Last updated: August 30, 2025
Thing to Do
Climb Moro Rock
As you enter Sequoia National Park from Visalia, Moro Rock looms overhead, thousands of feet above the Generals Highway. This massive granite dome juts out from a ridgeline at the edge of the Giant Forest, offering great views.
To get the full experience, take the 350-step staircase all the way to the top. As you ascend 300 feet over 0.25 miles, the Great Western Divide of the Sierra Nevada peaks become visible. As you climb, panoramic views open up from the foothills and San Joaquin Valley to the west, to deep into wilderness to the east. If you dare, look over the railing to see the Kaweah River and the Generals Highway, thousands of feet below you. The spectacular, 360-degree view is well worth the strenuous staircase climb to the top.
Handrails along the way make the climb relatively safe, though you should keep a close eye on small children because of steep drop-offs along the entire route.
Safety
- Elevation changes will be more difficult at higher altitude. Take breaks and drink plenty of water. There is little to no shade at the top of Moro Rock, wear proper sun protection. Areas of the climb to the top have steep drop-offs and slippery slopes. Use guardrails and do not jump over barriers.
Location
- Moro Rock is located on the Moro Rock / Crescent Meadow Road, 1 mile (1.6 km) from its entrance at the Giant Forest Museum.
- In summer, free shuttles run from Giant Forest Museum to the Moro Rock parking area. On weekends, the road closes to private vehicles and shuttles are the only way to reach Moro Rock and Crescent Meadow. On weekdays, the road remains open, but the small parking area may be full.
- In winter, Moro Rock / Crescent Meadow Road closes with snow. Though ski trails lead to the parking area, the stairway is closed due to the danger of the icy or snowy steps.
Parking
- A parking lot with limited spots is available at the base of Moro Rock. Please be aware that parking is very tight and limited. Arrive early or return at a later time if the parking lot is full. Please do not stop in the highway to get pictures.
Details
Duration
30-120 Minutes
Take your time as you climb. At this elevation, the steep climb can be difficult.
Activity
Hiking
Climb over 350 steps to the top of a granite dome along a concrete and stone stairway. At the top, views extend from the foothills to deep into park wilderness. On a clear day, you may even be able to see California's Coast Range.
Age(s)
Moro Rock is appropriate for all ages. There are steep dropoffs; keep children close to you and stay inside railings.
Pets Allowed
No
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Reservations
No
Season
Spring, Summer, Fall
The stairway is closed when it is snowy or icy.
Accessibility Information
The Moro Rock trail consists of a 350-step staircase to ascend to the top.
Moro Rock / Crescent Meadow Road is open to vehicles with accessible parking placards, even when closed to other private vehicles in summer. In the summer, you can also take wheelchair-accessible park shuttles to sites along this road.
Parking: Accessible parking spaces are located at Moro Rock parking lot and the Crescent Meadow parking lot.
Moro Rock / Crescent Meadow Road is open to vehicles with accessible parking placards, even when closed to other private vehicles in summer. In the summer, you can also take wheelchair-accessible park shuttles to sites along this road.
Parking: Accessible parking spaces are located at Moro Rock parking lot and the Crescent Meadow parking lot.
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Giant Forest and LodgepoleLearn about the features and points of interest in the Giant Forest and Lodgepole areas.
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Sequoia National ParkLearn more about what features are within Sequoia National Park.
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Places to GoLearn more about the different places to go in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.