Place

Sequoia National Park Historic Entrance Sign

A large piece of wood is carved to resemble a Native American face
This historic sign is found by the Ash Mt. entrance station

Quick Facts
Location:
Generals Highway, just beyond Ash Mountain Entrance Station

Audio Description, Parking - Auto, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Trash/Litter Receptacles

Warning, this area burned in the recent KNP Complex Wildfire. Enter river trail here at your own risk. Stay on trail. Hazards include but not limited to falling trees or tree limbs, loose rocks, flash flooding, and debris flows. Portions of the trail may be blocked with debris. 

This historic entrance sign was constructed in 1935 by Civilian Conservation Corps craftsmen based on a smaller design from a National Park Service architect. Over time, the original sign has been updated and painted. A sequoia log four feet in diameter supports the sign, complete with sequoia bark.

History emanates from some objects. Sequoia National Park's entrance sign, with its powerful presence at the boundary, is one such antique. Its origins speak of varying aspects of our past. But is this sign, with its Indian head image, still appropriate for display today? Learn more about the story of the sign and the cultural history questions it raises today 

Accessibility

There is designated accessible parking at this scenic viewpoint. A paved sidewalk leads to the Historic Entrance Sign and views of the river.

Community Science

The foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountain range are home to the blue oak woodlands. Ongoing drought, inconsistent snowpack, wildfires, bark beetles, and other environmental factors place this sensitive ecosystem at risk. Park scientists closely monitor the blue oak trees to measure the growth, and death, of this important species.

Are you a middle school or high school student? Your class can join us in collecting data to learn more about blue oaks. Students work alongside park rangers to collect data in two oak plots here, serving as community scientists. They gain basic forestry skills and help the parks better understand this changing landscape.

Call 559-565-4211 or email seki_ritc@nps.gov to learn more about the community-science field trip opportunities offered at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

Last updated: February 28, 2023