The Trail
The trailhead to General Sherman and Congress Grove begins at Lodgepole Campground in Sequoia National Park.
What to Expect
The Congress Grove Trail is known for being the home of the General Sherman Tree, the “Nation’s Christmas Tree.” This hike is just 3 miles roundtrip, and rated as easy.
The Senate
Amongst this grove are several groupings of redwoods, all along the 3 miles path, from “The Senate,” to “The President,” and many more named sequoias. Some of the trees seem to grow in circles, in what are referred to as fairy rings. There is a fallen sequoia tree tunnel, large massive granite boulders, along with a peaceful stream, with a small waterfall along the mid-point of the trail.
General Sherman
The General Sherman Tree is one of the largest living organisms on Earth, along with being the world’s largest tree, by volume. It towers above at 275 feet (83 m) tall, and is over 36 feet (11 m) in diameter at the base. Sixty feet above the base in the canopy, the General Sherman Tree is still a whopping 17.5 feet (5.3 m) in diameter. The Giant Forest Museum is a great resource of information on the history of Sequoia National Park, and its giant trees if you wish to know more.
Crowd Factor
In summer this popular trail can get very crowded with people from far and wide. According to nps.gov, about 1.2 million people visit this park each year. So if you’re looking to escape the crowds you may want to choose a less popular trail. The Lakes Trail is another option close by. There are several trails around Crescent Meadow, such as the trail to Tharp’s Log, once a home inside a log for an early resident of the area, and trailblazer.
Terrain
Your hike begins through a shaded canopy of sequoia trees, some of the oldest trees on earth. The terrain is paved, with a steady incline, right from the start. You head downhill towards an expansive grove, through a variety of vegetation,in a forest of sequoias and conifers. You will cross a variety of small bridges along the way, and encounter a small waterfall or two.
Skill Level
The trail is less than 3 miles roundtrip, and it is suitable for all skill levels of hikers. There is only one steep section, from the General Sherman parking area, down into the gorge. Another option is to hike in from the shuttle stop and restroom, closer to General Sherman, to avoid this steep part.
Scenery
The main draw is of course the sequoia’s on this trail. They come in several heights, widths, and girths. They have quaint names corresponding with the individual tree or the grouping itself. There is a small creek running through the gorge, and even a small waterfall. One of the highlights is of course General Sherman, but also the trees you can actually stand in, for that photo op. There is even a fallen giant that has a tunnel through it along the trail.
Rating
This hike is rated as easy, with a total elevation gain of 462 feet. It is an advanced beginner hike due to some steep sections.
Seasons
The best time to visit Sequoia Park is during the summer months from June to September. Springtime happens in June and July here, as the wildflowers bloom later at high altitude. and the hillsides become green with new growth. In fall, the air turns crisp, and snow will fall. Afterward, the park is only accessible with 4WD vehicles.
What’s Nearby
If you love Sequoia trees, you have come to the right place. The Sunset and Dead Giant Loop, along with Redwood Grove are also located nearby. The Lakes Trail takes you high up to an old fire lookout, The Watchtower, and on to Heather Lake and Pear Lake. The Tokopah Falls Trail takes you to a scenic towering waterfall through a dynamic gorge, flanked in towering granite spires. Moro Rock Trail is a popular, short, yet steep hike with some of the best views in all of the park. The famous High Sierra Trail also begins nearby at Crescent Meadow.
Wildlife
Sequoia Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bear, deer, coyotes, bobcats, marmots, chipmunks, and a wide variety of birds. Keep your eyes peeled for signs of wildlife as you hike. Your not as likely to see wildlife on the highly trafficked trails, such as Congress Gove, but it is not impossible.
Gear
You will need gear you typically take on a day hike. That includes water, snacks, a backpack, sturdy shoes, proper attire, shade, and possibly bug repellant. After a rain, and in early spring, from June until July, this trail could get buggy, since it is along a creek.
Hazards
The beautiful and swift flowing Kaweah River has claimed lives. Be cautious around this river especially when the flow rate is high, to avoid drowning. Stay on alert to the sound of falling rocks, and steer clear of rockfalls. Also, be advised some sections of the park have no cell service.
Overall
As always, getting outside, and having a chance to connect with nature, are more of the reasons I love hiking in places such as Congress Grove in Sequoia National Park.
Leave No Trace
Just be sure to come prepared and follow Leave No Trace principles to keep the wilderness pristine for future hikers.
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I hope you enjoyed reading this, and it is helpful in knowing what to expect, should you decide to visit here.
About me
I’m Serafina! I’m a writer and California girl who loves to go exploring. Hope you will get outside today, breathe some fresh air, and be happy!
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