Big trees are the prime attraction when visiting Sequoia National Park. If you want to surround yourself with nature and really feel small in the world this is the place to be! I recommend spending at least 2 days here to get a good feel for it. Not only are there tons of hiking trails, just walking around and exploring some of the other attractions and activities make it worth a long weekend. Here's a few of my favorite spots when visiting the park and spending some time amongst those epic trees!
1.BIG TREES TRAIL
Length: 1.4 mile loop | Level: Easy - this one is even wheelchair friendly | Duration: 30min-1hr
Elevation: 50 | Dogs: No
Directions and full hike info here
The name says it all. This easy trail loop toward the entrance of the park provides many great photo ops, and lets you get up close and personal with the trees with minimal effort. This is a good introductory trail to the park and is a beautiful walk.
2. LITTLE BALDY TRAIL
Length: 3.3 miles out and back | Level: Moderate | Duration: 30min-1hr | Elevation: 793 | Dogs: No
Directions and full hike info here
For some reason, not many people know of this trail, but its one of my favorites! This easy-to-moderate hike through the forest provides some of the most beautiful scenery in the park. When you reach the top, the views are incredible making the trek up the dome worth every step. Located 1.5 miles south of Dorst Campground, the Little Baldy trailhead is marked by a large sign on the east side of the road. It's not highly trafficked, making it one of the best trails to do to for great photos.
3. CONGRESS TRAIL
Length: 3 mile loop | Level: Easy | Duration: 1hr | Elevation: 462 | Dogs: No
Directions and full hike info here
It's a popular one and for good reason- it's the home of the largest sequoia tree in the world, The General Sherman. This 3 mile loop trail begins at Sherman and then takes you through the world of Return of the Jedi where groupings of trees are named after government offices like The Senate and The House. Most of the crowds walk to the General Sherman tree and back, but if you do the whole trail, you'll find it quite enjoyable and a more peaceful escape from the tourists.
4. MORO ROCK TRAIL
Length: 3 mile loop | Level: Moderate | Duration: 1hr | Elevation: 462 | Dogs: No
Directions and full hike info here
If you have a fear of heights, you might want to avoid this one, but if you are up for a short adventure you'll discover some really impressive views! Over half of the trail is a staircase climbing up the rock itself. There are railings and carved stone steps to help assist in the climb. It is a short trail to get to the top however, only .06 miles. The view is well worth it!
To get to the trailhead follow the park map south of the Giant Forest Museum, turn off the Generals Highway and head east on Crescent Meadow Road. After 1.5 miles, turn right and continue to the parking area beneath Moro Rock.
Other park highlights include the Crystal Cave - which is closed in the winter, but something to check out for sure in the summer. Lots more to explore in the Sequoias so check back for updates!
Full info on the park here.
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