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Big Stump Grove: A Walk Through Sequoia History

Discover the legacy of logging and the resilience of nature among the giant sequoia stumps of Kings Canyon National Park.

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Explore the Big Stump Grove in Kings Canyon National Park, a poignant reminder of 19th-century logging practices. Walk among the massive stumps of giant sequoias, including the famous Mark Twain Tree, and witness the resilience of nature as young sequoias regenerate in this historically significant grove.

A brief summary to The Big Stump Grove

Local tips

  • Pick up a self-guided trail map at the trailhead to learn about the history and ecology of the grove.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for the Big Stump Loop Trail, as the path can be uneven with roots and some elevation gain.
  • Visit early or late in the day to avoid crowds, especially during peak season.
  • In winter, the Big Stump area is used for snow play; bring appropriate gear if visiting during this season.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby General Grant Tree and Grant Grove Village.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From the Kings Canyon National Park entrance on Highway 180, continue approximately one mile. Turn left into the Big Stump Picnic Area. The trailhead is located near the picnic area and restrooms. Park entrance fees apply: $35 per vehicle, valid for 1-7 days.

  • Public Transport

    During the summer, a free shuttle operates within Kings Canyon National Park, with a stop at the Big Stump Picnic Area. Check the park's website for the current schedule and route.

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Discover more about The Big Stump Grove

The Big Stump Grove, located near the entrance to Kings Canyon National Park, offers a unique and thought-provoking experience. Unlike other groves boasting towering giants, this area tells the story of extensive logging that occurred in the late 1800s. While many old-growth sequoias were felled, the grove now showcases the impressive stumps that remain, offering a tangible sense of the scale of these magnificent trees. The most iconic feature of the Big Stump Grove is the Mark Twain Stump. This is the remains of a giant sequoia that was cut down in 1891 so that sections of its trunk could be displayed in museums in New York and London. The felling of the Mark Twain Tree serves as a stark reminder of early exploitation of these natural wonders, driven by a desire to prove their existence to a disbelieving public. Today, visitors can walk atop the Mark Twain Stump, gaining a unique perspective on the tree's immense size. The Big Stump Loop Trail, a 1.5 to 2.2-mile path, meanders through the grove, passing other noteworthy sites such as the Sawed Tree, which bears the scars of old saw cuts, and the 'Feather Bed', a trench filled with branches to cushion the fall of trees during logging. The trail also highlights the resilience of nature, with many young sequoias growing in the openings created by the logging operations. The Big Stump Grove offers a blend of history and natural beauty. It's a place to reflect on the impact of human actions on the environment and to appreciate the enduring power of nature to regenerate and reclaim its space.

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