Big Time Hike

Big on the scene these days in Yosemite: about 500 giant sequoias in the park’s newly reopened Mariposa Grove. Tucked in the southern part, this grove is the largest of giant sequoias in Yosemite. It was closed for several years for major restoration to improve habitat and enhance this historic spot that in 1864 President Lincoln protected via legislation.

There are a variety of hikes you can do here to see the behemoth trees. We recommend this grand tour at 7.5 miles (round-trip) which includes Wawona Point, a spectacular overlook that’s ideal for a lunch break.

Start at the Mariposa Grove Arrival Area on the Mariposa Grove Trail. The trail is wide and mostly flat, passing famous sequoias like the Fallen Monarch, Bachelor, Three Graces, and the—whoa—Grizzly Giant, 209 feet of big!

Continue to other popular trees: Faithful Couple and Clothespin (so named for how it is splintered in the middle, resembling a clothespin).

At the Mariposa Tree, take the detour trail to Mariposa Cabin, then cut back to Mariposa Grove Trail and up to Wawona Point. At 6,800 feet, you get a panorama of the valley below.

You can return the way you came on the Mariposa Grove Trail, but to mix things up we recommend taking the Perimeter Trail for a change of scenery. Big adventure indeed.

Mariposa Grove is typically open year round. Park at the new Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza and take the short shuttle to the trailhead. NOTE: In 2021 Mariposa Grove is not running the shuttle service to the grove, adding an extra 4-miles to the hiking distance. No dogs. Map & Info.