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Yosemite National Park is home to some of the largest and oldest living trees on Earth—massive, ancient Giant Sequoias. These awe-inspiring trees grow in three distinct groves within the park: the Mariposa Grove, Tuolumne Grove, and Merced Grove.
Located just inside Yosemite’s South Entrance off Highway 41, the Mariposa Grove is the largest and most accessible of the three groves, especially from spring through fall. Home to over 500 mature Giant Sequoias, this iconic grove reopened in 2018 following a landmark restoration effort by Yosemite National Park and the Yosemite Conservancy. Learn more about the restoration here.
In winter, when the access road is blanketed in snow, adventurous visitors can still reach the lower grove by hiking, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing the two-mile route—an unforgettable winter journey through a snow-draped forest.
For a quieter experience, head to the Tuolumne or Merced Grove, both located near Crane Flat along Big Oak Flat Road. These smaller groves require a moderate hike (1–1.5 miles) to reach the first Sequoias. Keep in mind, the trail begins with a downhill slope—you’ll hike uphill on the return—but the peaceful atmosphere and majestic trees are well worth the effort.
