Sequoia National Park, nestled in California’s Sierra Nevada, is a destination where nature’s wonders capture the imagination. Home to the world’s largest trees, marble caverns, and breathtaking vistas, Sequoia offers both family-friendly outings and wild adventures for seasoned explorers. Whether planning your first visit or seeking new experiences, here are the top 5 things to do in Sequoia National Park in 2025, each offering a unique window into this mystical, giant-filled forest.
1. Stand Before the General Sherman Tree
The centerpiece of Sequoia National Park, the General Sherman Tree, isn’t just the park’s star attraction—it’s the largest tree in the world by volume. Towering at nearly 275 feet with a 102-foot circumference, General Sherman is estimated to be over 2,000 years old. Standing at the base of this living giant provides a humbling, almost spiritual, encounter with nature on an epic scale.
The trail to General Sherman is short and accessible, making it a must-visit for all ages. Interpretive signs along the path offer insights into the sequoia’s growth and the broader ecology of Giant Forest. Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon ensures fewer crowds and a peaceful atmosphere beneath the massive branches.
2. Climb the Steps of Moro Rock
For breathtaking, panoramic views across the Sierra Nevada, climbing Moro Rock is an essential Sequoia experience. This granite dome sits high above the forest, and a staircase of over 350 steps has been carved into its side to guide visitors to the summit. The effort is rewarded by sweeping vistas of jagged peaks, forested hills, and—on a clear day—distant valleys shimmering under California sunlight.
Moro Rock is especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset, when alpenglow paints the stone in hues of pink and orange. While the climb is short (just 0.5 miles round trip), there are steep drop-offs, so those with a strong fear of heights should use caution. Railings and handholds are provided for safety, and the summit area is well protected for viewing.
3. Journey Underground at Crystal Cave
Hidden beneath the imposing trunks and lush terrain lies Crystal Cave—a marble cavern sculpted by thousands of years of water and mineral magic. Crystal Cave is the only cave in Sequoia accessible to the public, and it’s renowned for its sparkling mineral formations, intricate stalactites, and cool, otherworldly caverns.
Guided tours offered by Sequoia Parks Conservancy run from late May through September. The tours last around 50 minutes and require pre-booking, as tickets often sell out quickly in summer. The cave is a fantastic way to escape midday heat and discover a different, subterranean side of the park. Bring a light jacket—the temperature inside the cave is much cooler than outside.
4. Drive (or Walk) Through Tunnel Log
Sequoia National Park offers some uniquely memorable landmarks, and Tunnel Log is among the quirkiest. When a giant sequoia tree fell across Crescent Meadow Road in 1937, park employees carved a 17-foot-wide, 8-foot-high tunnel through its base. Today, most cars can cruise through the log—a classic national park photo opportunity—or you can simply walk under and marvel at the tree rings of this ancient fallen giant.
For drivers, make sure your vehicle fits the clearance before attempting! The surrounding forest is lovely, and nearby hiking trails offer additional scenic stops. Tunnel Log is a fun, brief stop suitable for all visitors and a reminder of both nature’s power and humans’ creativity in making wild spaces accessible.
5. Hike the Tokopah Falls Trail
Beyond colossal trees and granite domes, Sequoia rewards hikers with hidden waterfalls and serene landscapes. The Tokopah Falls Trail is one of the park’s best short hikes, tracing the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River to the base of a spectacular 1,200-foot waterfall. Along the 3.4-mile roundtrip path, hikers traverse meadows, forests, and rocky outcrops, often spotting wildflowers and birds.
The trailhead is near Lodgepole Campground, making it convenient for campers and day-trippers alike. The falls are especially impressive in late spring and early summer, when snowmelt sends torrents of water cascading over granite cliffs. This trail offers an intimate look at Sequoia’s varied beauty beyond the famous trees.
Honorable Mentions
- Giant Forest Museum: An excellent starting point for understanding the ecology and history of sequoia trees and the park itself. Interactive exhibits and ranger talks help visitors appreciate the wonders around them.
- Congress Trail: This 2.9-mile loop takes visitors deeper into the heart of the Giant Forest, passing famous trees like The President and legislative groves named for U.S. governing bodies.
- Stargazing: Thanks to its remote location and low light pollution, Sequoia is spectacular for stargazing. Join a ranger-led stargazing walk or simply gaze up from Wuksachi Lodge after dark for a memorable celestial display.
- Marble Falls Hike: A popular 6.3-mile trail in the foothills, especially colorful with spring wildflowers and ideal in the cooler months.
Planning Tips for Your Visit
- Book Crystal Cave tours in advance as spots fill up during peak season.
- Visit early or late in the day to avoid crowds, especially at General Sherman Tree and Moro Rock.
- Pack layers: Weather can shift quickly between shaded, misty forests and exposed rocky outcrops.
- Be bear aware: Store food securely and follow all park guidelines for wildlife safety.
- Check for road closures (especially to Tunnel Log, Moro Rock, and high-country hikes) during the shoulder seasons or after major storms.
Conclusion
Sequoia National Park’s top activities celebrate both nature’s grandeur and its subtleties—from the world’s largest tree to hidden waterfalls, underground worlds, granite summits, and whimsical landmarks. Whether gazing skyward at ancient giants or peering into an ancient marble cave, each experience here is steeped in the park’s timeless magic. A visit to Sequoia is truly an encounter with the sublime—one that deserves a place on every adventurer’s bucket list.
