Discover the awe-inspiring General Grant Tree Trail, a short loop through massive sequoias in General Grant Grove, the heart of Sequoia National Park.
If you’re looking for a hike that combines history, natural beauty, and some of the world’s largest trees, the General Grant Tree Trail in Sequoia National Park is an absolute must. This easy loop trail lets you wander among giant sequoias, including the famous General Grant Tree, known as the nation’s Christmas tree. Along the way, you’ll encounter historical markers, fallen monarch sequoias, and breathtaking views that make the Grant Grove area a highlight of any visit to the Sierra Nevadas.
The General Grant Tree Trail and its surrounding grove are steeped in both natural and historical significance. The General Grant Tree, named after Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th President of the United States and Union Army general, was designated the nation’s Christmas tree in 1926 by President Calvin Coolidge. This honor was meant to celebrate the tree’s monumental size and longevity while honoring American history. The grove also preserves the legacy of early pioneers like the Gamlin Brothers, who were among the first to document and protect the giant sequoias in this area. Along the trail, visitors encounter remnants like the Centennial Stump, which marks where a giant sequoia once stood, as well as the National Shrine, created to honor veterans and intertwine the grove’s natural majesty with national memory. Over the decades, the trail has been maintained as one of the most popular short-distance hikes in the park, allowing visitors to experience both the awe of the giant sequoias and the rich history tied to General Grant Grove.
General Grant Tree Trail Basics
Under 1 Hour
Under 1 Mile
Loop Trail
32 Feet
Duration: Under 1 Hour
You can comfortably complete the General Grant Trail in 20–30 minutes, though many visitors linger to admire the massive trees and read historical markers along the loop.
Distance: Under 1 Mile
The trail is a short-distance loop, roughly 0.5 miles, with about a tenth of a mile between key points, making it an easy and accessible hike for visitors of all ages.
Type: Loop Trail
The trail is a loop trail, allowing hikers to start and finish at the Grant Grove parking area without backtracking.
Elevation Change: 32 Feet
Elevation change is minimal, making it suitable for beginners, families, and anyone looking for a leisurely hike in the Grant Grove area.
Season: Spring, Summer
The spring and summer months are ideal, when the grove is vibrant, the weather is mild, and the trail is fully accessible.
Time of Day: Morning
For a quieter, more serene experience, visit in the early morning when sunlight filters through the towering sequoias, and wildlife is more active. This is also the best time to find parking before the park gets busy.
Amount of Shade: Mostly Shaded
The trail is well-shaded for most of the route, thanks to the towering sequoias, making it comfortable even on warm days.
Difficulty: Easy
The General Grant Tree Trail is considered easy, making it accessible for most visitors, including children and casual hikers.
What Makes General Grant Tree Trail a Great Hike?
This trail combines accessibility with grandeur. You’ll see trees with cubic feet of wood rivaling the General Sherman Tree, touch living history, and learn about figures like Ulysses S. Grant, President Calvin Coolidge, and other historical ties reflected in tree names like the Lincoln Tree and California Tree. Landmarks like the Centennial Stump and Fallen Monarch sequoia add extra interest.
Scenery on the General Grant Tree Trail
Start of the Trail
Tall, straight sequoias surround the dirt trail, with sunlight filtering through the canopy and creating a magical forest atmosphere.
Burn scar at the back of the General Grant Tree
Our whole group in front of the Nation’s Christmas Tree
On the Trail
You’ll pass notable trees like the California Tree, Michigan Tree, and Tennessee Tree, as well as fallen sequoias perfect for photos. Historical markers provide insights into the area’s past.
End of the Trail
The General Grant Tree, the world’s third-largest tree, stands proudly near the National Shrine, a reminder of both natural majesty and national history.
Notable Places on the Hike
- Centennial Stump – a historical reminder of a giant sequoia lost to time.
- Fallen Monarch Sequoia – a photogenic highlight along the loop.
- Historic Gamlin Cabin – one of the first structures in the grove.
- National Shrine – honoring veterans, located at the General Grant Tree.
Just above the trail for the back of the tree is a fallen sequoia that you can climb through
Tyler had to get really low to try to get a photo of the entire tree
General Grant Tree Trailhead Information
Park Name: Kings Canyon National Park
The General Grant Tree Trail is located in General Grant Grove, part of the Grant Grove area within Sequoia-Kings Canyon National Parks in the Sierra Nevadas of California. Visitors reach the grove via Generals Highway, turning onto Grant Tree Road to access the Grant Grove parking area. This section of the park is home to some of the largest sequoias in the world, including the General Grant Tree, famously known as the nation’s Christmas tree. The grove sits at a relatively high elevation, providing cooler temperatures in summer and occasional snow in winter, making it a scenic destination year-round. The Grant Grove area is easily accessible from nearby campgrounds like Azalea Campground and from Grant Grove Village, which offers lodging, restrooms, and visitor services. Its proximity to other famous sequoia groves makes it a perfect stop for anyone exploring Sequoia National Park, Sequoia-Kings Canyon National Parks, or taking a drive along Generals Highway.
Finding the Trailhead
From Generals Highway, follow signs for Grant Tree Road to the Grant Grove parking area. The main trail starts on the left-hand side of the parking lot, with markers along the trail guiding you to the General Grant Tree.
Markers Along the Trail
Informative plaques detail historical events, tree statistics, and ecological facts. Signs highlight the Civil War, Ulysses S. Grant, Gamlin Brothers, and the first park ranger.
Nearest Restrooms
Restrooms are available at Grant Grove Village and near the visitor center, making it convenient for families.
Parking Area
The Grant Grove parking area is adjacent to the trailhead and provides ample space for visitors.
Other Trails at this Trailhead
Nearby trails include the Big Stump Loop Trail and North Grove Loop, all accessible from the Grant Grove parking area. The General Grant Tree Trail can be combined with these longer trails for a full day of exploring.
Tips for General Grant Tree Trail
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds.
- Bring bear spray due to the large black bear population.
- Wear sturdy shoes even for this short distance loop.
- Take time to read historical markers along the side of the trail.
- Combine with the North Grove Loop or Big Stump Trail for more exploration.
- Don’t miss the famous Mark Twain Tree Stump nearby.
Accessibility Information for General Grant Tree Trail
Dirt
Paved
Trail Type: Dirt
The mostly level dirt trail is accessible to many, though wheelchairs may need assistance.
Parking: Paved
The Grant Grove parking area is paved and convenient for all visitors.