Octopus Tree of Oregon

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This Sitka spruce was once a ceremonial tree of the Tillamook tribe. Its uniqueness is debated. Some believe the odd shape is purely manmade - the tribe would choose a special tree that had not yet matured and then restraints would be used to force the tree to grow into its unnatural position. Others believe that natural events wreaked havoc on the tree resulting in the cephalopod-like limbs. Whatever it's origin is it is certainly a striking curiosity.

Scenic • Hikes