About
Length (round trip)2.8 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyModerate
Elevation gain400 ft up
Typical time3 hr 30 min
TrailheadLodgepole Visitor Center
SurfaceForest trail beside the river
Best seasonThe Lodgepole-Sherman Tree Trail and the General Sherman Tree are accessible year-round. However, the Sequoia Shuttles operate only during the summer.
DogsNot allowed
AccessibilityParking is located at the Lodgepole Campground overflow parking lot. This parking area is paved, and has accessible parking spaces near the restrooms. The trail is unpaved dirt, and contains uneven and rocky terrain.
What you'll see 🌊 River or creek🌲 Old growth

Explore the Giant Forest on your way to the world's largest tree! Start from the trailhead in the Lodgepole Campground. To get here, take the Green Route shuttle from the Giant Forest Museum or the Purple Route 3 shuttle from Wuksachi or Dorst Campground, or park at the large overflow lot in Lodgepole Campground, just beyond the entrance kiosk. If you're staying at the campground, simply leave your car at your site and walk to the trailhead. The trail continues 2.8 miles (4.5 km) downhill as it enters the Giant Forest. At first, you'll travel through a serene white fir forest before entering a grove of towering sequoias. The Lodgepole to Sherman Tree Trail joins the main Sherman Tree Trail about halfway down. At 275 feet (83 m) tall, and over 36 feet (11 m) in diameter at the base, this is one tree you can't miss. From here, take the Green Route 1 shuttle back to Lodgepole. Or, if you'd like to continue exploring the sequoia grove, continue on the Congress Trail, a two-mile paved loop.

Tips
The sensible way to reach General Sherman in high season when the lots are full. Downhill on the way there.
Location

Lodgepole Visitor Center

Other Hikers
No one has logged this trail yet.
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