Last updated: August 30, 2025
Thing to Do
Big Stump
The first resting spot after the park entrance station on Highway 180, this picnic area makes this a perfect stop to get your bearings after the drive from the San Joaquin Valley. Covered picnic tables offer shelter and parking is usually abundant. This area becomes a snowplay spot in winter. Here, enjoy making snow sculptures or go on a snowshoe trek.
From here, you will find the trailhead for the Big Stump Trail, which leads to the Mark Twain Stump via a 2-mile (3.2-km) hike. A small staircase on the stump lets people climb on top of it. Other large stumps are found in this area of historic giant sequoia logging.
The Mark Twain Tree was a Giant Sequoia that reached 16 feet (4.8 meters) in diameter. Even after the national park was established, travel to the sequoia groves was difficult, and many people simply didn't believe trees could grow so large. In 1891, the Army cut down this sequoia so it could be displayed to astonished crowds in New York and London.
This stump is the remains of the Mark Twain tree that was felled in 1891 for the American Museum of Natural History.
From here, you will find the trailhead for the Big Stump Trail, which leads to the Mark Twain Stump via a 2-mile (3.2-km) hike. A small staircase on the stump lets people climb on top of it. Other large stumps are found in this area of historic giant sequoia logging.
The Mark Twain Tree was a Giant Sequoia that reached 16 feet (4.8 meters) in diameter. Even after the national park was established, travel to the sequoia groves was difficult, and many people simply didn't believe trees could grow so large. In 1891, the Army cut down this sequoia so it could be displayed to astonished crowds in New York and London.
This stump is the remains of the Mark Twain tree that was felled in 1891 for the American Museum of Natural History.
Safety
- Elevation changes will be more difficult at higher altitude. Take breaks and drink plenty of water. Allow plenty of time to complete the hike before your tour begins.
Location
- This picnic area is 0.7 miles from the Big Stump Entrance Station along Highway 180 from Fresno. The trailhead for Big Stump begins at the picnic area.
Parking
- There are multiple parking spots in this picnic area, including accessible and RV parking spots.
Details
Activity
Hiking
Pets Allowed
No
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Reservations
No
Accessibility Information
Big Stump Picnic Area includes extended picnic tables for travelers using wheelchairs, as well as raised barbecues. Paved or hard-surface paths lead from the picnic area to nearby restrooms. Overhead shelters provide some protection from weather.
Places to Go
Learn more about the different places to go in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.