Beetle Rock: A Granite Vista in Sequoia's Giant Forest
Discover panoramic views and natural beauty at Beetle Rock in Sequoia National Park, an accessible granite vista offering a memorable experience for all visitors.
Beetle Rock, located near the Giant Forest Museum in Sequoia National Park, is an easily accessible granite outcropping offering stunning panoramic views. A short, paved trail leads to the rock, making it a family-friendly destination. From the summit, visitors can enjoy sweeping vistas of the western edge of the park and the San Joaquin Valley. While beautiful at sunset, the view also sometimes includes a stark reminder of air pollution. The rock itself hosts hardy trees clinging to life in its cracks, adding to the unique charm of this accessible viewpoint. It's a perfect spot for a picnic, a moment of reflection, or simply soaking in the grandeur of the Sierra Nevada.
A brief summary to Beetle Rock Trail
- 47050 Generals Hwy, Three Rivers, California, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
- Check the air quality forecast before you go; smog can sometimes obscure the views.
- Bring a picnic blanket to relax and enjoy the scenery on the granite surface.
- Wear sturdy shoes as the rock surface can be slippery, especially when wet.
- Store food properly in bear-resistant containers and be aware of your surroundings.
Getting There
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Driving
From the Generals Highway, whether approaching from the south (Three Rivers) or north (Grant Grove), follow signs for the Giant Forest Museum. Beetle Rock is located a short walk from the museum's parking area. Note that parking at the Giant Forest Museum can be limited, especially during peak season. If the main lot is full, consider using the overflow parking and walking or taking the free park shuttle (seasonal) to the museum area. During winter, tire chains may be required on Generals Highway; check current road conditions before your visit. A park entrance fee of $35 per vehicle is required to enter Sequoia National Park, valid for seven days.
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Public Transport
During the summer months, a free park shuttle operates within Sequoia National Park, providing access to Beetle Rock from various points within the Giant Forest and Lodgepole areas. Check the park's website for the shuttle schedule and route map. Take Route 2 to the Giant Forest Museum stop. From the shuttle stop, Beetle Rock is a short walk across the road. Note that the shuttle service is seasonal, and does not operate during the off-season. A park entrance fee of $35 per vehicle is required to enter Sequoia National Park, valid for seven days. Alternatively, an individual pass (for those entering on foot or bicycle) costs $20.
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Walking
If you are already in the Giant Forest area, such as at the General Sherman Tree or the Big Trees Trail, follow the paved paths and signs towards the Giant Forest Museum. Beetle Rock is located a short distance from the museum, across the Generals Highway. Use caution when crossing the highway. The walk from the General Sherman Tree is approximately 1.5 miles and mostly flat. No additional costs are associated with walking to Beetle Rock within the park, beyond the initial park entrance fee of $35 per vehicle or $20 per individual.
Discover more about Beetle Rock Trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Beetle Rock Trail
0.0 km
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Squatters Cabin
1.9 km
Discover the charm of Squatters Cabin, a historical landmark in California that showcases the pioneering spirit and rustic beauty of early settler life.
Cattle Cabin
1.9 km
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Giant Forest
2.1 km
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Crescent Meadow
2.4 km
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Tharp's Log
2.9 km
Step back in time at Tharp's Log, a remarkable pioneer cabin built inside a fallen giant sequoia, offering a unique glimpse into the early days of Sequoia National Park and the Giant Forest.
Middle Fork Trail
4.6 km
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Hospital Rock
4.9 km
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Paradise Creek Trailhead
4.9 km
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Marble Falls Trailhead
5.3 km
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Wuksachi Lodge
5.4 km
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The Peaks Restaurant
5.4 km
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Tokopah Trailhead
6.4 km
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Tokopah Falls
9.0 km
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Muir Grove
9.2 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Giant Forest Museum
0.1 km
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Big Trees Trail
0.6 km
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Hanging Rock
1.8 km
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Sequoia National Park's Tunnel Log
1.8 km
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Marble Falls
1.9 km
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McKinley Tree
2.1 km
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Moro Rock Trail
2.1 km
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Moro Rock
2.4 km
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Chief Sequoyah Tree
2.4 km
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Chimney Tree
2.5 km
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High Sierra Trailhead
2.5 km
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Vista Point
2.8 km
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General Sherman Tree
2.8 km
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The Congress Trail
2.8 km
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Sherman Tree Trail
3.1 km
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Essential places to dine
Lodgepole Campground
6.2 km
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Buckeye Tree Lodge & Cabins
11.0 km
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The Gateway Restaurant & Lodge
11.1 km
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Stony Creek Lodge
12.5 km
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Montecito Sequoia Lodge
16.9 km
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River View Grill & Bar
17.0 km
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Tony's Taverna On Wheels
17.2 km
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Rio Sierra Riverhouse
17.6 km
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Pupusas La Sabrosa Three Rivers
18.1 km
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Ol Buckaroo
18.2 km
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Pizza Factory
19.6 km
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Casa Mendoza Mexican Restaurant
19.7 km
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Sequoia Cider Mill Restaurant
20.9 km
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Lazy J Ranch Motel - Three Rivers, CA
22.1 km
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Baker Mountain House
22.7 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Lodgepole Market & Grill
5.8 km
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Totem Market & Gifts
12.3 km
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Reimers Candies & Gifts
16.9 km
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Jerky This!
17.0 km
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Shell
18.2 km
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Three Rivers Market
18.2 km
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Sequoia Coffee Co.
18.3 km
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Sequoia Souveniers
18.3 km
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Gathered
18.3 km
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Sierra Subs & Salad
18.3 km
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Three Rivers Mercantile
19.3 km
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Village Market
19.7 km
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Kaweah General Store
20.7 km
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Grant Grove Gift Shop
25.8 km
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Grant Grove Market
25.9 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lake Canyon Ranch
13.5 km
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Serrano's Mexican Restaurant
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Next Bar
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Uncle Tom's Cabin
91.3 km
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Bespoke
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Modernist Craft Cocktail Bar
92.3 km
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Quail State
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The Bar
92.7 km
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Elliott's Bar
93.1 km
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The Shanty
93.8 km
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Howlin Wolf
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Spokeasy Public House
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Lucy's Lounge
94.2 km
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The Lincoln Pub & Grub
94.4 km
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The Captains Brig
94.4 km
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