Gentle Giants

Experience the giants of Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

Some people visit national parks to marvel at the iconic sights, while others come seeking solitude in nature. With visitation on the rise, it can be hard to find both. But in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, this pair of trails offers just that: the chance to experience the giant sequoias in two very different ways, offering awe-inspiring wonder and quiet serenity.

Begin with the General Grant Tree Trail. There’s a reason this half-mile paved loop draws a crowd: It winds through one of the most stunning sequoia groves in the entire park. You’ll encounter the General Grant Tree, soaring 268 feet in the air, the second-largest living tree in the world. Along the way, you can step inside the hollow Fallen Monarch and peek into the historic Gamlin Cabin.

When you’re ready to trade crowds for calm, take a right from the General Grant Tree Trail down the parking lot, looking for a brown metal gate on the far end. Beyond it lies the North Grove Loop, a 1.7-mile trail that feels wilder and more rugged than its manicured neighbor. 

This walk travels through a shady conifer forest featuring clusters of majestic sequoias you can walk right up to. Though parts of the landscape do bear fire scars, renewal is everywhere, with fresh green growth pushing through. The best part: Chances are you’ll have the trail–and the towering giants–all to yourself. 

Directions. Parking in the General Grove Parking Lot. No dogs. 

Story and photos by Yvonne Pasquini, @yvonne_pasquini

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Gentle Giants

    Some people visit national parks to marvel at the iconic sights, while others come seeking solitude in nature. With visitation on the rise, it can be hard to find both. But in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, this pair of trails offers both....

    View
  2. Screaming Good Garden

    Combine a classic scary movie backdrop and life-size elephant garden sculptures in beautiful downtown Sonoma.

    View
  3. A Hike to the Past

    This 5.2-mile redwoods hike through El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space combines a relaxing stroll with unique geologic formations and historical artifacts.

    View
  4. Golden Mile

    Dubbed the Golden Mile, this car-free stretch of road in Golden Gate Park features rotating art installations of murals, sculptures, and abundant bright yellow Adirondack chairs for kicking back to relax. See Naga, the recent new addition here, an impressive sea serpent art installation at Golden Gate Park's Rainbow

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Sponsored

    Chase Fall Colors & Family Fun in Reno Tahoe

    Ready to Reno? We’re so with you! Reno Tahoe is the ultimate urban basecamp for gathering family and friends for all kinds of fall fun and festivities.

    View
  2. Welcome to the Ice Age

    Only in LA can you stumble upon a lake of bubbling black goo right in the middle of the city—complete with a life-size family of mammoths frozen in time. Take a whiff and you’ll catch the unmistakable scent of asphalt: Yep, you’ve made it to the La Brea Tar Pits & Museum.

    View
  3. Griffith's Golden

    With over 4,200 acres and hundreds of trails, Griffith Park is the gold standard. Opt for the lesser-hiked northwestern end of the park and visit the 2.25-mile Skyline and Oak Canyon loop from Travel Town.

    View
  4. Mulholland's Most Majestic

    Take a leisurely drive along Mulholland Drive to discover beautiful urban scenery and unexpected wild beauty, right in the middle of the city. 

    View