There are few things that are as impressive as a beautiful, big tree.

Champion trees are the superstars of their species — and there are more than 700 of them in our national register. Each champion is the result of a lucky combination: growing in a spot protected by the landscape or by people who have cared about and for it, good soil, the right amount of water, and resilience to the elements, surviving storms, disease and pests.

American Forests National Big Tree Program was founded to honor these trees. Since 1940, we have kept the only national register of champion trees.

Champion trees are found by people just like you — school teachers, kids fascinated by science, tree lovers of all ages and even arborists for whom a fun day off is measuring the biggest tree they can find. You, too, can become a big tree hunter and compete to find new champions.