We had some extra time before starting the drive home, so we decided on 2 short hikes in the park. These both are very short, easy and well maintained, which also means lots of crowds! If you are only spending a short amount of time in Sequoia & Kings Canyon, I recommend at least seeing these two attractions.
Hike Info
Miles: 1.6 roundtrip
Elevation Change: 500 ft
Trail Type: Out and back
Trailhead: Google Maps
Cost: Free after $20 park admission fee
The Hikes
We woke up early at Lodgepole Campground and had breakfast while we let our tents dry. Although pricey ($44 for the weekend) and a little crowded for my taste, the bathroom facilities were very clean and warm, a refreshing change to the normal primitive campgrounds we stay at.
Our camp site on the first loop of the campground
We loaded up the car and headed to the General Sherman Tree parking lot, a half mile further than the handicap parking lot. It was a short walk along the highway to the trailhead, and we passed several large trees characteristic of Giant Forest.
Clara Barton Tree on the way from the parking lot
From the trailhead, the walk was mostly downhill on a paved path. We saw lots of wildlife this morning including chipmunks, squirrels, and woodpeckers.
Stopping at a bench to enjoy the morning sun
The paved path has several splits, allowing you to see several other notable trees in the area. We saw the target tree from a distance, and when we got closer we truly were amazed by its massive size. The tree is not the tallest or widest, but it does hold the largest volume. It measured 275 feet tall and 36.5 feet wide and is estimated to be 2,200 years old! It truly was amazing to see.
The largest tree in the world
Showing the massive size of the trunks
The hike back to the car was uphill, and although short, we were still out of breath up at 7,000 feet. After a quick stop at the museum across the street, we got back in the car and drove up to the Moro Rock parking lot.
The parking lot only holds about 15 cars, but you can still parallel park along the side of windy road. We managed to snag a spot and started climbing up the steps carved into the rock. It is truly a unique feature, you are treated to amazing views of the valley and snow capped mountains right from the beginning. Those scared of heights should be wary - some parts of the path are only narrow enough for one person the railings are quite low. We saw lots of chipmunks and hummingbirds enjoying the blossoming flowers out of the cracks of the rock.
Panoramic views right from the beginning
The snow really contrasts with the mountains
The steep steps are well maintained and not slippery
Interesting facts placed every couple hundred of feet
Spring time in the Sierras is a beautiful time
Looking down at the windy highway we took in
Ed and JQ enjoying the views
A rocky walkway
Emerging onto the top of the rock
It was difficult capturing the 360 degree views from the very top of the rock. We were lucky enough to be able to spend several minutes up there undisturbed, all squeezed up against the railings. You almost feel as if you are suspended in the air above the valley! Since it is one of the best views accessible by such an easy hike, I can imagine there being a long line for a picture at the end of the railing during the summer.
At the very end of the railings and hike
Fully satisfied with our weekend trip to SEKI, we piled in the car and headed home. It was great to spend a weekend out here before the summer crowds came in.
Other useful links:
Hikespeak - General Sherman Tree
Hikespeak - Moro Rock
Redwoodhikes - Moro Rock
KevinGong - Moro Rock
NPS
