Big Trees Loop is a 0.6 mile flat loop that allows you to be surrounded by giant trees and be greeted with the peaceful sounds of the meadow. Interpretive panels are located throughout this loop to increase your knowledge of these big beauties. 

Tip: Pack a lunch and enjoy your lunch surrounded by nature. Remember to take all of your trash to keep our parks clean.

Although this site is very popular Moro Rock is a MUST. The hike itself is only 0.5 miles but the 300 foot elevation gain and 350 steep stairs that lead you to the top make it feel otherwise. Keeping an eye on the weather is a must. There is absolutely no way anyone should attempt this hike in the rain. We promise even if you have a fear of heights the views at the top are worth conquering that fear! (We even have a happy selfie at the top to prove it haha)

Tip: This would be the perfect location to grab your morning cup of coffee/tea and watch the sunrise. 

Congress Trail is a 3.3 mile roundtrip hike that immerses you back into the land of giant trees. Yes, this trail does start off by the popular Giant Sherman Tree the crowds thin out as you follow the trail. The President, Senate, and the House are also names of some of the biggest trees in the world and can be found here.

Tip: Continue a little bit deeper into the trail to grab that magical photo opportunity without dealing with the crowds.

Tunnel Log is an opportunity to capture a cool picture of your car driving through a tree. Yes you heard that right. You can drive through a fallen Sequoia as long as your vehicle isn't over 8 feet tall. 

Tip: If your vehicle is over 8 feet like ours we just got a picture of the tunnel by itself. Nearby we propped the van up against some trees which made for another awesome photo!

Crescent Meadow and Tharp’s Log is a 1.3 mile roundtrip hike that brings you to the most beautiful meadow. Throughout the hike there are unique sites such as an old cabin (Tharp’s Log) that was built into the hallowed out center of one of the giant sequoias. It is truly fascinating to see how humans used these giant trees as shelter. 

Tip: Like most of the trails throughout the park the deeper you go the more peaceful it becomes with less crowds. 

There are a few opportunities to see waterfalls throughout both parks. One we stopped to see is the Roaring River Falls. There is a very short 0.2 mile hike that leads you to a ROARING waterfall, depending on the time of year you visit. The picture above is of Grizzly Falls which stands 75 feet tall.  If you are like us no matter how many we have seen waterfalls never get old. 

Tip: All of the waterfalls seem to be popular destinations to have a picnic. To avoid crowded areas alternative plans might be more ideal.

A 50 mile scenic drive leads you down a mountainous road full of pristine views. I know you might be thinking 50 miles!? We promise the scenery you will be offered along the road is well worth it. This drive also leads you to the waterfalls we mentioned above. 

Tip: Zumwalt Meadow is a pit stop a long the way and provides a 1.5 mile hike with a river to soak your feet. 

You are probably wondering where we rest our heads for the night in our Sprinter Van. We generally do not stay at campgrounds as we enjoy more of a peaceful solitary environment. There are multiple campgrounds located throughout the park though. Make sure to make a reservation!

Without having to leave the park there is a road that leads you into the National Forest where there were plenty of opportunities to park off road. If you look on a map it is the road heading towards Hume Lake. We love adventuring every night to see what dispersed camp spot we can find! Like the picture above we sometimes luck out and get the BEST views all to ourselves! 

Please make sure to take everything with you when you leave!!! Respect the parks! 

• Crystal Cave: Open only in summer purchase advance tickets to tour this marble cave.
• Hume Lake: Originally a water supply for flume now offers tourists a place to swim, and engage in recreational water activities.
• Buck Rock Lookout: A fire lookout that leads you up 172 steps to the top.
• Mount Whitney: Up for an overnight 22 mile hike on the tallest mountain in the contiguous United States?