How to Access the Trail of 100 Giants in Sequoia National Monument
Located 200 miles north of Los Angeles, Giant Sequoia National Monument was designated a national monument by President Clinton. Since Sequoia groves can be found throughout the western Sierra Nevada, different areas have been set aside for protection, and agencies are working to protect the trees wherever they are, using all government resources possible. The “Trail of 100 Giants” is the most popular trail in the monument and is accessible via the Western Divide Highway.
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Instructions
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Plan to visit in the summer. The road may be closed in the winter and depending on the snowpack, well into spring. There are several campgrounds along the Western Divide Highway.
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Use the map to locate Ducor, California. County Road M56 takes the visitor west of Ducor and into Sequoia National Forest where it intersects with the Western Divide Highway. Take Western Divide Highway and follow the directional signs. One should expect some automobile and pedestrian congestion near the trail.
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Stop at the Redwood Meadow parking area which is across the highway from the trailhead. Note that this is a very easy hike: a paved half mile loop through towering trees. There is little grade change, and thus stroller and wheelchair accessible.
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Cross the highway and begin the hike. There are usually brochures that assist the visitor on the trail. They are in a wooden box and are free. Donations are accepted. Since the trail is a loop, follow the traffic flow and stay to the right.
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Look for small signs placed by the Forest Service explaining significant facts about the trees. The signs are numbered and correspond with the numbers in the brochure.
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Continue on the Trail of 100 Giants and note the beautifully green meadows existing among the grove. Though many remain marshy all year, late spring and early summer allow the meadows to bloom with California wildflowers.
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Stop at any number of benches provided and relax. If visiting early in the morning, before the crowds, one can hear a gentle breeze among the tree tops.
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Return to the parking area, crossing several wooden bridges along the way. The campground has restroom facilities.
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Tips & Warnings
Make reservations early for any campground.
There are many hotels to choose from in Visalia or Bakersfield.
Watch out for bears.
Resources
- Photo Credit James Barnett
