Mariposa Grove
Walk among giants! Mariposa Grove boasts over 500 mature giant sequoias, some thousands of years old, offering a humbling and awe-inspiring natural sp...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Mariposa Grove
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walk among giants! Mariposa Grove boasts over 500 mature giant sequoias, some thousands of years old, offering a humbling and awe-inspiring natural spectacle.
"An unforgettable experience and a must-see in Yosemite!"
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled for your exploration. Water stations available. :water_wave:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grizzly Giant
Mariposa Grove
Stand in awe of one of the largest trees in the world, a true ancient wonder.
California Tunnel Tree
Mariposa Grove
Walk through a living sequoia, a unique and unforgettable experience.
Wawona Tunnel Tree (Fallen Monarch)
Mariposa Grove
Explore the interior of a massive fallen sequoia, a testament to their immense size.
Mariposa Grove Trails
Mariposa Grove
Wander through diverse trails, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes amidst giants.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds
Shuttle Access and Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled for your exploration. Water stations available. :water_wave:
Check Shuttle Status
Shuttles are often required. Confirm schedules before you go. :bus:
Allow Ample Time
Don't rush! Soak in the majesty of these ancient trees. :clock1:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled for your exploration. Water stations available. :water_wave:
Check Shuttle Status
Shuttles are often required. Confirm schedules before you go. :bus:
Allow Ample Time
Don't rush! Soak in the majesty of these ancient trees. :clock1:
Respect the Trees
Do not touch or climb on the sequoias. They are ancient and fragile. :evergreen_tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently describe Mariposa Grove as a stunning, magical, and awe-inspiring experience. The sheer size and age of the giant sequoias leave a lasting impression, with well-maintained trails offering accessible exploration. While it can get busy, the humbling encounter with nature's grandeur is universally praised.
"Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is absolutely stunning—a truly magical place filled with breathtaking trees. There’s a large parking lot and a visitor center with very friendly, helpful staff who gave us great information before we headed out. From there, we took the shuttle up to the walking path (note: if you’re handicap, you can actually drive up directly).
There are restrooms both at the visitor center and up by the trees, plus a convenient water fill station with fresh snow water from the area. The walking path itself is easy to follow, and every turn offers incredible views of these majestic giants. An unforgettable experience and a must-see in Yosemite!"
Lisa Osborn
"Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is a truly awe-inspiring place and one of the highlights of Yosemite. Walking among these ancient giants, some thousands of years old, gives a humbling sense of nature’s power and beauty. The trails are well marked and vary in difficulty, from easy walks to longer hikes for those who want to explore deeper. The famous Grizzly Giant and the California Tunnel Tree are unforgettable sights. It can get busy during peak hours, but the experience of standing among these magnificent sequoias is absolutely worth it. A magical and unforgettable part of the park."
Ernesto Guevara
"I had an absolutely beautiful experience at Mariposa Grove. From the moment I stepped onto the trail, I felt immersed in a sense of peace and awe. The towering sequoias, some thousands of years old, are truly humbling to stand beneath. It's a place that reminds you just how powerful and timeless nature can be.
The trails were well-maintained and offered a variety of paths depending on your pace and time. I especially loved seeing the Grizzly Giant and the Tunnel Tree, icons that somehow still surpassed expectations. The air was crisp, the forest was quiet except for birdsong and the soft rustling of leaves, and the views were breathtaking throughout.
Whether you're looking for a gentle walk or a longer hike through history, Mariposa Grove offers something truly special. Highly recommend it for anyone visiting Yosemite, it's not just a place, it’s an experience."
King
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mariposa Grove is located in the southern part of Yosemite National Park. During peak season, you'll likely need to park at the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza and take a free shuttle to the grove itself. Check the NPS website for current access information.
Yes, there is a large parking lot at the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza. However, it can fill up quickly, especially during busy times. Arrive early or be prepared to use the shuttle.
Typically, private vehicles are restricted from driving directly to the grove during peak season. A shuttle service is provided from the Welcome Plaza. Those with accessibility needs may have different options.
From Yosemite Valley, take Highway 41 South towards Wawona. The Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza will be on your right. If coming from the south entrance, it's a short drive north on Highway 41.
Yes, Oakhurst and Bass Lake are nearby towns with accommodations. The Narrow Gauge Inn is also located close to the park entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While Mariposa Grove itself doesn't typically require a separate reservation, Yosemite National Park may have a peak-hours vehicle reservation system in place. Always check the official Yosemite National Park website for the most up-to-date entry requirements before your visit.
Mariposa Grove is generally open year-round, but access and shuttle operations can vary seasonally. The Welcome Plaza and shuttle service have specific operating hours. Check the NPS website for current times.
Mariposa Grove is within Yosemite National Park, so you will need to pay the park entrance fee. The shuttle service from the Welcome Plaza is typically free.
Yes, visitors with disabilities may have options for driving directly to the grove. Contact the park or visit the Welcome Plaza for specific information and assistance.
Pets are generally not allowed on the trails within Mariposa Grove to protect the sensitive environment and the giant sequoias. Service animals are typically permitted.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Big Trees Loop Trail is an easy, accessible 0.3-mile loop. The Grizzly Giant Loop Trail is a moderate 2-mile loop. For a longer hike, consider the Mariposa Grove Trail to the upper grove.
You can see some of the main attractions on a short visit (1-2 hours), but to fully explore the trails and appreciate the grove, plan for 3-4 hours or more.
The Grizzly Giant, the California Tunnel Tree, and the Fallen Monarch (Wawona Tunnel Tree) are among the most iconic and must-see giant sequoias. 
Yes, the Big Trees Loop Trail is very accessible and suitable for families with strollers and young children. The other trails offer more challenge but can be managed with older children.
The elevation gain varies by trail. The Big Trees Loop is relatively flat. The Grizzly Giant Loop has about 500 feet of elevation gain over 2 miles.
📸 📸 Photography
Anywhere you can capture the scale of the sequoias! The Grizzly Giant, Tunnel Tree, and Fallen Monarch are iconic. Look for unique angles looking up at the canopy or framing trees with the forest.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, dramatic shots. Golden hour light filtering through the trees is magical.
Drone usage is generally prohibited in national parks, including Mariposa Grove, to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check current regulations.
Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full height of the trees. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions or to ensure sharp images. Experiment with aperture for depth of field.
While the entire grove is photogenic, the areas around the Grizzly Giant and the Fallen Monarch offer classic perspectives. Look for openings in the canopy for dramatic light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
Pack plenty of snacks and water, and consider visiting during the cooler parts of the day. The shuttle ride itself can be an adventure for kids! Remember to keep them close and emphasize the importance of respecting the ancient trees.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
If you have more time and energy, the Mariposa Grove Trail extends further into the upper grove, providing a more extensive hiking experience. Combine trails to create a longer trek and discover more secluded areas of this ancient forest.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the full scale of the trees. Look for unique compositions, such as framing the trees against the sky or capturing the textures of their bark. The Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree are iconic subjects.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majesty of Giant Sequoias
+1Walking among these giants feels like stepping back in time. The sheer scale of the trees, with their thick, reddish bark and towering canopies, is breathtaking. Each tree has a unique character, shaped by centuries of growth, fire, and weather. It's a powerful reminder of nature's enduring strength and beauty.
+1Key trees to look for include the Grizzly Giant, one of the oldest and most massive sequoias, and the California Tunnel Tree, through which visitors can walk. The Fallen Monarch (also known as the Wawona Tunnel Tree) is a fallen giant that you can explore from the inside, offering a unique perspective on its colossal structure.
+2Exploring Mariposa Grove Trails
For a more immersive experience, the Grizzly Giant Loop Trail is a moderate 2-mile hike that takes you to iconic trees like the Grizzly Giant and the California Tunnel Tree. This trail involves some elevation gain and offers a deeper exploration of the grove.
More adventurous visitors can extend their hike on the Mariposa Grove Trail, which leads to the upper grove and offers stunning views and fewer crowds. This longer trail can be combined with other paths for a more comprehensive exploration, allowing you to truly connect with the ancient forest.
Historical Significance of Mariposa Grove
This protection set a precedent for preserving natural landscapes for future generations. The grove has been a source of inspiration and wonder for visitors for over a century, drawing people from around the world to witness the grandeur of the giant sequoias.
The grove's history is intertwined with the conservation movement. Its preservation was a crucial step in advocating for the protection of other natural treasures across the United States, solidifying its place as a landmark in the history of conservation.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit