The General Sherman Tree Trail: A Walk Among Giants
Hike the General Sherman Tree Trail in Sequoia National Park and witness the world's largest tree, surrounded by the awe-inspiring beauty of the Giant Forest, a testament to nature's grandeur.
The General Sherman Tree Trail, located in Sequoia National Park, California, offers an unforgettable encounter with the largest tree on Earth by volume, the General Sherman Tree. This moderately easy, paved trail meanders through a grove of giant sequoias, providing breathtaking views and a humbling perspective on the scale and age of these ancient trees. The main trail is a half-mile descent to the tree, making the return trip a bit more strenuous. An accessible trail is also available. Visiting the General Sherman Tree is a must-do for anyone exploring Sequoia National Park, offering a chance to connect with nature's grandeur and appreciate the remarkable beauty of these natural wonders. Be sure to explore the surrounding Giant Forest to fully immerse yourself in the sequoia experience.
A brief summary to Sherman Tree Trail
- Sequoia National Park, California, 93262, US
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially during peak season, to avoid crowds and secure parking.
- Consider taking the free shuttle during the summer to avoid parking hassles and reduce traffic.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the main trail is paved but involves a descent (and subsequent ascent) with some stairs.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are no concessions directly on the trail.
- Combine your visit with a hike on the Congress Trail to further explore the Giant Forest.
Getting There
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Driving
From the Giant Forest Museum, drive approximately 2 miles north on the Generals Highway to Wolverton Road. Turn right onto Wolverton Road and continue for about 0.6 miles. Then, turn right again following signs for the General Sherman Tree. Continue for another 0.6 miles to reach the main Sherman Tree parking area. Parking can be limited during peak season. An alternative accessible parking area is located directly off the Generals Highway, about 2.2 miles north of the Giant Forest Museum, for vehicles with valid disability placards.
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Public Transport
During the summer (typically May through September), utilize the free Sequoia Shuttle. Park at designated shuttle parking areas (e.g., near Wuksachi Lodge or Lodgepole) and take the shuttle to the Giant Forest Museum. From there, transfer to the Green Route shuttle, which stops at both the main Sherman Tree Trailhead and the accessible trailhead. The shuttle is free, but lines can be long during peak hours. Check the park's website for the shuttle schedule and operating dates. The entrance fee to Sequoia National Park is included if you take the Sequoia Shuttle from Visalia.
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Walking
From the main Sherman Tree parking area, the trail is a 0.5-mile paved path descending to the General Sherman Tree. The return trip is uphill. Alternatively, from the accessible parking area (for vehicles with disability placards), the walk to the tree is much shorter and wheelchair-accessible. This route bypasses the steeper sections of the main trail.
Discover more about Sherman Tree Trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cattle Cabin
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Giant Forest
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Tharp's Log
2.8 km
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Wuksachi Lodge
2.8 km
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The Peaks Restaurant
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Crescent Meadow
2.9 km
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Squatters Cabin
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Beetle Rock Trail
3.1 km
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Tokopah Trailhead
3.3 km
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Tokopah Falls
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Middle Fork Trail
6.3 km
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Paradise Creek Trailhead
7.1 km
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Hospital Rock
7.3 km
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Pear Lake Winter Hut
7.5 km
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Alta Peak
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Unmissable attractions to see
General Sherman Tree
0.3 km
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The Congress Trail
0.4 km
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Chief Sequoyah Tree
1.2 km
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McKinley Tree
1.3 km
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Big Trees Trail
2.6 km
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Lodgepole Visitor Center
2.7 km
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Chimney Tree
2.7 km
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Giant Forest Museum
3.0 km
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The Giant Forest
3.1 km
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High Sierra Trailhead
3.3 km
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Sequoia National Park's Tunnel Log
3.7 km
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Hanging Rock
4.4 km
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Moro Rock Trail
4.4 km
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Moro Rock
4.7 km
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Marble Falls
4.9 km
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Essential places to dine
Lodgepole Campground
3.1 km
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Stony Creek Lodge
12.0 km
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Buckeye Tree Lodge & Cabins
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The Gateway Restaurant & 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
22.8 km
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Sequoia Cider Mill Restaurant
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Baker Mountain House
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Lazy J Ranch Motel - Three Rivers, CA
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Lodgepole Market & Grill
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Totem Market & Gifts
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Reimers Candies & Gifts
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Jerky This!
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Shell
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Three Rivers Market
21.3 km
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Sequoia Coffee Co.
21.4 km
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Sequoia Souveniers
21.4 km
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Gathered
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Sierra Subs & Salad
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Three Rivers Mercantile
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Village Market
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Kaweah General Store
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Grant Grove Gift Shop
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Grant Grove Market
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lake Canyon Ranch
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Serrano's Mexican Restaurant
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Next Bar
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Uncle Tom's Cabin
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Bespoke
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Modernist Craft Cocktail Bar
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The Bar
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Elliott's Bar
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The Shanty
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Howlin Wolf
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Spokeasy Public House
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Lucy's Lounge
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The Captains Brig
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The Lincoln Pub & Grub
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