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 No
visit to Priest Lake would ever be complete without a "pilgrimage" to
the infamous Priest Lake Shoe Tree. A legend in its own time, this
mystic attraction has garnered worldwide attention by its designation
as "The Best Shoe Tree in the Northwest" in the Who's
Who of ShoeTrees !!!
The true history of the Shoe Tree has been shrouded in mystery - or at least
somewhat skewed by various myths of dubious origin perpetuated by local native
'tellers of tall tales'. It is suspected that the tradition of nailing, hanging
or otherwise affixing one's shoe or shoes to this beautiful 'I can't believe
they are doing this to me' cedar tree seems to have originated sometime in the
madness of the 1970s.
Who started the "tradition" is one of those crucial historical facts
lost in oblivion. Some say it was "Big Foot" - however, the size 8
pair of designer sandals would seem not to confirm this tale. In any event, over
the past decades it has become a 'sacred Priestee ritual' to leave a dated pair,
or at least a single shoe affixed to the tree upon a visit to pay homage to one
of the great remaining Shoe Trees of the world.
As famous as this bastion of tradition may be, the Priest Lake natives keep the
exact location a closely guarded secret. Reports indicate that they will reveal
said location only if you happen to know the secret 'shoe tree handshake' or
if they are subjected to extreme (or not so extreme) torture. However, less than
totally reliable sources have revealed that the location might be as follows:
Travel north from Nordman towards the Roosevelt
Grove of Ancient Cedars / Granite Falls and points beyond. Take the turn-off
to the Tillicum Creek Trail (10 miles north of Nordman on USFS Road 302). Reportedly,
the Shoe Tree sits majestically across the small bridge over Granite Creek (approximately
150' off Road 302).
Bring your camera and an abundant sense of humor - and if you are truly touched
by the Spirit of the Tree, you might even plan a picnic beneath this stately
landmark. The oldest, rattiest, most odoriferous offerings will be gratefully
accepted. |
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