Thing to Do

Sunset Rock Winter Trail

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

A woman stands on a granite dome watching the sunset.
Snow or no, Sunset Rock is a great place to see the sunset in winter.

This easy trail leads through a mixed-conifer forest of red firs, Jeffrey pines, sugar pines, and incense cedars to a large granite dome. Start at the Giant Forest Museum and cross the street to start the trail. Once there, take a seat on the dome and enjoy the sweeping views of a deep canyon that was carved by the Kaweah River. If you're there for sunset, sit back and enjoy the colorful show! When finished, return on the same trail back to the Giant Forest Museum.

Trail Information
  • Trailhead: Giant Forest MuseumDistance: 2 miles (3.2 km) round trip
  • Difficulty: Easy / Medium
  • Elevation Gain/Loss: 81 ft / 177 ft
  • Approximate Round Trip: 2 – 3 hours
For a complete map of winter trails, check out our Park Newspaper. For more detailed trail information, please visit our Maps page.
Details
The duration will vary depending on fitness level, snow conditions, and length of time spent at trail features.
This trail is designated as a cross-country ski trail, but can also be used for snowshoeing. Due to the snowy and icy conditions on the trail, hiking without traction devices is not recommended. 
Pets Allowed
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Trailhead begins at the Giant Forest Museum general parking lot.
Reservations
No
Accessibility Information

There is no parking at the trailhead, but paved paths from various parking areas lead to it. Some paths contain rock steps. General parking is available across the street from the Giant Forest Museum, and is the closest to the trailhead. Accessible parking is available next to the Giant Forest Museum and at the Big Trees Trailhead. Accessible restrooms are available at the Giant Forest Museum.

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

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A yellow triangle with the letter S in the middle of it.
Follow the route marker above to safely stay on the Sunset Rock winter trail.

Route Marker Information

Trails that are buried under snow are very difficult to follow, so it is best to stick to trails marked for winter travel. Ski trails - open to skiing, snowshoe, and hiking - are marked by different symbols nailed to trees along their routes.

The route marker for the Sunset Rock winter trail is a yellow triangle with the letter 'S' within it.

Caution

Please do not snowshoe or walk directly on ski tracks. The tread of snowshoes (or boots) can create divots and ruin carefully laid ski tracks, creating hazards for skiers. Skiers/snowshoers going uphill yield to those going downhill. Fill in depressions in the snow after falling to reduce hazards to others. Visit our Skiing and Snowshoeing page for safety tips, guidance, and snowshoe ranger program information.


More on Winter Trails in the Parks

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Last updated: December 20, 2024