Trail of 100 Giants

Route Description for Trail of 100 Giants

The Trail of 100 Giants offers an other-worldly experience, guiding eager explorers through mammoth old-growth sequoias. Family-friendly and unrivaled in its density of sequoias, this route is highly frequented. Those seeking a more tranquil experience are encouraged to head out in the early morning and evening. Unfortunately, this scenic footpath is only accessible in the summer months—weather depending. Expect the grove to close from November until May. Note there is a $10USD parking fee.

Immerse yourself in a sea of sequoias along the Trail of 100 Giants. Containing about 125 giant sequoias, the largest tree in the grove has a diameter of 20ft and is 220ft in height.
Lined with interpretive signs, this route details the ecology and history of Long Meadow Grove—pleasing history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Note this route is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers alike, though they may need assistance on the steeper sections of the trail.

Embark on your adventure along the Trail of 100 Giants from the trailhead off M-90. Setting out from here, you will be guided northwardly, past the Proclamation Tree. Continue tracking north, past downed sequoias to an intersection, keep left here. Gradually climbing through the grove, you will wander past ponderosa pines before reaching the intriguing tree of a sequoia and pine that grew together.

Crossing over footbridges atop the seasonal stream, you will notice trees with burn scars. At this point, the trail will redirect you southeastwardly, past a collection of giant sequoias named The Sentinels. Meandering along the Trail of 100 Giants, you will cross yet another footbridge; keep left at the junction. Admire the grandeur of the towering sequoias and an immense fallen tree that adorns the terrain on your right. Continue around the loop, which will reroute you west, along the southern side of the felled tree.

Eventually, you will intersect with the creek again, keeping left at the trail split. Trekking southwestwardly, you will be bound by sequoias on one side and a luxuriant meadow on the other. You will soon reach another junction; stay right, hiking back over the seasonal creek that bisects the meadow. At the following juncture, veer left and retrace your steps back to the trailhead.

Trail Highlights

Long Meadow Grove

Long Meadow Grove, otherwise known as Redwood Meadow Grove, is a grove of giant sequoia trees near Johnsondale, California. Located in the Sequoia National Forest, this grove is part of the southern section of the Giant Sequoia National Monument. The Trail of 100 Giants is a well-revered hiking route that passes through the grove, exhibiting the grandeur of the old-growth sequoias. Unfortunately, this area was impacted by the Windy Fire in 2021, and a large portion of the grove burned. Fortunately, most of the trees along the Trail of 100 Giants were saved by firefighters.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Trail of 100 Giants?

The Trail of 100 Giants is a 2.4 km lollipop hike in the Giant Sequoia National Monument.

What kind of trees line the Trail of 100 Giants?

The Trail of 100 Giants travels through a dense collection of giant sequoias.

Are dogs allowed on the Trail of 100 Giants?

Yes, dogs are welcome on the Trail of 100 Giants, though they must remain on-leash.

How old are the trees along the Trail of 100 Giants?

Some of the giant sequoias along the Trail of 100 Giants are estimated to be over 1,500 years old.

Insider Hints for Trail of 100 Giants

• Explore in the morning or evening for more tranquility
• Note the roads to the trailhead are subject to seasonal closure
• The trail is also subject to hazard closures
• Charge your camera, the scenery is unrivaled
• Your pup can join, though they must remain on a max 6-foot leash