Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail

Route Description for Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail

Immerse yourself in a sea of sequoias along the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail. Home to over 500 incredible sequoias, this grove makes for an epic hiking experience. The grandeur and beauty of these trees are unparalleled, attracting outdoor enthusiasts from near and far. Due to its popularity, the magical nature trails within the park are often crowded, especially in the summer months. If you are seeking a more tranquil hike, then consider an off-season adventure. Unfortunately, there is no parking at the trailhead, so visitors are required to park at the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza and take the free shuttle or walk to the trailhead. Note: Yosemite National Park charges an entrance fee, check out the NPS website for more information.

There is nothing not to like about the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail! This stunning nature trail guides adventurers through the grove and its hallowed trees, with some estimated to be over 2,000 years of age – these mature trees would certainly be able to tell some stories! Explore the Grizzly Giant, California Tunnel Tree, the Clothespin Tree among other notable redwood coniferous trees. Not only will you be granted an up close and personal experience with the enormous trees, but you will also be rewarded with dumbfounding vistas of the Sierra Nevada and Wawona Valley from Wawona Point. When planning your trip to the Yosemite National Park, the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail is a must-add to your itinerary.

Embark on your adventure along the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail from the trailhead Big Trees Loop Trailhead at the Shuttle Stop off Mariposa Grove Road. From here, take the Big Trees Loop Trail on your right and follow it northeast. Soon you will pass the Fallen Monarch, a preserved gigantic fallen sequoia. Continue along the path, merging onto the Grizzly Giant Loop Trail at the junction. Passing the Bachelor and Three Graces Trail, you will approach the Grizzly Giant—the biggest tree in the grove in terms of girth. Over 100ft around at the base, this thousand-year-old tree has survived over 100 fires. Setting out from here you will pass through the California Tunnel Tree.

From here, hook onto the Perimeter Trail, which is shared with horseback riders, so keep an eye out for passers-by. At the next intersection, keep right and you will arrive at the Telescope Tree. You will understand how it got its name when you enter the tree and look up. Hollowed by fires, this resilient sequoia makes for an epic experience. Now trekking north, you will pass the Wawona Tunnel Tree that now lays on its side, before reaching the Galen Clark Tree. From here, track northwest up the Mariposa Grove Trail up to Wawona Point, where you will take in awe-inspiring views of the lush valley below. Revel in the scenery and retrace your footing back down the path.

At this point, you will follow the Mariposa Grove Trail south, beginning your descent towards the trailhead. This route will guide you through the enchanting forest to the Galen Clark Cabin and Museum. If the time permits, take a few moments to explore the museum and further your knowledge about these amazing trees. Continue along the path down to the Clothespin Tree, another hollowed sequoia. Passing the Faithful Couple, take a connector route down to the Grizzly Giant Loop Trail. Follow this path all the way back to the trailhead and Shuttle Stop, marking the end of your magical nature walk through the grove.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail a difficult hike?

No, the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail is not a particularly strenuous hike, but it does demand a bit of stamina as it ascends to Wawona Point.

When is the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail open?

The Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail is open year-round. Note this area is subject to spontaneous closure due to high winds and damage.

Insider Hints for Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail

• There is no parking at the trailhead so will have to take the free shuttle from the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza, or walk to the trailhead
• Charge your camera, this scenic setting warrants countless photo opportunities
• In the winter you can enjoy the sights of the snow-dusted sequoias with a pair of snowshoes or cross-country skis
• Unfortunately, you will have to leave your pup behind for this adventure