Overview
Giant Forest is a grove of giant sequoia trees located in Sequoia National Park, California. It is one of the most accessible and well-known groves of these majestic trees, offering visitors a chance to walk among some of the largest and oldest living things on Earth.
Giant Forest is significant for its collection of ancient giant sequoia trees, some of which are over 2,000 years old. It is a prime example of the unique ecosystems found in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Location
Address
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park, California
Neighborhood: Giant Forest
Coordinates
36.578000, -118.737800
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
April-October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
cooler temperatures and fewer crowds
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild, cooler mornings and evenings
- • wildflowers
- • waterfalls
summer
warm to hot, dry
- • all trails open
- • long daylight hours
autumn
cool, crisp air, colorful foliage
- • fall colors
- • cooler temperatures
winter
cold, snowy, some areas inaccessible
- • snowy landscapes
- • cross-country skiing
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Enter via Sequoia National Park entrance
- Bring bear-proof food storage
- Check road conditions
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate to strenuous
- • altitude sickness
- • wildlife encounters
- • hazardous weather
Medical facilities: first aid available, nearest hospital 1.5 hours away
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, comfortable, layered clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, hiking shoes or boots, sandals, inappropriate clothing
Booking Tips
- • 3-6 months for guided tours
- • National Park Service website
- • 48 hours for tours
- • available for guided tours
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
Size: 60 MB
Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets, Trail conditions
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe
Charging Stations: Visitor center
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Fresno Yosemite International Airport
Distance: 75 miles
Travel Time: 2.5 hours
From City Center
Distance: 10 miles from Three Rivers
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Unique natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, rich history
Historical Significance: Home to some of the largest and oldest trees on Earth, important for scientific research and conservation
Insider Tips
- Free ranger-led walks available daily
- Best sunset views from General Sherman Tree area
- Local café has great coffee and pastries
Local Recommendations
- • Try the Sequoia Scones at the Giant Forest Museum
- • Ask for guide Tom for detailed insights
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
General Sherman Tree
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Low angle to capture the full height
Result: Iconic shot of the largest tree by volume
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Moro Rock
Distance: 5 miles
Walking: N/A
Type: Viewpoint
Crescent Meadow
Distance: 2 miles
Walking: 15 min
Type: Hiking Trail
Tunnel Log
Distance: 1 mile
Walking: 5 min
Type: Scenic Drive
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Arrive early to avoid crowds"
- "Bring plenty of water"
- "Visit the General Sherman Tree first"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities
Search Term: "Giant Forest ,sequoia and kings canyon national park"
Products Found: 0
No related products found for this search term. Try searching manually:
Search for "Giant Forest ,sequoia and kings canyon national park"Quick Info
Available Tours
3
Rating
4.8 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
$35 per vehicle (Sequoia National Park entrance fee)