Sequoia National Park’s Giant Forest Reopens: What You Need to Know
The towering sequoias in Giant Forest at Sequoia National Park have reopened to the public on select days until the end of the year as part of the park’s phased reopening following recent wildfires.
General Sherman: A Must-See
Sequoia National Park’s Giant Forest is home to the largest trees in the world, including General Sherman. More than 2,500 years old, General Sherman towers at 275 feet (83m) tall, boasting the title of the world’s largest living tree by volume.
In mid-September, a section of the park was closed due to wildfires ignited by a lightning storm that recorded over 200 nearby strikes. The resulting fire burned more than 88,000 acres, primarily within Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. As the wildfire posed a threat to Giant Forest, dedicated firefighters rapidly worked to protect the giant sequoias, wrapping General Sherman and other significant trees in fire-resistant blankets.
Although the wildfires continue to smolder, they have been contained sufficiently for the foothills portion of Sequoia National Park to reopen to the public as of November 11.
“We are committed to restoring access to the Giant Forest as quickly as we can, and we appreciate everyone’s patience during this process,” said Clay Jordan, Superintendent of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.
Access to Giant Forest
Limited access to Giant Forest is available on select days in December and January from 8 am to sunset. The specific days include:
- Saturday, December 11
- Sunday, December 12 (Fee-free day at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks)
- Friday, December 17
- Saturday, December 18
- Sunday, December 19
- Monday, December 20
- Friday, December 24 – Monday, January 3, 2022
The Sequoia Shuttle will operate from December 24 through January 2, 2022. After the holidays, the park will evaluate whether it needs to continue limiting access to Giant Forest.
Preparing for Your Visit
Visitors are encouraged to note that while the Giant Forest Museum will be open, there will be no food or water available within Giant Forest. Therefore, it is essential to bring along snacks and water. Always remember to pack out anything you take in.
The park anticipates winter weather for the reopening weekend. Consequently, all vehicles must carry tire chains in designated areas, regardless of their drive type.
In case of severe weather, rock or debris falls, or other hazards, the park could close Generals Highway between the Sequoia entrance and Giant Forest. It is advisable to check the park’s current conditions before your visit.
