Crescent Meadow

Crescent Meadow is one of the largest meadows in the Sequoia forest. Have a picnic, explore the many trails, scout for wildlife, or just relax in the tranquil forest.

The bright green vegetation contrasts beautifully with the red bark of giant sequoias, especially in the early morning sun. This is an ideal place for photography and has inspired many artists over the years. The trail wraps around the meadow, offering opportunities to explore the giant sequoias up-close, see wildflowers in bloom, and potentially spot wildlife grazing in the meadow. Along the way, keep your ears open for the numerous species of birds inhabit the area.

If you want to continue hiking, Crescent Meadow connects to a network of trails that can take you farther into the grove or out to various viewpoints. From the trail that begins at the Crescent Meadow parking area, turn right to walk around the southern portion of the meadow, following signs to Tharp’s Log. The trail leads beyond Crescent Meadow to Log Meadow where you can explore Tharp’s Log, a cabin built onto a hollowed-out sequoia in 1858. Head back toward Crescent Meadow and stop by the Chimney Tree, which was hollowed out by fire.

This trail is about 1.8 miles round trip.

Safety

• Bears are common to see in meadows, especially in the spring and early summer. Always keep a safe distance and never approach wildlife. Learn what to do if you encounter a bear in the parks.

Location

• The Crescent Meadow trailhead is located at the end of the Moro Rock / Crescent Meadow Road by the Giant Forest Museum. In summer, free shuttles run from Giant Forest Museum to the Crescent Meadow parking area. On weekdays, the road remains open, but the small parking area may be full. On weekends, the road closes to private vehicles and shuttles are the only way to reach Moro Rock and Crescent Meadow.
• In winter, Moro Rock / Crescent Meadow Road closes with snow and is only accessible by hiking, skiing, or snowshoeing. 

Parking

• Park in the Crescent Meadow parking area near the trailhead.

Details

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

No

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Reservations

No

Season

Spring, Summer, Fall

This road generally opens for the season by the Wednesday before Memorial Day in late May and closes when it becomes impassable due to snow.

Vehicle traffic to Crescent Meadow not permitted in on weekends or on holidays-access to this area is via shuttle only.

 

Accessibility Information

A limited number of accessible but steep parking spaces are available at the trailhead near the restrooms. This small parking area often fills up.

In the summer, free shuttles run from Giant Forest Museum to the Crescent Meadow 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.

The trail is partially paved and may be accessible, depending on abilities.

• 

  Giant Forest and Lodgepole

  Learn about the features and points of interest in the Giant Forest and Lodgepole areas.

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  Sequoia National Park

  Learn more about what features are within Sequoia National Park.

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  Places to Go

  Learn more about the different places to go in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.