 100% sure because of the over-growth. Stunning big cedars. Thank you Mr. Engles for saving this patch of land and trees. 

The trail is overgrown with salmon berry and devils club, especially where the trail splits right at the giant cedar. The trees are majestic and worth the bush wacking!

Road Conditions: Forest Road 49 has some large potholes to navigate, but is accessible to any vehicle when driven with care.

Parking: The parking area is just a small pull-out on the side of the road.  There is really only space for one car.

Trail:  There is an informational sign at the trailhead that is helpful to read before the hike to get some background information on Harold Engle.  The  trail leading to the memorial grove is easy to follow despite quite a bit brush covering the trail.  Watch for rocks and small downed trees hidden under the brush that can pose a tripping hazard.  There are a few downed trees along the way, but nothing impassable.  The old-growth forest is quite impressive and there are a few off-shoots along the trail to explore the full grove and access the river. 

Though not necessarily a destination worth the drive in and of itself, this short trail is a nice stop if you are camping or hiking in the area.

#hikethestate

I did this short walk after a hike at the North Fork Sauk River trail.  It was about 3 miles up NF49 and is well marked. It has about 0.7 miles of trails through a remnant of huge old cedars. The largest one is 14 feet in diameter!

Great little side trip.  The road was bumpy for sure, but totally doable in my old Tahoe.  The trees were massive and stunning!  So many folks though history being moved by the tree's presence.  Thank you Harold Engles for the difference you made for future generations.  The Forests are Special. 

I went to the main trail junction, took a Left to a view of the river, but no easy way down to the water.  Returned to the junction, headed right for a bit to two other views/river access.  I enjoyed the view and soaked in the quiet before heading back to the car.