Sequoia National Park is home to deep caves and the biggest tree in the world. While first-time visitors to Sequoia National Park are drawn to the giant sequoia trees, the 404,051-acre park offers many more attractions.
The 70 miles between the giant sequoias and Mount Whitney are filled with dozens of trails and no roads. This vast expanse of wilderness offers once-in-a-lifetime exploring. Backpackers are rewarded with stunning vistas of Alta Sierra and casual visitors can catch unforgettable views by climbing the steps to the top of Moro Rock.
The following activities and sights are located on the western side of the park except Mount Whitney, which is located on the east side. Don't forget to reserve a campsite so you can experience as much as possible.
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General Sherman Tree
The biggest tree in the world is not the tallest because its top broke off years ago. Yet, its girth increases yearly. This 2,000-year-old tree is the star attraction in the so-called Giant Forest, weighing in at about 2.7 million pounds.
Giant Forest
Named by John Muir, this large grove of sequoia trees is best experienced on foot via the two-mile Congress Trail that loops around the two largest trees on the planet.
Moro Rock
Moro Rock is a granite dome monolith that attracts hundreds of eager sightseers who mount the 400 steps to the summit. The airy perch at the top provides a panoramic view of the drama of the Great Western Divide. It's hard to get this kind of view without being a mountaineer so it's worth the effort.
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Crystal Cave
Crystal Cave is one of 200 marble and crystal caves in the park. Take a guided tour to learn more about the geography of these ancient caves that are filled with stalactites and stalagmites.
Crescent Meadow
This high-mountain meadow offers a one-hour loop trail that accesses several other trailheads, including the High Sierra Trail. Remember to drive through Tunnel Log—a sequoia that fell across the road in Crescent Meadow and can now be driven under.
Photo by Inga Askamit, Tunnel Log
Tokopah Falls
A scenic 3.8-mile hike runs along the Kaweah River through a glacier-carved canyon, ending at Tokopah Falls. Many wildflowers can be seen throughout the summer and marmots can often be spotted sunning themselves on rocks along the trail.