This forest is one of the Nation's most impressive remnants of old-growth forest, containing magnificent examples of more than 100 tree species, many over 400-years-old, with some more than 20 feet in circumference and over 100 feet tall. This 3,800-acre forest was set aside in 1936 as a memorial to the author of the poem "Trees," Joyce Kilmer, who was killed in action in France during World War I. This forest, part of the Joyce Kilmer-Slick Rock Wilderness, is maintained in its primitive state.
The only way to see the impressive memorial forest is on foot. The figure-eight Joyce Kilmer Memorial Loop National Recreation Trail covers two miles and has two loops: the 1.25-mile lower loop passes the Joyce Kilmer Memorial plaque, and the upper 0.75-mile loop swings though Poplar Cove - a grove of the forest's largest trees. The trailhead parking area has a flush toilet (seasonal) and picnic tables. A privy-type outhouse is available year round. No camping or overnight parking is allowed.
