Grizzly Giant — Attraction in Oakhurst

The Grizzly Giant, nestled in the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias in Yosemite National Park, is not just a tree — it’s a testament to time, strength, and the silent grandeur of nature. Estimated to be over 1,800 years old, this awe-inspiring sequoia is among the oldest and largest living trees on Earth.

Size & Presence: Standing about 209 feet tall and measuring over 25 feet in diameter at the base, the Grizzly Giant commands attention the moment it comes into view. Its massive, twisted limbs stretch out like gnarled arms of a wise elder, and its fire-scarred bark tells stories of survival through centuries of wildfires, storms, and changes in climate.

The Trail Experience: Reaching the Grizzly Giant requires a moderate hike — roughly 2 miles round trip from the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza. The trail is well-maintained and offers scenic views, interpretive signs, and plenty of spots to pause and take in the serenity of the forest. The walk itself is part of the experience — quiet, shaded, and soul-soothing.

Spiritual Impact: There’s something humbling and almost spiritual about standing beneath this ancient tree. It dwarfs everything around it — including your thoughts. Visitors often find themselves whispering instinctively, as if in the presence of a great being. It’s not just sightseeing; it’s a moment of reflection.

Travel Tips: • Best visited early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. • Carry water and wear good walking shoes. • Accessible via shuttle during peak seasons from the welcome plaza. • Pair the visit with a walk to the California Tunnel Tree,...

The Grizzly Giant is the largest and oldest sequoia tree in the Mariposa Grove of Yosemite National Park. You'll find it along the Grizzly Giant and Mariposa Grove Trails which pass by this landmark sequoia.

As you approach the Grizzly Giant, you'll notice a huge fire scar but otherwise the giant sequoia is a healthy sequoia. It dwarfs the visitors who stand in front posing for photographs. The Grizzly Giant was last measured at 209 feet (63.7 metres) in height and 29 feet (9 metres) in diameter.

Interesting Tidbit: You find information panel on the backside of the Grizzly Giant describing a camping trip that occurred here in 1903. The party included John Muir and President Roosevelt. It is believed that it was here that Muir convinced Roosevelt of the need to extend the protected areas of Yosemite to include the Mariposa Grove.

If you want to take the Grizzly Giant Trail to see the Grizzly Giant sequoia tree, it is a relatively easy 2 mile loop trail that takes no more than 90 minutes to finish even with making regular stops to take pictures of the sequoias. The trail starts and finishes back at the Mariposa Grove...

The trees at Mariposa Grove are absolutely incredible — especially the Grizzly Giant. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a tree that massive. What’s really striking about the sequoias is that it’s not just one or two — you’re surrounded by dozens of them, towering on all sides. It’s honestly mind-blowing what nature can create.

Just a heads-up: you’re in bear territory. I actually saw fresh bear tracks on one of the trails leading uphill — I can’t remember the name, but it’s something to be aware of. On the way down, we also spotted a family of deer — probably a doe with two fawns. It was a magical moment.

Mariposa Grove is definitely worth the trip, even if it’s a bit of a drive from Yosemite Valley. One idea: spend your first day in Yosemite, maybe go for a swim, and once you’re ready for a change of scenery, hop in the car. The drive’s a bit long, but totally manageable. There’s also a free shuttle that runs every 15 minutes and takes you right to the start of the trail —...