Calaveras North Grove Trail

The Calaveras North Grove Trail boasts an enchanting experience, leading eager adventurers along a trail bounded by enormous ancient sequoias and mixed conifers. Compared to other sequoia groves in California, the Calaveras Big Trees State Park is amongst the most secluded and most impressive.

Located high in the Sierra, the weather conditions are diverse and subject to change on a dime, so we encourage visitors to dress in layers. Note the State Park charges an entrance fee in the high season, which typically costs about $10USD. However, in the winter months, the paths within the grove remain open and can be enjoyed by cross-country skis or snowshoes– free of charge.

No matter the season you explore the North Grove, we know you will be impressed. Exhibiting the grandeur and natural beauty of the ancient sequoias, hiking the Calaveras North Grove Trail makes for an incredible experience. Not only will you be shaded by looming coniferous trees, but this trail also offers the Big Trees Creek, the Discovery Tree Stump, wildflowers, and meadows. Lined with numerous interpretive signs depicting the area’s ecology and history, this family-friendly trek boasts an educational excursion—how fun? Immerse yourself in the best of the Stanislaus National Forest, and marvel at the grandeur of the world’s biggest trees.

Located within the Calaveras Big Trees State Park, the Calaveras North Grove Trail follows the North Grove Trail northeast. Wonderment will crash over you as you hike amongst the towering conifers along the north side of Big Trees Creek. Shortly after you depart from the trailhead, you will encounter the Three Graces, a set of gigantic sequoias. Revel in their enormity, then continue northeast, passing the Pioneer Cabin Tree and the Abraham Lincoln Tree. At this point, the route will begin to curve, leading you to the Father of the Forest and Mother of the Forest Trees.

At this point in your journey, you will be diverted southwest over the Big Trees Creek, along the southern side of the waters. As you wander, be sure to take the time to read the interpretive signs. The mesmerizing vistas will dumbfound you as you meander past the Mother and Son and Old Bachelor. Turn right at the next intersection, and you will again intersect with Big Trees Creek. Now hiking northwest, you will finally reach the piece de resistance—the Discovery Stump. Admire the massiveness of the stump and tap dance atop one of the largest known sequoias. From here, the trailhead is in view. Continue trekking north to your adventure’s end.

Trail Highlights

Discovery Tree

The Discovery Tree was the first discovered Sierra redwood, noted by Augustus T. Dowd in 1852. Unfortunately, the tree was felled in 1853—taking a total of 3 weeks to down., John Muir wrote an essay titled detailing the devastation of the felled tree. Since it’s discovery, the enormous sequoia has attracted thousands of visitors each and every year. Located in the Calaveras Big Trees State Park, in the northern grove, many adventurers visit the park solely to dance upon the immense stump that measures about 24ft in diameter. Who would’ve thought a stump could be a tourist attraction—not us! But we are eager to test out the dance floor.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to hike the Calaveras North Grove Trail?

The Calaveras Big Trees State Park charges an entrance fee which typically costs about $10USD.

Are there bears in the Calaveras Big Trees State Park?

Yes, there have been many black bear sightings in the Calaveras Big Trees State Park.