10 Not-to-be-Missed Attractions

There is so much to see and do in Sequoia National Park, but here are some of our favorite destinations (that you can access via shuttle, of course!)

1. Giant Forest Museum

– This historic market building features interactive exhibits and a pleasant 1 mile loop through Round Meadow with trailside markers telling the story of America’s second national park. Visitors are invited to learn the defining characteristics and experience the splendor of the trees for which the park is named. // Route 1, Green Route, Giant Forest Museum Stop

2. General Sherman Tree

– The General Sherman Tree at Sequoia National Park is the largest tree in the world by volume, calculated to be over 52,500 cubic feet, while also being one of the tallest, widest and oldest living trees on Earth! Sequoia Shuttle’s Lower Sherman Tree stop will take you the closest to the tree, but it can also be accessed by the General Sherman Tree Trail and the Big Trees Trail. // Route 1, Green Route, Lower Sherman Tree Stop

3. Tokopah Falls

– The waterfall of Tokopah Canyon is one of the highest in California, measuring 1,200 feet high. To see it at its best, visit in early summer, when there is plenty of snowmelt from the Pear Lake region upstream. Be cautious, however, as the beautiful Tokopah Falls show little mercy to those who do not respect them. // Route 1, Green Route, Lodgepole Campground Stop

4. Moro Rock

– Moro Rock’s unique dome shape was created by gradual expansion and exfoliation (shedding) of the outer layers of rock. Visitors can experience the breathtaking views at the summit by climbing the pockmarked face of the rock… Or by simply taking the stairs. (However, keep in mind that during Peregrine falcon nesting season, rock climbing is not allowed.) The current 797-foot-long, 350-step stairway was established in 1931. // Route 2, Grey Route, Moro Rock Stop

5. Tharp’s Log

– Named after the area’s first non-Native American resident, Hale Tharp, Tharp’s Log is the park’s oldest cabin, dating back to the 1860s. This fallen tree was originally hollowed out by fire, but Tharp transformed it into his summer home by building a cabin extension with fireplace, door and window at the wider end. // Route 2, Grey Route, Crescent Meadow Stop

6. Crescent Meadow

– If you are hoping to spot some of the abundant wildlife in Sequoia National Park, be sure to check out Crescent Meadow. Wildflowers bloom in the spring and early summer, but the road here is closed on weekends and holidays to private vehicles, and can only be accessed by taking the Sequoia Shuttle or by hiking in. // Route 2, Grey Route, Crescent Meadow Stop

7. Tunnel Log

– This novelty landmark used to be a tree standing about 275 feet tall and measuring 21 feet in diameter at its base, which fell in December of 1937. It is now an aptly-named log featuring an 8-foot-tall tunnel allowing cars to drive through. Don’t worry fellow tree-lovers; the hole was cut after the tree was already dead. // Route 2, Grey Route, Crescent Meadow or Moro Rock Stop

8. Dorst Creek Campground

– Dorst Creek Campground is not only a great camping spot, but a fantastic place for visitors, as it is a hub for several popular short hikes. There are also quite a few meadows and streams within the grounds. Reservations for a site can be made up to six months in advance, but single-day guests are welcome to enjoy the area as well. // Route 3, Purple Route, Dorst campground Stop

9. Wuksachi Lodge

– Built in 1999, the Wuksachi Lodge is Sequoia National Park’s signature hotel. This iconic cedar-and-stone structure features a cocktail bar, full-service restaurant, ski shop and over 100 guest rooms. Picturesque views melded with modern amenities make this gateway location a must-see for visitors. // Take Route 1, Green Route from Giant Forest Museum to Lodgepole then Route 3, Purple Route to Wuksachi Lodge.

10. Lodgepole Visitor Center/Market/Campground

– This large campground is on the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River within easy walking distance of Lodgepole Village. At an elevation of 6,700 ft (2,042 m), the campground can be snowy in spring and fall. Lodgepole Village offers a visitor center, market, shower, and laundry facilities. In summer, ride the free Sequoia Shuttle. Many nearby trails are located here. // Route 1, Green Route

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