Muir Grove: A Secluded Sequoia Sanctuary
Discover a serene escape among giant sequoias in Muir Grove, a hidden gem in Sequoia National Park offering a tranquil and intimate experience with nature's giants.
Escape the crowds and discover the serene beauty of Muir Grove, a hidden gem within Sequoia National Park. Named after the legendary naturalist John Muir, this 215-acre grove offers a more secluded and intimate experience with giant sequoias. Hike through a mixed-conifer forest, cross gentle streams, and ascend to a ridge where you'll be greeted by a breathtaking circle of towering sequoias. The grove's relative isolation ensures a tranquil atmosphere, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the majesty of these ancient giants. While the trail itself features limited sequoias, the stunning Sierra woodland scenery and the rewarding destination make Muir Grove a worthwhile adventure for those seeking solitude and natural splendor. Keep an eye out for wildlife, and in mid-summer, enjoy the vibrant display of lupines blooming amidst the cinnamon-red sequoia bark.
A brief summary to Muir Grove
- California, US
Local tips
- Visit during the week or in the early morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Check the status of Dorst Creek Campground before your visit; if it's closed, you'll need to park along the Generals Highway and walk an extra mile to the trailhead.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes, as the trail can be uneven and rocky in places.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the trail.
- In mid-summer, keep an eye out for lupines blooming amidst the sequoias, adding a splash of color to the landscape.
Getting There
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Driving
To reach Muir Grove, navigate to Sequoia National Park via Generals Highway (Highway 198 from the south or Highway 180 from the north). From the Generals Highway, look for signs for Dorst Creek Campground, approximately 8 miles north of Lodgepole. Turn into the campground. Note that vehicles over 22 feet long are prohibited on the Generals Highway between Hospital Rock and Giant Forest, so longer vehicles should use Highway 180 to the northern park entrance. If Dorst Creek Campground is open (typically late June to early September), park in the amphitheater parking lot. If the campground is closed, park outside the gate along the Generals Highway, being careful not to block the entrance. Parking along the highway adds about 2 miles to the hike. From the parking area (either inside or outside the campground), follow signs for the Muir Grove Trail. The trailhead is located near group campsite B or E within the campground. There are no parking fees specific to the Muir Grove trailhead, but entering Sequoia National Park requires a park entrance fee of $35 per vehicle, valid for 7 days.
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Public Transport
During the summer, take the free Purple Route 3 shuttle from Lodgepole Visitor Center and Campground or Wuksachi Lodge to the Dorst Campground stop. From the Dorst Campground shuttle stop, walk to Group Camp Area A-E to find the trailhead near group site B. The shuttle is free to use once inside the park, after paying the park entrance fee. The Sequoia Shuttle offers service from Visalia, Farmersville, Exeter, Lemon Cove, and Three Rivers to Sequoia National Park, with round-trip tickets costing $20. This shuttle requires reservations and provides access to the in-park shuttle system.
Discover more about Muir Grove
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Muir Grove
0.0 km
Discover a serene escape among giant sequoias in Muir Grove, a hidden gem in Sequoia National Park offering a tranquil and intimate experience with nature's giants.
The Peaks Restaurant
7.9 km
Experience the beauty of Sequoia National Park while enjoying delectable American cuisine at The Peaks Restaurant, a perfect blend of nature and flavors.
Wuksachi Lodge
7.9 km
Experience rustic elegance in Sequoia National Park at Wuksachi Lodge, offering modern comforts, stunning views, and easy access to the park's iconic giant sequoias and breathtaking wilderness.
Beetle Rock Trail
9.2 km
Discover panoramic views and natural beauty at Beetle Rock in Sequoia National Park, an accessible granite vista offering a memorable experience for all visitors.
Cattle Cabin
10.0 km
Experience California's ranching heritage at the Cattle Cabin, a historical landmark set in the stunning natural landscapes of the region.
Tokopah Trailhead
10.5 km
Hike to the stunning 1,200-foot Tokopah Falls in Sequoia National Park, a moderate 3.4-mile trail through granite cliffs and lush forests along the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River.
Giant Forest
10.8 km
Discover the awe-inspiring Giant Forest in Sequoia National Park: home to the world's largest trees, offering accessible trails and a profound connection with nature's ancient wonders.
Squatters Cabin
10.9 km
Discover the charm of Squatters Cabin, a historical landmark in California that showcases the pioneering spirit and rustic beauty of early settler life.
Crescent Meadow
11.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Crescent Meadow in Sequoia National Park, a lush, sequoia-rimmed oasis offering easy trails, abundant wildlife, and a connection to nature's giants.
Tharp's Log
11.5 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.
Marble Falls Trailhead
12.7 km
Hike to a stunning waterfall through the rugged beauty of Sequoia National Park's foothills; a moderate trail offering breathtaking views and a rewarding outdoor experience.
Tokopah Falls
13.3 km
Explore the breathtaking Tokopah Falls in Sequoia National Park, a stunning natural waterfall surrounded by majestic granite cliffs and lush wilderness.
Hospital Rock
13.6 km
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Paradise Creek Trailhead
13.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of Sequoia's foothills on the Paradise Creek Trail, a gentle hike through diverse landscapes, perfect for year-round exploration and nature lovers.
Middle Fork Trail
13.8 km
Hike the Middle Fork Trail in Sequoia National Park for a unique foothills adventure, stunning canyon views, and a chance to escape the crowds and discover hidden gems.
Unmissable attractions to see
Big Baldy
6.1 km
Hike to the summit of Big Baldy for panoramic views of Kings Canyon National Park and the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Big Baldy Trailhead from Montecito Sequoia Lodge
7.7 km
Discover the beauty of California at Big Baldy Trailhead, a premier hiking destination offering breathtaking views and unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Big Baldy Ridge Trailhead
8.3 km
Discover the breathtaking views and invigorating trails at Big Baldy Ridge Trailhead, a must-visit destination for hiking enthusiasts in California.
Marble Falls
9.3 km
Experience the serene beauty of Marble Falls, a stunning waterfall in California, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers amidst picturesque landscapes.
Sherman Tree Trail
9.3 km
Explore the iconic Sherman Tree Trail in Sequoia National Park, home to the magnificent General Sherman Tree and breathtaking natural beauty.
Giant Forest Museum
9.3 km
Explore the Giant Forest Museum, a gateway to the majestic sequoias of Sequoia National Park, blending education with breathtaking natural beauty.
The Giant Forest
9.4 km
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General Sherman Tree
9.4 km
Explore the breathtaking General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on Earth, nestled in the stunning Sequoia National Park's majestic landscape.
Big Trees Trail
9.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Big Trees Trail in California, where towering sequoias and stunning landscapes await every nature lover.
The Congress Trail
9.5 km
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Lodgepole Visitor Center
9.8 km
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McKinley Tree
9.8 km
Explore the breathtaking McKinley Tree in California's Sierra Nevada, a scenic spot perfect for nature lovers and families seeking tranquility.
Chief Sequoyah Tree
10.1 km
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Hanging Rock
10.9 km
Experience breathtaking views from a precariously perched rock in Sequoia National Park. An easy hike with a thrilling reward.
Vista Point
10.9 km
Discover the breathtaking views of Sequoia National Park from Vista Point, a must-visit scenic spot for nature lovers and photographers.
Essential places to dine
Stony Creek Lodge
3.7 km
Experience rustic charm at Stony Creek Lodge in Sequoia National Park - your perfect retreat into nature's breathtaking beauty.
Montecito Sequoia Lodge
7.8 km
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Lodgepole Campground
10.2 km
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Baker Mountain House
16.4 km
Experience delectable dining at Baker Mountain House in Badger, California—where local flavors meet stunning mountain views.
John Muir Lodge
16.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of John Muir Lodge in Kings Canyon National Park—your gateway to majestic landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Grant Grove Restaurant
16.6 km
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Buckeye Tree Lodge & Cabins
16.8 km
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The Gateway Restaurant & Lodge
16.9 km
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River View Grill & Bar
21.0 km
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Tony's Taverna On Wheels
21.2 km
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Rio Sierra Riverhouse
21.6 km
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Pupusas La Sabrosa Three Rivers
22.1 km
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Ol Buckaroo
22.3 km
Discover Ol Buckaroo: A delightful New American restaurant in Three Rivers offering unique flavors and unforgettable dining experiences.
Pizza Factory
23.6 km
Experience family-friendly dining at Pizza Factory in Three Rivers – savor delicious pizzas and authentic Italian cuisine near Sequoia National Park.
Casa Mendoza Mexican Restaurant
23.7 km
Discover authentic Mexican cuisine at Casa Mendoza in Three Rivers—where vibrant flavors meet stunning scenery.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Lodgepole Market & Grill
9.9 km
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Grant Grove Gift Shop
16.6 km
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Grant Grove Market
16.6 km
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Totem Market & Gifts
17.6 km
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Reimers Candies & Gifts
20.9 km
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Jerky This!
21.0 km
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Shell
22.2 km
Discover Sierra Drive in Three Rivers: Your go-to gas station with essential amenities, delicious meals, and a gateway to California's natural beauty.
Three Rivers Market
22.2 km
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Sequoia Coffee Co.
22.3 km
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Sequoia Souveniers
22.3 km
Explore Sequoia Souveniers for unique gifts and keepsakes that celebrate the beauty of California's Sierra Nevada region.
Gathered
22.3 km
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Sierra Subs & Salad
22.3 km
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Three Rivers Mercantile
23.3 km
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Village Market
23.7 km
Discover the Village Market in Three Rivers, CA – your go-to grocery store near Sequoia National Park, offering fresh produce, snacks, and local essentials.
Kaweah General Store
24.6 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lake Canyon Ranch
21.7 km
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Serrano's Mexican Restaurant
23.7 km
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Next Bar
83.4 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and diverse menu at Next Bar, a must-visit bar and grill in Fresno, California, perfect for socializing and relaxing.
Uncle Tom's Cabin
84.5 km
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The Bar
85.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Fresno at The Bar, your go-to spot for karaoke, pool, and fun.
Elliott's Bar
85.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and diverse culinary offerings at Elliott's Bar, Fresno's premier bar and grill destination.
Bespoke
85.5 km
Discover Bespoke, Fresno's premier cocktail bar and event venue, where crafted drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await your visit.
Modernist Craft Cocktail Bar
85.5 km
Experience the art of mixology at Fresno's Modernist Craft Cocktail Bar, where each drink tells a unique story.
Quail State
85.9 km
Discover Quail State in Fresno, CA - a vibrant bar offering unique brunch delights and signature cocktails in a lively downtown setting.
The Shanty
86.6 km
Experience the lively atmosphere, delicious drinks, and unforgettable karaoke nights at The Shanty in Fresno, California.
Howlin Wolf
87.1 km
Discover Howlin Wolf, Fresno's premier cocktail bar, where innovative drinks and lively atmosphere meet in the heart of the Tower District.
Spokeasy Public House
87.1 km
Discover Spokeasy Public House in Fresno - a vibrant pub with craft beers, local art, and a unique bike-themed atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
The Captains Brig
87.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Captains Brig, Fresno's favorite cocktail bar offering unique drinks and a lively social scene.
Lucy's Lounge
87.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Fresno at Lucy's Lounge, where innovative cocktails meet live music in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Lincoln Pub & Grub
87.5 km
Discover the heart of Fresno dining at The Lincoln Pub & Grub, where delicious grill favorites meet a vibrant atmosphere in the Tower District.
