Giant Forest Museum: Gateway to Sequoia Giants
Discover the wonders of Sequoia National Park at the Giant Forest Museum, your gateway to exploring ancient sequoia groves and learning about their unique ecosystem and history.
The Giant Forest Museum, nestled within Sequoia National Park's Giant Forest, offers an engaging introduction to the ecology and history of giant sequoias. Housed in a historic 1928 market building designed by Gilbert Stanley Underwood, the museum features interactive exhibits detailing the life cycle of these colossal trees and the vital role of fire in their propagation. From the museum, visitors can easily access several trails, including the accessible Big Trees Trail and the Hazelwood Nature Trail, which wind through groves of ancient sequoias. During the summer, the museum serves as a crucial transportation hub with free shuttles connecting to popular destinations like the General Sherman Tree and Moro Rock, making it an essential starting point for exploring the park's natural wonders. The museum provides a gateway to understanding and appreciating the magnificent sequoias.
A brief summary to Giant Forest Museum
- 47050 Generals Hwy, Three Rivers, California, 93271, US
- +1559-565-4438
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially during peak season, to avoid parking congestion and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Take advantage of the free in-park shuttles during the summer to reach popular destinations like the General Sherman Tree and Moro Rock, avoiding parking hassles.
- Check the park's website or visitor center for ranger-led programs and guided tours to enhance your understanding of the sequoias and the park's history.
- Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as you'll likely be doing some walking on the trails surrounding the museum.
- Borrow a wheelchair for free at the Giant Forest Museum, Lodgepole Visitor Center, or Kings Canyon Visitor Center.
Getting There
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Driving
From the Ash Mountain Entrance of Sequoia National Park, follow Generals Highway (Highway 198) north for approximately 16 miles. The drive takes about 45 minutes, winding through the foothills and into the Giant Forest. Be aware of the vehicle length advisory for vehicles over 22 feet. Parking is available near the Giant Forest Museum, but it can fill up quickly during peak season. Consider arriving early or using the shuttle system. Park entrance fee is $20 per vehicle (valid for 1-7 days).
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Public Transport
During the summer, the Sequoia Shuttle offers service from Visalia and Three Rivers directly to the Giant Forest Museum. Reservations are required and can be made at sequoiashuttle.com or by calling 877-287-4453. Round-trip tickets from Visalia are $20, which includes the park entrance fee. Once at the Giant Forest Museum, transfer to the free in-park shuttles to reach other attractions.
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Shuttle
During the summer months, free in-park shuttles operate from the Giant Forest Museum to various destinations within Sequoia National Park, including the General Sherman Tree, Moro Rock, and Crescent Meadow. These shuttles are wheelchair accessible. Check the park's website for the shuttle schedule and route information. The shuttle is free to use once inside the park.
Discover more about Giant Forest Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Beetle Rock Trail
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Squatters Cabin
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Cattle Cabin
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Giant Forest
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Crescent Meadow
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Tharp's Log
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Middle Fork Trail
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Paradise Creek Trailhead
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Hospital Rock
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Wuksachi Lodge
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Marble Falls Trailhead
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Tokopah Trailhead
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Tokopah Falls
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Muir Grove
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Unmissable attractions to see
The Giant Forest
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Big Trees Trail
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Sequoia National Park's Tunnel Log
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Hanging Rock
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McKinley Tree
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Marble Falls
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Moro Rock Trail
2.1 km
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Chief Sequoyah Tree
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Chimney Tree
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Moro Rock
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High Sierra Trailhead
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General Sherman Tree
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The Congress Trail
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Vista Point
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Sherman Tree Trail
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Essential places to dine
Lodgepole Campground
6.1 km
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Buckeye Tree Lodge & Cabins
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The Gateway Restaurant & Lodge
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Stony Creek Lodge
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Montecito Sequoia Lodge
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River View Grill & Bar
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Tony's Taverna On Wheels
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Rio Sierra Riverhouse
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Pupusas La Sabrosa Three Rivers
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Ol Buckaroo
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Pizza Factory
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Casa Mendoza Mexican Restaurant
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Sequoia Cider Mill Restaurant
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Lazy J Ranch Motel - Three Rivers, CA
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Baker Mountain House
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Totem Market & Gifts
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Reimers Candies & Gifts
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Shell
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Three Rivers Market
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Sequoia Coffee Co.
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Sequoia Souveniers
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Sierra Subs & Salad
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Three Rivers Mercantile
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Village Market
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Elliott's Bar
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The Shanty
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Lucy's Lounge
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