Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail
Visiting the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail provides the chance to see up close some of the largest and oldest living trees on Earth, including the iconic Grizzly Giant. This unique experience sets it apart from other trails, for an unforgettable experience.
| 🚶♀️ Distance | 7 miles |
| ⏱️ Time | 4 to 6 hours |
| 💪 Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
| 🏔️ Elevation | 5,600 feet |
Where can I find Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail within Yosemite National Park?
The Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail can be found within Mariposa Grove in Yosemite National Park. The closest entrance to the Mariposa Grove is the South Entrance, where you turn onto Mariposa Grove Road shortly after passing the South Entrance Station and drive to the trailhead.
Parking is available at the end of Mariposa Grove Road. However, this is reserved for visitors with disability placards. In traffic relieving attempts from April to November, you'll have to park at the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza and use the free shuttle.
What makes this hike so special?
The Mariposa Grove is home to over 500 mature giant sequoias, some standing nearly 209 feet tall, and you'll find the Grizzly Giant here, the most famous of them all. Walking among these towering giants is a unique and awe-inspiring.
There are also other hikes available during this circuit, including Guardians Loop Trail covering 6.5 miles, Grizzy Giant Loop at 2 miles, and Big Trees Loop a short 0.3 miles, so everyone can enjoy the trees.
| Natural beauty and scenery | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Wildlife spotting | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Peace and quiet | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Accessibility | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
What are the highlights of hiking Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail?
The impressive Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail takes you through a grove that is home to hundreds of mature giant sequoias, including the famous Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree. Prepare to feel totally dwarfed by this incredible natural beauty.
- Grizzly Giant - A colossal giant sequoia, one of the largest and oldest trees on the planet.
- California Tunnel Tree - Famous for a tunnel carved through its base in the late 19th century, allowing visitors to walk through it.
- Faithful Couple - Two giant sequoias standing closely together, appearing to be in a natural embrace.
- Clothespin Tree - Known for its distinctive, nearly parallel branches that resemble a clothespin.
- Wawona Point - Amazing views can be enjoyed over Yosemite Valley and the surrounding wilderness..
When is the best time of year to visit Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail?
Mariposa Grove Road is open from mid-April to November when you'll be able to use the free shuttle to arrive at the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trailhead. During late-spring and summer the weather is also fairer, with fall showcasing stunning colors emerging across the forest.
| Spring | 🌷 From mid-April Mariposa Grove Road is open and you can use the free shuttle to explore the grove and trail. |
| Summer | ☀️ Summer offers warm and pleasant hiking weather with the most reliable trail conditions. |
| Fall | 🍂 Fall provides cooler temperatures, making it comfortable for hiking and glorious changing colors of the forest. |
| Winter | ❄️ During winter the road is closed, and you'll have to hike, snowshoe or cross-country ski along Mariposa Grove Road to reach the trailhead. |
Common questions about hiking Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail
Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail offers a unique and memorable hiking experience amidst some of the world's most remarkable trees and natural beauty. There are some facilities available before you set out, but still make sure to carry enough supplies with you for the day.
Is Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail easily accessible for those with mobility issues?
⭕ Yes, Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail is fairly accessible for those with mobility issues, with flat surfaces in most places.
❗ During the summer season, a free shuttle service operates, making it easier for individuals with mobility challenges to access the grove.
Are there restrooms along Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail?
⭕ Yes, there are restrooms located near the parking area for Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail.
Are there refreshments and water stations along Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail?
⭕ Yes, there are water stations located near the parking area for Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail.
Are dogs allowed along Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail?
❌ No, dogs are not allowed along Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail.
Are vehicles allowed along Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail?
❌ No, cars, electric scooters, and ATVs are not allowed on Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail, only the free shuttle bus provided.
Can you camp overnight along Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail (or nearby)?
❌ No, you can not overnight along Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail.
❗ For those staying overnight, there are campgrounds in nearby Wawona, such as the Wawona Campground.
Is there anything else to watch out for when I hike Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail?
Here you can pick a trail to suit you. If the full Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail is too long, then the Big Trees Loop Trail is the easiest while the Grizzly Giant Loop Trail is more moderate.
