Whether it's a leisurely stroll beneath the sequoias at Wuksachi or a hike to a forest lookout, acres of America's premier wilderness await for you to discover. Over 800 miles of hiking trails in all. With so much to choose from, the first step is deciding which area to explore. Below are just a few examples of the many different hiking trails in Sequoia National Park.
CONGRESS TRAIL
Distance: 2 miles
Time: 1 to 3 hours, round trip
Trailhead: General Sherman Tree, just off General’s Highway
Elevation Gain: 200 feet
Description: This popular, paved walk loops through the heart of the Giant Sequoia Grove and is perfect for first-time visitors.
HIGH SIERRA TRAIL
Distance: 11.5 miles
Time: 5 to 10 hours, one way (average 7 hours)
Trailhead: Crescent Meadow, approximately 10 miles south of Wuksachi LodgeSM
Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet
Description: Well marked and easy to navigate, the High Sierra trail is considered moderate with a warm southern exposure. The trail follows a ridgeline of mixed conifers, offering spectacular views of the Great Western Divide and lush meadows along the journey. The journey gains and loses elevation the entire way. It is wise to rest and enjoy Buck Creek (it has a concrete bridge) because the last 1.3 miles gains 600 vertical feet and is without water. The High Sierra trail crosses three major tributaries before reaching Bearpaw High Sierra CampSM. A number of popular day hikes are accessible from the camp.
HAZELWOOD NATURE TRAIL
Distance: 1 mile, self-guided loop
Time: 1 hour, round trip
Trailhead: South side of General’s Highway, next to the now-deserted Giant Forest Village
Elevation Gain: 50 feet
Description: This pleasant trail wanders on gentle grades through excellent stands of giant sequoias. Trailside exhibits tell of historic figures who helped make these parks what they are.
Tokopah Falls Trail
Distance: 3.4 miles
Time: 2 hours, round trip
Trailhead: Just beyond Marble Fork Bridge in Lodgepole Campground
Elevation Gain: 500 feet
Description: The trail to Tokopah Falls is an easy walk along the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River. Tokopah Falls is 1,200 feet high and most impressive in spring and early summer.
