The General Sherman Tree, in the Giant Forest of Sequoia National Park, California, is the largest known living single-stem tree on Earth by volume — roughly 275 ft (83 m) tall and estimated at about 2,200 years old. Visitors come less for its height than for its sheer bulk and improbable age. As of summer 2026 the tree and its trails remain fully open, but nearby parking lots routinely fill by mid-morning. Plan on an early arrival or the free park shuttle, and expect to slow down — this is a place best taken in without rushing.
The General Sherman Tree itself — about 275 ft (83 m) tall, roughly 36 ft (11 m) in base diameter, estimated at 2,200 years old
Congress Trail loop — links neighboring giants such as the President Tree and the Senate and House Groups
Giant Forest Museum — exhibits on giant sequoia biology and the role fire plays in the grove's ecology
The paved, wheelchair- and stroller-accessible path (~500 ft) from the accessible parking area, with benches along the way
Seasonal ranger-led 'General Sherman Talk' program — check the park calendar for current dates and times
Good to know
SafetyThe Giant Forest area sits around 6,800–7,000 ft (roughly 2,100 m). Visitors arriving from sea level can feel short of breath or lightheaded faster than expected — pace yourself, especially with kids, older adults, or anyone with heart or lung conditions, and drink plenty of water.
SafetyBlack bears live throughout the park (sightings right at the crowded General Sherman/Congress Trail area are uncommon, but they do occur elsewhere). Store all food and scented items in the bear-proof boxes provided; never approach or feed a bear.
SeasonThe Generals Highway can close entirely for days at a time, usually sometime between January and March, due to snow, and tire chains or 4WD may be required at other times of year if it snows. Check current road conditions at nps.gov/seki before a winter or shoulder-season visit.
RulesEntrance fee payment at the gate is cashless only (card or contactless); no cash is accepted on site. If you plan multiple visits, an annual park pass or an America the Beautiful pass can be worth buying in advance.
RulesRVs and trailers longer than 22 ft (6.7 m) are prohibited on the Generals Highway between Hospital Rock and Giant Forest. Larger vehicles should approach via Highway 180 from Fresno instead.
MannersStay on the paved trail and boardwalks around the General Sherman Tree and Congress Trail — giant sequoia roots are shallow and spread wide, and soil compaction from foot traffic can damage them. Drones are prohibited throughout the national park.
CautionBe wary of unofficial vendors or self-appointed 'guides' outside the park entrances offering to handle parking or entrance fees for a cash tip. Pay entrance fees and passes only at official NPS entrance stations or through recreation.gov.
Practical info
The nearest airports are Visalia (VIS) and Fresno (FAT); public transit is minimal, so a rental car is effectively required, entering via Highway 198 or 180. Entrance fees are charged per vehicle for a 7-day pass — confirm the current fee amount and shuttle schedule at nps.gov/seki before you go, as both are subject to change.
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