Walking Among Giants: Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias in Yosemite
Nestled near Yosemite’s South Entrance, Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is the largest grove of its kind in the park and one of the most iconic destinations in the Sierra Nevada. These ancient trees — some over 3,000 years old — tower above visitors with a quiet majesty that’s hard to describe and impossible to forget.
Getting There
Visitors begin their journey at the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza, where a free shuttle (seasonal) or a scenic 2-mile hike leads to the Lower Grove. From there, trails wind through towering sequoias, offering options for every fitness level.
- Grizzly Giant Loop Trail (2 miles): See the famous Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree.
- Mariposa Grove Trail (7 miles): A moderate hike through the Upper Grove, including Faithful Couple, Clothespin Tree, and the fallen Wawona Tunnel Tree.
Highlights of the Grove
- Grizzly Giant: Estimated at 2,700 years old, this massive sequoia is one of the oldest and largest in the grove.
- Bachelor and Three Graces: A photogenic cluster of trees with intertwined roots and graceful symmetry.
- Fallen Monarch: A horizontal giant that once hosted cavalry horses atop its trunk in an 1899 photo.
- California Tunnel Tree: A living sequoia with a man-made tunnel carved in 1895 — you can walk through it!
Tips for Visitors
- Best time to visit: Late spring through fall, when shuttles run and trails are clear.
- Accessibility: Limited vehicle access for those with disability placards; otherwise, plan to hike or shuttle.
- What to bring: Water, snacks, layers, and a camera — the light filtering through the canopy is magical.
