We've all stood under a tall tree and been amazed by its size. But have you ever wondered what the tallest tree in the world is? It's not just big—it's towering. So tall, in fact, that looking up doesn't even show you the top!
Let's find out which tree holds the record, where it lives, and how it grew to such incredible heights.
Meet Hyperion: the tallest tree on Earth
The world's tallest known tree is named Hyperion. It's a type of coast redwood (Sequoia sempervirens), and it stands at a jaw-dropping height of 115.92 meters—that's almost as tall as a 38-story building! Hyperion was discovered in 2006 by a team of naturalists in California's Redwood National Park in the United States.
What makes Hyperion special?
Hyperion isn't just tall—it's a survivor. Scientists estimate this tree is between 600 and 800 years old, meaning it started growing in the 1200s or 1300s. What's even more impressive is that it grew this tall while avoiding damage from storms, lightning, or diseases. Many other trees in the same forest may have once reached similar heights but were broken or worn down over time. Hyperion, on the other hand, kept reaching for the sky.
Why do redwoods grow so tall?
Redwoods grow tall for a few key reasons. First, they live in foggy coastal areas, which provide them with regular moisture from the air. Even during dry seasons, they pull water straight from fog through their needles. Second, the forest soil is rich and deep, giving the roots plenty of nutrients. Third, redwoods are resistant to insects and fire, which helps them live longer than most trees.
Can Hyperion be visited?
Here's an interesting fact: Hyperion's exact location is kept secret by the National Park Service. Why? Because when people started visiting the area in large numbers, they damaged the soil around the tree's roots. To protect the forest and Hyperion itself, park officials stopped sharing the coordinates. Visitors can still enjoy many other massive redwoods in the park, but Hyperion is now off-limits to keep it safe for the future.
Other record-breaking trees
Hyperion may be the tallest, but it's not the only famous tree. General Sherman, another redwood, holds the record for the largest tree by volume. It's shorter than Hyperion at about 83 meters tall, but it's much thicker and heavier. Meanwhile, Methuselah, a bristlecone pine, is known as one of the oldest living trees, estimated to be over 4,800 years old. Each tree has its own way of standing out.
Why tall trees matter
Tall trees like Hyperion are more than just impressive—they're important for the planet. They store large amounts of carbon, help clean the air, and provide homes for birds, insects, and even small mammals. They're also part of fragile ecosystems that need to be protected. The taller and older the tree, the more it has seen—and the more it gives back to nature.
Nature's skyscrapers
It's easy to forget, but trees are like nature's skyscrapers. While we build towers with steel and concrete, the forest has been growing giants made of wood and life for centuries. Standing under a redwood reminds us how incredible nature's design really is.
Have you seen a giant tree?
Have you ever stood at the base of a giant tree and looked up until your neck hurt? What did it feel like? Were you amazed, inspired, or just full of wonder? If you've visited a forest of redwoods or other towering trees, we'd love to hear about it. And if you haven't—maybe it's time to put it on your travel list. After all, meeting the tallest tree in the world is something you'll never forget.
