What better way to enjoy our national parks than to hike?! But with so many trails, where do we even start? I’m rounding up the best hiking in Sequoia National Park for you, so you don’t have to! I’ve included hikes of all levels and lengths for everyone to enjoy.
Sequoia National Park is one of those national parks that I feel like you can see without being a “hiker.” By that I mean, there are lots of paved trails to see the sequoia groves and areas to view the Sierras without a 6 hour hike. However, I always think the best way to enjoy national parks and the surrounding areas is by a good hike.
I LOVED our hikes in Sequoia National Park and the forest area. We were able to hike 2 of the 3 days here and I think both are great for experiencing the area. If you’re headed to Sequoia National Park and looking to get off the paved trail, look no further. I’m rounding up the best hiking to do around Sequoia National Park! As always, there are dog friendly options because…. Obviously I’m taking Benny anywhere I can!
Also see: The BEST way to spend 3 days in Sequoia National Park
*Disclaimer: I definitely have not hiked all of these trails. I will clearly denote which trails we have hiked and which I’ve merely heard great things about. We usually are on short time when we take trips to hike because we both have full time jobs, so I make sure to do extensive research before heading out. I love to pull from a variety of travel blogs and often use AllTrails to round up the hikes we want to do. We never make it to all of them, but I save them so we can go back in the future. It also helps so I can share with you! I did all the work, and hopefully this list can save you some time and research.
the best hikes in Sequoia National Park
Weaver Lake: Located within the Sequoia National Forest, Weaver Lake was SO much fun because we could bring our pup with us! Typically in national parks, dogs aren’t allowed unless there is a paved trail and even then that’s not allowed sometimes. In the national forests, however, dogs are welcome (but keep them leashed and safe!). Weaver Lake Trail is a 6.5 miles out and back trail that I would consider moderate. It had some steep areas, but overall was easily navigable. It comes out to—you guessed it—Weaver Lake, which is a beautiful and cold lake on top of the mountains. We absolutely loved taking a short dip in the lake and enjoying a snack with the scenery!
Moro Rock Trail: Mentioned in my must-dos of Sequoia National Park post, this trail is pretty popular for a reason. It’s about a half mile long, but rated as moderate because you’re going up lots of stairs. The view is one of the best views in the park! Dogs are not allowed. Unfortunately, we couldn’t do this one as it was closed for a medical emergency.
Giant Forest Loop Trail: Giant Forest Loop Trail is a great one to hit if you only want to do one big hike—you’ll see some of the biggest trees in the park and some beautiful meadows. At 7 miles long, this would be a great trail to do if you have limited amount of time to spend in the park. You will get a good feel of what the park has to offer hiking Giant Forest Loops with lots of sequoia. Depending on the time of year you go, you’ll be surrounded by gorgeous plants and greenery! Keep your eyes out for wildlife, too.
Skyline Loop and Salt Creek Falls: Outside of the park, near Three Rivers this 6.4 mile out and back trail is another great dog friendly option. True to its name of “Salt Creek Falls”, the trail also features a waterfall. A special part of this trail is the wild horses. I have not done this hike personally, but almost every review on AllTrails mentions the horses!
What to read next: Eat and Hike Your Way Through Sedona, Arizona
Eagle View Trail: A shorter hike near three rivers, at 1.5 miles out and back. Try this trail in the spring and see plenty of wildflowers! This trail seems to be a bit more crowded, which is understandable with just moderate terrain and a shorter distance. However, the views seem worth it!
Mitchell Peak Trail: This 6.7 mile out and back trail is located in the Jennie Lakes Wilderness (near the Sequoia National Forest area). It’s another dog friendly hike but is steep and requires some climbing over boulders. There’s a heavy elevation gain with this one, but incredible views! I haven’t done this one, but I will definitely have to hit it on our next trip.
Mount Whitney: I may never do this hike in my lifetime, but I had to add it for the extreme hikers out there. Mount Whitney Trail is 20.9 miles out and back located within Sequoia National Park. On this trail, you’ll gain almost 7,000 feet of elevation and see waterfalls, cliffs, and navigate switchbacks. Plenty of people try to tackle this trail in one day, but I’d recommend breaking it into two. It is a huge feat for many hikers and I’ve heard it’s absolutely epic, so I had to add it here!
What do you think is the best hiking around Sequoia National Park?
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