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    Crescent and Log Meadows Trail

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Very Easy
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    0.5-1h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    2.9 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    63 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    Directions to Trailhead

    Saunter through luxuriant meadows abundant with a diversity of flora and fauna and escape into the majestic stands of giant sequoias along the Crescent and Log Meadows Trail. This lovely adventure exhibits the best of both worlds and can be enjoyed by hikers of all ages and skill levels.

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    Route Description for Crescent and Log Meadows Trail

    Indulge in the beauty of this natural sanctuary in the Sequoia National Park awaiting exploration. At the top of many hikers’ to-do lists, you will be hard-pressed to find the Crescent and Log Meadows Trail without dozens of visitors, so come prepared to share the route! Early morning and late evenings usually offer a more secluded experience.

    When hiking in the summer months, be sure to pack bug spray, as this trail has been known to be a bit buggy! Additionally, the section of the path that meanders along the meadowlands is exposed, so SPF is necessary on sunny days. Note the park demands an entrance fee which costs $35USD per vehicle or $20USD per person for pedestrians or cyclists.

    Explore the meadow that John Muir once referred to as the “Gem of the Sierras” along the Crescent and Log Meadows Trail. Providing a variety of scenery, this trek stimulating trek is sure to impress. Easy-going and short, hikers of all ages and skill levels can explore this route—boasting the perfect excuse to get the family out into the fresh air.

    Setting out from the High Sierra Trailhead, the Crescent and Log Meadows Hike follows the High Trail southwardly over Crescent Creek and along the blossoming meadow. Soon after your departure, you will encounter an intersection; veer left here onto the Crescent Meadow Loop Trail. Before continuing your trek, enjoy the expansive overlook of the Crescent Meadow sprawling in the north.

    Appreciate the beauty of the field framed by towering conifers, then follow the Crescent Meadow Loop Trail northwardly. After crossing over Crescent Creek again, you will veer right, being diverted onto the Tharp’s Log Trail. This route guides you along the western perimeter of Log Meadow, bisected by the meandering creek.

    Once you eventually reach Tharp’s Log, we encourage you to climb inside and explore the rustic refuge in the hollowed sequoia. Explore the unique cabin, then turn left at the junction. Now wandering west, you will shrink as you trek amongst towering old-growth sequoias. Soon you will reach the Chimney Tree, a unique conifer hallowed by wildfires.

    Take a picture in the sequoia, then continue along the trail, marveling at the beautiful forest. When you ultimately reach a juncture with the Crescent Meadow Loop Trail, turn left and hike this path south along the western boundary of the lush meadow. Traveling this route, you will pass the picnic area before being delivered back to the trailhead.

    Trail Highlights

    Tharp’s Log

    Tharp’s Log is a hollowed-out fallen sequoia in Log Meadow. Located in the Giant Forest Grove of the Sequoia National Forest, the empty sequoia became a refuge for early pioneers—named for Hale D. Tharp, the first non-Native American to enter the Giant Forest in 1858. Tharp frequently stayed in the rustic accommodation, and nowadays, visitors can explore the unique cabin.

    Insider Hints for Crescent and Log Meadows Trail

    • Wear SPF and sun protection on hot summer days
    • Bug spray is a must
    • Explore in the morning or on weekdays for a more secluded experience
    • Don’t forget to charge your camera, the scenery is postcard perfect
    • Maintain on the marked path to preserve the fragile environment

    Getting to the Crescent and Log Meadows Trail Trailhead

    The Crescent and Log Meadows Trail departs from the High Sierra Trailhead off Crescent Meadow Road.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      No

    • When to do

      April-October

    • Pets allowed

      No

    • Family friendly

      Yes

    • Route Signage

      Good

    • Crowd Levels

      Moderate

    • Route Type

      Circuit

    Crescent and Log Meadows Trail Elevation Graph

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    Crescent and Log Meadows Trail Reviews

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