Regulated visits and controlled access are being considered by the Cabezón de la Sal City Council in Cantabria to protect the Sequoia Natural Monument, a forest that draws more than 200,000 visitors each year. The surge in popularity on social networks has amplified the attention on Monte Cabezon, where the redwood forest has become a top draw for tourists, especially after the pandemic. This rising popularity invites frank discussions about carrying capacity and the long term health of the site.
Across social platforms, countless photos of visitors hugging the ancient trees have become a common sight. While the gesture appears symbolic and affectionate, it is visibly hard on the trees, affecting their bark and overall vitality. The practice has drawn concern from local authorities who note the stress it places on a already delicate ecosystem.
“The trees are getting weaker as people hug them and some even remove bark or fragments of shell as keepsakes”, said Óscar López, the mayor of Cabezón de la Sal, during a conversation with Efe. “Hugging can harm their health and the forest’s integrity.”
The image of visitors embracing the trunks is spreading, and so is the risk to the forest’s preservation that comes with it. The painted captions on social posts often reveal the tale of how the tradition travels beyond the moment of contact, inviting more visitors and encouraging repeat actions that contribute to wear and tear on the trees and soil.
The forest is not only at risk from trampling; many roots become exposed due to erosion caused by foot traffic. In addition to being stripped, large portions of the root systems are increasingly vulnerable as the ground beneath erodes with repeated visits.
Avoid overcrowding
In response, the Cabezón de la Sal City Council, together with the Department of Tourism and Rural Development, convened to discuss potential changes designed to reduce crowding and protect the site. The goal is to introduce measures that allow visitors to enjoy the area without compromising its ecological health or beauty.
At present there is no blanket ban on touching the trees, though local officials acknowledge that enforcing such a prohibition is challenging. Some councilors warn that without proper oversight, restrictions alone may fail to deter hugging or other forms of contact in certain situations.
There is also talk of regulating access through walking paths and designated routes that would minimize root damage and prevent the spread of impact across the forest floor. A measured approach to visitor management could include timed access or limited daily entries to balance enjoyment with preservation.
The possibility of guided visits is being explored as a controlled option. López explains that tours could be offered by reservation, with a potential entry fee for day and night sessions. This approach would help fund conservation efforts while creating an orderly experience for visitors.
While protecting the park remains the primary objective, officials consider how tourism might contribute to the local economy. The emphasis, however, is clear: safeguarding the health and integrity of the redwoods takes precedence over immediate commercial gains. The decision to open the area to visitors is framed as a way to ensure long term protection and sustainable enjoyment for future generations.
The redwoods of Cabezón de la Sal were planted in 1940 to take advantage of the timber, similar to eucalyptus, and they can reach heights of up to 50 meters. These trees have become a notable attraction in recent years, drawing travelers to Cantabria. The 2.5 hectare site carries the status of a natural monument, designated in Cantabria in 2003 to highlight this rare and special habitat and to ensure its protection.
The forest stands as a reminder of the delicate balance between accessibility and conservation. The community is exploring practical steps to preserve the sanctuary while inviting people to experience its beauty in a mindful way that respects the living landscape and its long history.