Tharp's Log

Tharp's Log is a cabin built by Hale Tharp out of a downed, giant sequoia log.

NPS Photo

Quick Facts

Location:

Log Meadow Trail

Designation:

Historic Building

Amenities

2 listed

Audio Description, Benches/Seating

Back in 1861, Hale Tharp built this cabin in a tree, making him the first non-Native American to live in the Giant Forest. He grazed cattle in these meadows in summer and near Horse Creek, in the foothills, in the winter. John Muir stopped here in 1875, the same year he named this grove "The Giant Forest." Muir and his mule, Brownie, found Tharp quite hospitable.

What would it be like to live here, watching the forest change throughout the season? What might you learn? Could you do it without damaging the surroundings, or yourself?