The main lure here is the biggest, most impressive cluster of giant sequoias in Yosemite. The star of the show – and what everyone comes to see – is the Grizzly Giant , a behemoth that sprang to life some 1800 years ago. You can’t miss it – it’s a half-mile walk along a well-worn path starting near the parking lot. Beyond here, crowds thin out a bit, although for more solitude, arrive early in the morning or after 6pm.
Also nearby is the walk-through California Tunnel Tree, which continues to survive despite having its heart hacked out in 1895.
In the upper grove you’ll find the Fallen Wawona Tunnel Tree , the famous drive-through tree that toppled over in 1969. For scenic views, take a 1-mile (round-trip) amble from the fallen tree to Wawona Point.
Also in the upper grove, the Mariposa Grove Museum has displays about sequoia ecology. The full hike from the parking lot to the upper grove is about 2.5 miles.
Parking can be very limited, so come early or late, or take the free shuttle bus from the Wawona Store or the South Entrance. The grove can also be explored on a one-hour guided tour aboard a noisy open-air tram.
