5 Breathtaking Hikes in Rugged and Majestic Sequoia National Park

Tall trees and stunning trails 

If you're heading into Sequoia National Park, get ready to look up! This park is home to some of the largest trees in the world, including General Sherman — the biggest single-stem tree on earth. The General stands at a massive 275 feet and boasts an expansive 36-foot diameter. Some say this tree dates as far back as 700 to 300 BCE.

While General Sherman is certainly a sight to behold, the rest of the park delivers plenty spectacular views of California's stunning landscape. 

Established in 1890, Sequoia National Park was the second national park established in the United States (in case you’re wondering, Yellowstone was the first). Sequoia covers over 404,000 acres and includes a section of neighboring Kings Canyon National Park.

More than 80% of Sequoia National Park is pure wilderness, making it an ideal spot for secluded and pristine hiking experiences. Parks and Landmarks have put together five of our favorite hikes. You’ll find something for everyone — easy, family-friendly hikes to more advanced treks into the backwoods of the park.

Remember that every trail on our list requires a park fee to be paid to use them.

General Sherman Tree Trail

No list would be complete without mentioning the General Sherman trail. The 1-mile loop trail takes you right up to the base of General Sherman himself. Be ready to capture some stunning photo opportunities.

Along the route, you’ll find informational signage with interesting facts about the surrounding trees and ecosystem. 

This hike is perfect for families with young children or anyone looking for a shorter trail with plenty to see and learn along the way.

Total Distance: 1.18 miles

Elevation Gain: 49.2 feet

Difficulty: Easy - Hiking, Walking

Route Type: Out & Back

Other Info:

• No dogs allowed on its trail
• Between October and June, roads leading to this trail may be closed due to weather
• This trail is partially paved
• This trail is very popular, leaving large crowds in the middle of most days

Big Trees Trail

Big Trees trail will satisfy those who are interested in still seeing the massive Sequoia trees up close but want to do it with slightly less of a crowd.

While this trail can become crowded at times, the crowds are far less dense than those on the General Sherman trail. Plus, the paved route allows people to spread out a bit more. 

The trail’s incredible picnic areas nestled within the sequoia groves make for a perfect lunch break spot.

Total Distance: 1.18 miles

Elevation Gain: 108 feet

Difficulty: Easy - Hiking, Walking

Route Type: Loop

Other Info:

• This trail is wheelchair and stroller accessible
• No dogs allowed on this trail
• Between October and June, roads leading to this trail may be closed due to weather
• This trail is very popular, leaving large crowds in the middle of most days
• Giant Forest Museum is nearby and worth visiting to learn more

Tokopah Falls

Ready for something a bit more challenging and off the beaten path? Tokopah Falls trail may be just what you're looking for.

Head through the woodlands and creek crossings that Sequoia National Park is known for before arriving at the beautiful Tokopah Falls. 

Because much of the water comes from the glacier's runoff on the high peaks, the flow of the falls is strongest in spring and early summer.

Total Distance: 3.79 miles

Elevation Gain: 626 feet

Difficulty: Moderate - Hiking

Route Type: Out & Back

Other Info:

• The waterfalls are usually small during the dry season
• Bears are common on this trail — Bringing bear spray is recommended
• This trail is rocky in sections — Bring proper hiking footwear
• Between October and June, roads leading to this trail may be closed due to weather

Watchtower Trail

If you want to move from casual hiker to advanced, then the Watchtower Trail is for you. 

The strenuous 6-mile hike takes you through Sequoia's woodlands before ascending to stunning panoramic views of the surrounding national park from atop Moro Rock, a giant granite dome rock formation. 

If you visit during the hotter seasons, Heather Lake has been inviting hikers to come and take a dip for generations. So make sure you pack your swimsuits.

This trail has a campground too. But if you are interested in staying on the trail overnight, you will need an overnight permit.

Total Distance: 8.20 miles

Elevation Gain: 2073 feet

Difficulty: Moderate - Hiking

Route Type: Out & Back

Other Info:

• Bears are common on this trail — Bringing bear spray is recommended
• Between October and June, roads leading to this trail may be closed due to weather
• This trail is rocky in sections — Bring proper hiking footwear
• This trail is not recommended for those with a fear of heights

Lakes Trail

Pure wilderness. That's what awaits hikers on the Lakes Trail. This long and tiring hike will take you to four prestigious mountain lakes that sit at 9,000 feet in altitude, each more breathtaking than the last.

Considered an all-time favorite for many backcountry hikers, the trail takes you through dense woodlands and open meadows with rocky mountain views sprinkled in. 

You may even be lucky enough to spot some local wildlife, such as black bears or mule deer. Make sure you are prepared and have a camera ready because you will take many pictures on this trail.

Total Distance: 11.61 miles

Elevation Gain: 3234 feet

Difficulty: Hard - Hiking

Route Type: Out & Back

Other Info:

• No dogs allowed on this trail
• This trail is only recommended for those with a high physical fitness level or who have experience with back-country hiking
• This trail is very rocky, so good hiking boots and hiking poles are recommended
• Bears are common on this trail — Bringing bear spray is recommended
• Between October and June, roads leading to this trail may be closed due to weather
• Staying on this trail after dark requires a park permit.

So no matter what level of hiker you are, Sequoia National Park has a trail for you. Each one offers something unique and special that will leave you in awe of the beauty of nature. Start planning your next hike today!

Happy trails!