Michigan Big Tree Hunt Now Open: Help Find the State Largest Trees

Do you have a massive tree in your backyard, neighborhood park, or local cemetery that you have always wondered about? Now is your chance to find out if it is one of Michigan's biggest.

The 17th Biennial Michigan Big Tree Hunt is now open, inviting residents across the state to help identify and celebrate Michigan's largest trees. The contest opened August 3 and will accept nominations through August 11, 2028.

What Is the Big Tree Hunt?

ReLeaf Michigan launched the Michigan Big Tree Hunt in 1993 to encourage people to notice, measure, and appreciate large trees while highlighting Michigan's incredible natural resources. The contest is open to participants of all ages, making it a perfect family activity or community project.

Large trees can be found everywhere: backyards, parks, cemeteries, schools, farms, neighborhoods, and natural areas throughout the state. You might be walking past a champion tree every day without even knowing it.

Contest Categories

The contest recognizes several types of entries:

The largest tree from each Michigan county - All 83 counties are eligible, so Battle Creek and Calhoun County residents have a shot at recognition.

The largest tree submitted by a Big Tree Hunter age 16 or older - Adults can compete for the biggest finds.

The largest tree submitted by a Big Tree Hunter age 15 or younger - Kids and teens get their own category to encourage young nature enthusiasts.

The largest eastern white pine - Michigan's official state tree gets special recognition.

Trees that could qualify as potential new Michigan State Champion Trees - Your nomination could unseat a current champion.

How to Participate

Entering the contest is simple and free. Here is what you need to do:

Step 1: Find a large tree that catches your attention.

Step 2: Measure the circumference of the trunk 4.5 feet above the ground.

Step 3: Take photos showing the entire tree, the trunk, the measurement location, and identifying features such as leaves or twigs.

Step 4: Submit your entry online at BigTreeHunt.com.

Paper entry forms will also become available this fall at participating libraries, nature centers, parks, conservation districts, and other locations across Michigan.

Why Your Participation Matters

Even if you do not think your tree will break any records, ReLeaf Michigan encourages you to submit it anyway. Updated records help track some of the state's largest trees and contribute to our understanding of Michigan's urban and natural forests.

Submitted trees are compared with entries in the Michigan Big Tree Register. And do not worry - tree locations are not made public without permission from the property owner.

What Happens Next

After entries close in August 2028, ReLeaf Michigan will review submissions and arrange in-person verification for top entries. A celebration ceremony is planned for fall 2028.

The previous celebration at Chippewa Nature Center drew more than 100 Big Tree winners and family members. ReLeaf Michigan hopes to receive submissions from all 83 Michigan counties this cycle.

Follow along with the organization's "Big Tree of the Week" social media series, which highlights trees and stories submitted from around the state.

Get Started Today

Grab a measuring tape, head outside, and start exploring. That towering oak in your neighborhood park or the massive maple in your backyard could be a champion waiting to be recognized.

Website: BigTreeHunt.com
Email: bigtreehunt@releafmichigan.org
Phone: (800) 642-7353

FAQ

Do I need to own the tree to nominate it?
No, you can nominate trees on public property or with permission from private property owners.

What if I am not sure what kind of tree it is?
Take clear photos of the leaves, bark, and overall tree. ReLeaf Michigan can help with identification.

Can I submit more than one tree?
Yes, you can submit multiple entries.

Is there a fee to enter?
No, the contest is completely free to participate in.

What makes a tree a "champion"?
Champion trees are determined by a points system based on trunk circumference, height, and crown spread. The tree with the most points in each species is crowned champion.