Giant Sequoias

 

Merced Grove Closure

Merced Grove will be closed through September for tree work/biomass removal. 

 

Massive, ancient giant sequoias live in three groves in Yosemite National Park. The most easily accessible of these (spring through fall) is the Mariposa Grove near the park's South Entrance, off of the Wawona Road (Highway 41). Two smaller—and less visited—groves are the Tuolumne and Merced Groves near Crane Flat.

Mariposa Grove

Located near the South Entrance of Yosemite, the Mariposa Grove is the largest grove in the park and is home to over 500 mature giant sequoias. During much of the year a free shuttle is required for use between the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza and the Mariposa Grove. There is a variety of trails from easy to strenuous within the grove, as well as some accessible trails. Restrooms are located at the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza and areas within the grove. Drinking water is available only at the welcome plaza (year-round) and arrival area (summer only) so plan accordingly. The drive takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from Yosemite Valley.

Tuolumne Grove

Located on the Tioga Road just east of Crane Flat, the Tuolumne Grove has about two dozen mature giant sequoias. Sequoias are only visible after a one-mile hike with 500 feet of elevation loss. (The one-mile hike back to the parking lot gains 500 feet and is strenuous.) Water is not available; bring drinking water for everyone in your group who will be hiking this trail. The drive takes about 45 minutes from Yosemite Valley. Parking is limited.

Merced Grove

Located on the Big Oak Flat Road east of Big Oak Flat Entrance and approximately 6 miles west of Crane Flat, the Merced Grove has about two dozen mature giant sequoias. Sequoias are only visible after a 1.5-mile hike with 500 feet of elevation loss. (The 1.5-mile hike back to the parking lot gains 500 feet and is strenuous.) Water is not available; bring drinking water for everyone in your group who will be hiking this trail. The drive takes about 45 minutes from Yosemite Valley. Parking is extremely limited.

Videos

 

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  Yosemite Nature Notes 34: Giant Sequoias

  Giant sequoia trees are impressive in size, age, and resilience. This resilience is being tested by climate change and previous management practices. These challenges offer opportunities to research these wonderful trees and develop better ways to support their ability to thrive.

  Duration:

  8 minutes, 55 seconds

 

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  Last of the Monarchs: Giant Sequoias

  As part of ongoing efforts to protect forest health and reduce fire danger, the Mariposa County Resource Conservation District used grant funding from the Wildlife Conservation Board to produce a short introductory video about the threat to giant sequoias. Watch as our partners explain the risks and what we can do to protect the last of these monarchs.

  Duration:

  10 minutes, 34 seconds

 

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  Restoring the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias

  The Mariposa Grove reopened in June, 2018, after being closed three years for restoration. Crews improved habitat for sequoias by removing parking lots and roads, and restoring the natural flow of water to the trees. Parking was relocated two miles away from the grove, and is connected by shuttle buses. The restoration also added accessible trails and improved bathrooms. This was the largest restoration project in the history of the park.

  Duration:

  3 minutes, 55 seconds

 

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  Yosemite Nature Notes 11: Big Trees

  Most of Yosemite National Park is blanketed with vast forests, and with abundant precipitation and warm temperatures, these mountains are home to the largest trees in the world.

  Duration:

  8 minutes, 9 seconds