Congress Trail and Tharp’s Log Loop

Arguably the best way to experience the Giant Forest Grove is via the Congress Trail and Tharp’s Log Loop. Visit the world’s largest sequoia, the oldest known sequoia, and the rustic cabin found within a sequoia. Though sequoias are undoubtedly the main attraction, you will also be granted wonderful views of lush meadows and meandering streams. Note entrance to the park costs $35USD per vehicle or $20USD per person for pedestrians or cyclists.

Embark on your adventure along the Congress and Tharp’s Log Loop from the Sherman Tree Trailhead. Setting out from here, follow this route south, merging onto the Congress Trail. Follow this path to the General Lee Tree and McKinley Tree, then take the middlemost route south, down to the Opd Cattle Cabin and Back Arch Tree. At the following intersection, continue south past the Three Amigos and onto the Tharp’s Log Trail. This route will pass the Chimney Tree before reaching the rustic cabin in the hollowed-out sequoia.

Wander this route along Long Meadow to Crescent Meadow. Here, turn right onto the Crescent Meadow Loop Trail and back to the Chimney Tree. From here, retrace your steps to the Three Amigos, then turn right onto the Circle Meadow Loop and up to The Senate. Follow the leftmost branch of the Congress Trail to the General Sherman Tree. To get back to the trailhead, simply follow the Sherman Tree Trail back to the carpark.