General Sherman Tree
Home to the world's largest tree by volume, the General Sherman Tree is a colossal ancient giant in Sequoia National Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light
General Sherman Tree
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Home to the world's largest tree by volume, the General Sherman Tree is a colossal ancient giant in Sequoia National Park.
"The tree in itself is HUGE. The biggest one I’d ever seen (it is indeed the biggest by volume)."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trail to the tree is paved but can be steep on the return. Good walking shoes are a must!
💧 Stay Hydrated
The elevation means thinner air. Bring plenty of water, especially for the uphill climb back.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
General Sherman Tree
Giant Forest
Stand in awe of the world's largest tree by volume, a colossal giant estimated to be over 2,200 years old.
Congress Trail
Giant Forest
A scenic paved loop trail offering stunning views of numerous giant sequoias, including the General Sherman Tree.
Giant Forest Museum
Giant Forest
Learn about the history and science behind these ancient giants through informative exhibits and displays.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for the Climb
Beat the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trail to the tree is paved but can be steep on the return. Good walking shoes are a must! +1
💧 Stay Hydrated
The elevation means thinner air. Bring plenty of water, especially for the uphill climb back.
📸 Patience for Photos
Expect to wait for a clear shot of the General Sherman Tree during busy times.
🚗 Drive Carefully
The roads to Sequoia National Park are winding and steep. Drive slowly and enjoy the scenic journey.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trail to the tree is paved but can be steep on the return. Good walking shoes are a must! +1
💧 Stay Hydrated
The elevation means thinner air. Bring plenty of water, especially for the uphill climb back.
📸 Patience for Photos
Expect to wait for a clear shot of the General Sherman Tree during busy times.
🚗 Drive Carefully
The roads to Sequoia National Park are winding and steep. Drive slowly and enjoy the scenic journey.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Mountain weather can change quickly. Layers are key for comfort throughout your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the awe-inspiring scale and ancient beauty of the General Sherman Tree and the surrounding giant sequoias. The drive and the uphill return hike are noted challenges, but the breathtaking scenery and unique experience are widely considered worth the effort. +1
"The drive there is not to be taken lightly! It’s a windy steep drive and I was going 30mph at most, since the turns are so steep. The walk to the Sherman tree is about 15 minutes downhill and a bit longer uphill, the air is thin up there so don’t be surprised if you run out of breath, it’s a steep climb. The tree in itself is HUGE. The biggest one I’d ever seen (it is indeed the biggest by volume). The pictures look great and the nature is stunning, beautiful views of the other big trees too. I recommend going, worth the drive."
Odeta
"Finally got a chance to make it here! It’s breathtaking and very peaceful. The short paved trail leading to the tree is well-maintained, with plenty of scenic views of other giant sequoias along the way. There are informative signs and museum in the park that share the history and science behind these incredible trees, which makes the walk even more meaningful.
It can get crowded during peak hours, may need to wait in line for the photos of the General Sherman Tree, but everyone seems to share a quiet sense of awe when standing before this living giant. Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or first-time visitor, this is a must-see landmark and one of the most unforgettable sights in California."
Wesley Chen
"Gorgeous place to adventure by yourself or with your favorite people. The path is somewhat steep for some people and can be strenuous during the hike back up to the parking lot. You get the chance to see some of the largest and oldest trees in the entire world, and at 275ft tall, the General Sherman tree is astounding to stand by in person. Really crazy and unbelievable! Highly recommended, and my only regret is I don't have more time to adventure and hike through Sequoia!"
Travis Fenn
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The General Sherman Tree is located in the Giant Forest of Sequoia National Park. Access is via Generals Highway. Be prepared for a steep and winding drive. Parking is available near the trailhead, but can fill up quickly.
Yes, there is a parking area for the General Sherman Tree Trail. However, it can get crowded, especially during peak season. Arriving early is recommended.
You can drive to the vicinity of the General Sherman Tree. The trail from the parking lot is about 0.5 miles.
The most common routes involve taking CA-198 East from Visalia. The drive is scenic but can be challenging due to steep grades and sharp turns.
Sequoia National Park offers shuttle services during peak seasons, which can help alleviate parking issues and provide access to popular areas like the General Sherman Tree. Check the park's official website for current shuttle information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you need to pay an entrance fee to enter Sequoia National Park. This fee covers access to both Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.
Sequoia National Park is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, visitor centers and facilities have specific operating hours. The General Sherman Tree is accessible at all times.
The entrance fee for Sequoia National Park is typically per vehicle and is valid for 7 days. Check the official NPS website for the most current pricing.
It is highly recommended to purchase your park entrance pass online in advance through recreation.gov to save time upon arrival.
Discounts may be available for seniors, military personnel, and those with disability passes. Annual passes like the America the Beautiful Pass are also an option for frequent visitors.
🎫 🌲 Onsite Experience
The General Sherman Tree Trail is approximately 0.5 miles (0.8 km) roundtrip. It's a paved path with some elevation change.
The main trail to the General Sherman Tree is paved and accessible for most visitors, though it does have some inclines. Wheelchair access may be challenging due to the grade.
Most visitors spend about 30-60 minutes at the General Sherman Tree, including the walk to and from the parking lot and time to admire the tree.
The Congress Trail, which starts near the General Sherman Tree, leads you through a grove of other magnificent giant sequoias. The Giant Forest Museum is also nearby. +1
No, the General Sherman Tree is the largest tree in the world by volume, but not the tallest. That title belongs to Hyperion, a coastal redwood.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more magical atmosphere.
Drones are generally prohibited in national parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the park's current regulations.
To capture its immense scale, try getting low to the ground or using a wide-angle lens. Including people in the frame can help convey its size.
Yes, winter offers a unique photographic opportunity with snow-dusted trees, creating a serene and dramatic landscape.
While photography is generally encouraged, avoid using flash photography inside any visitor centers or museums. Respect any posted signage regarding photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and water, as amenities can be spread out. The Giant Forest Museum provides engaging exhibits that can capture children's imaginations and teach them about these incredible trees.
🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers
Nature lovers will be captivated by the sheer biodiversity of the park, not just the giant sequoias but also the varied ecosystems and potential wildlife sightings. Take time to appreciate the smaller details – the unique flora, the sounds of the forest, and the crisp mountain air.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with different angles, focal lengths, and compositions to capture its grandeur. Early morning and late afternoon light can create dramatic and ethereal scenes, especially when mist or fog rolls through the forest. The Giant Forest and Congress Trail provide numerous opportunities to photograph other ancient sequoias, as well as the interplay of light and shadow filtering through the dense canopy.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majesty of Giant Sequoias
Sequoia National Park is one of the primary places to witness these natural wonders. The Giant Forest is home to five of the ten largest trees in the world, making it a truly special place for nature enthusiasts. The park was established in 1890 to protect these magnificent trees from logging, ensuring their survival for future generations.
Visiting the General Sherman Tree is an experience that connects you to the deep history of our planet. Standing at its base, you can't help but feel a sense of awe and insignificance in the face of such ancient, colossal life. It's a powerful reminder of nature's grandeur and the importance of conservation efforts.
Navigating Sequoia National Park
Parking at popular trailheads, like the one for the General Sherman Tree, can be a significant challenge, particularly during peak seasons and holidays. Many visitors recommend arriving as early as possible in the morning to secure a spot.
When planning your visit, consider the time of year. Winter can bring snow, transforming the park into a magical landscape but also potentially leading to road closures.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit