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The Big Stump.

The Big Stump

Field review by the editors.

Arnold, California

In 1853, after this monstrous sequoia had become famous as one of the biggest trees in the world ("The Discovery Tree"), a group of forward-thinking local businessmen cut it down.

It was to be a traveling exhibit, but the show failed miserably.

Scientists estimate that if the Big Stump had not been cut, today it would be the largest living thing on earth (Excluding giant fungi, of course). Park visitors can visit and stand on the big stump, once used for local dances. We visited this stump, and it makes a better story than attraction.

The Big Stump

Calaveras Big Trees State Park

Address:
1170 E. State Hwy 4, Arnold, CA
Directions:
Calaveras Big Trees State Park. Four miles northeast of the town of Arnold on Hwy 4. Turn right at the sign onto the park. The road splits just after the toll booth; follow the road on the right to the parking lot for the North Grove and campground. The Stump is next to the campground at the start of the North Grove Trail.
Hours:
Closed in Winter. (Call to verify) Local health policies may affect hours and access.
Phone:
209-795-3840
Admission:
Admission
Save to My Sights

Nearby Offbeat Places

Sierra Nevada Logging MuseumSierra Nevada Logging Museum, Arnold, CA - 2 mi.
Mercer CavernsMercer Caverns, Murphys, CA - 13 mi.
Wall of Comparative Ovations - E Clampus VitusWall of Comparative Ovations - E Clampus Vitus, Murphys, CA - 13 mi.
In the region:
Birthplace of A&W Root Beer, Lodi, CA - 53 mi.

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