Big Tree, a ponderosa pine, is the biggest of its species ever recorded. It was already a giant before the Oregon Territory was established and endured centuries of fire, insects, disease, and human impact. Recently, weather destroyed half of its crown, allowing another ponderosa pine to become taller, but Big Tree remains the largest in circumference at 28 feet, 11 inches. It stands 162 feet tall and is approximately 500 years old.