Crescent Meadow Loop
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park, CA
At the end of Moro Rock/Crescent Meadow Road in Sequoia National Park, you’ll find this gentle trail around lovely Crescent Meadow, home to ancient sequoias such as the Chimney Tree. The trail is a flat alternative to the Moro Rock climb and links with other trails to Tharp’s Log and Squatters Cabin; it’s also technically the beginning of the much longer High Sierra Trail.
The basics
Given the loop trail’s proximity to Sequoia National Parrk’s main entrance and Moro Rock, and its location within the Giant Forest sequoia grove, you can easily fit in the short hike on a casual visit to the national park. It also helps that the trail is short, flat, and easy, and should take no longer than 30 minutes to complete.
Some private tours of Sequoia National Park visit parts of the loop trail for picnics—the official Crescent Meadow picnic area lies near the trailhead at the edge of a verdant meadow, surrounded by giant sequoias.
Things to know before you go
Paved sections of the trail are wheelchair accessible.
Dogs are not allowed on the trail.
There are restrooms and a limited number of accessible parking spaces near the trailhead.
Bring binoculars to spot birds.
Short, flat, and full of trees, this is a kid-friendly trail.
How to get there
The Crescent Meadow parking lot is in Sequoia National Park about 25 miles (40 kilometers) north of Three Rivers and the park’s Ash Mountain entrance. The drive takes longer than expected due to the winding route on Generals Highway, so plan extra time for the trip. During the summer, park shuttles provide free transportation from the Giant Forest Museum to the trailhead.
When to get there
Visit the trail in the spring, summer, or fall. While the summertime brings warm weather and easy shuttle transportation around the park, it’s also the busiest time of year; if you arrive in the spring or early fall, expect temperate weather and fewer crowds. In the winter, Crescent Loop Road closes with snow and is accessible by hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing.
Picnicking at Crescent Meadow
Crescent Meadow is one of the loveliest places to picnic in Sequoia National Park—but it’s also among the most bare-bones. The picnic area rests at the edge of the meadow just north of the High Sierra Trailhead. Bring a picnic blanket, prepared food, water, and seating if you wish, as the area doesn't have extended picnic tables, water, or grills.
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