The Big Tree, Ancient coastal live oak in Goose Island State Park, Texas.
The Big Tree is a coastal live oak located within Goose Island State Park along the Texas Gulf Coast. The trunk measures roughly 11 meters (35 feet) around, and the crown spreads across an area of approximately 27 meters (90 feet).
The oak was already standing when European settlers arrived in this coastal region, and it has survived for more than a thousand years. Recognition as a historic natural landmark came in the late 1960s from the state of Texas.
The name refers to the tree's exceptional size, which visitors notice immediately upon approaching. Families often pause beneath the spreading limbs to experience the natural canopy formed by the trunk and branches.
A short walking path from the parking area leads directly to the tree, and signage explains the species characteristics. Visiting on a cooler day allows for more comfortable exploration, as the Texas coast can become quite warm in summer.
Despite the salty sea air and occasional storms, the tree has retained its vitality and continues to grow. Photographers especially appreciate the gnarled bark texture and the moss draping from the lower branches.
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