The Giant Sequoia National Monument was established in April, 2000 by President Clinton and is located in the Sequoia National Forest in California’s central and southern Sierra Nevada Mountains. It encompasses 328,315 acres and protects nearly half of the giant sequoia groves in the world. 13 groves are located within the Hume Lake Ranger District, and 20 groves are in the Western Divide Ranger District. Recreational opportunities include hiking, over 50 campgrounds, horseback riding, pack stations, biking, fishing, and more. There is an abundance of lush plants and wildlife present. There is no Giant Sequoia National Monument visitor center, but district offices can provide additional information. No entry fee ito the monument, but there is a $12.00 parking fees per vehicle at few locations, cash only. 

Sequoia National Monument - North

Sequoia National Monument - South

The Trail of 100 Giants is a popular destination hosting visitors from around the world. Open seasonally, usually late May through November 30th, the Trail of 100 Giants is within the Giant Sequoia National Monument and is located within the Long Meadow Grove of Giant Sequoia Trees at an elevation of 6,400 feet. The paved, mostly flat 1.4-mile loop travels by two dozen or so Giant Sequoias and has benches available for soaking in the serenity of the setting, welcoming  all ages of visitors and is suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. The site provides a peaceful, shady opportunity to capture the scale and beauty of the Sequoia National Forest and the Giant Sequoia Trees outside of the Sequoia National Park. There is no entry fee into the forest, but there is a parking fee of $12.00 Cash .

The Trail of 100 Giants

The Golden Trout Wilderness, established by Congress in 1978, is located in the Sequoia, and Inyo National Forests, and the Sequoia National Park. It encompasses 303,287 acres of lush green meadows, rivers, pristine lakes, massive rock formations, unparalleled views, and abundant plants and wildlife. Elevation ranges from 4,800 to 12,000 feet. Mechanized vehicles are prohibited in the Wilderness. Be sure to check with the forest, and the park for fire restrictions, group size, stock limits, Bear and food storage requirements as their requirements differ. A Golden Trout Wilderness is required for overnight stays.

For entry through the Sequoia National Forest

For entry through the Inyo National Forest

For entry through the Sequoia National Park:

The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, established in 1968, preserves the free-flowing nature of rivers and protects their natural, cultural and recreational values. Within the Sequoia National Forest, the Kern River and the Kings River are designated as Wild and Scenic Rivers. Both rivers contain prehistoric and historic sites, and offer stunning views, rugged terrain, lush meadows, music that only rivers play, along with ample opportunities to view the raw and inhibited power of the water that feeds diverse plants, animals, and human populations. The upper Kern River is home to the Kern River Rainbow Trout as well as other varieties. Both rivers also provide recreational opportunities, some in wilderness areas, that include hiking, horseback riding, and pack trips, camping, whitewater rafting, fishing, and just relaxing “away from it all”. Exploring these waterways and the areas surrounding them is a memorable way to appreciate the Sequoia National Forest's diverse landscapes and rich ecological heritage. For more information, click on the link below.

https://rivers.gov/california

Time spend outdoors and being involved in recreational activities has proven beneficial to all. Recreating responsibly means minimizing your impact on nature and helping to preserve outdoor spaces for the present and future generations to enjoy while staying safe. Things to consider before leaving for visit include planning and preparation for your trip, knowing what the weather, trail conditions, regulations and your abilities are. Be kind and courteous so everyone has a wonderful experience, while leaving no trace that you were there. When visiting, everything you bring in, you take out when you leave. Don’t feed animals or birds, leave plants where they are, and stay on trails. Keep campfires in designated rings and drown out completely until it is cold to the touch every time you leave camp. Take action to support and improve outdoor spaces and treat lightly on the land to minimize human impact.

Recreate Responsibly

Leave No Trace

Tread Lightly

Sequoia National Forest has a variety of volunteer opportunities, and we are always looking for those exceptional people who roll out of bed on weekends, vacations, and holidays to generously give their time and talents to contribute to caring for the land and helping their fellow humanity. A Volunteer Agreement with the Sequoia National Forest is the place to start, and that can be obtained by contacting your local ranger district office. Volunteers with agreements who accrue 250 volunteer hours on pre- approved projects are eligible for an America the Beautiful Volunteer Pass good for one year. It covers entrance or standard amenity day-use fees. This opportunity repeats itself with each additional 250-hour accrual. If you are one of those wonderfully giving people, we’d love to hear from you! For volunteer opportunities, click on the link to your closest ranger district listed below. 

Western Divide Ranger District  -  Email inquiries to: SM.FS.SequoiaNF@usda.gov 

Kern River Ranger District

Hume Lake Ranger District