Big Trees Loop Trail in Yosemite National Park (2026 guide)

The Big Trees Loop Trail in Yosemite National Park is an accessible and easy hike for everyone of all ages and abilities. You will see many giant sequoia trees including a unique tree known as the Fallen Monarch along with interpretive panels about giant sequoias and their ecosystem. 🌳😍

Located in Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, the Big Trees Loop Trail is a fun, beautiful, and educational trail. It’s perfect for families with children, individuals who need to use a wheelchair, or hikers looking for a laid-back hike.

Read my full guide to learn everything you need to know about hiking the Big Trees Loop Trail in Yosemite National Park! 🙌

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Big Trees Loop Trail Stats and Map

The Big Trees Loop Trail is one of the shortest and easiest hikes in Yosemite National Park! It’s a great option if you’re looking to visit Mariposa Grove without having to commit to a long, difficult hike.

There are other trails within Mariposa Grove if you have the time and energy, such as the Grizzly Giant Trail, Guardians Loop Trail, and Mariposa Grove Trail.

If you want to discover more incredible giant sequoias, consider planning a trip to Sequoia National Park! There are so many amazing trails that take you through beautiful sequoia groves, such as the Congress Trail, Big Trees Trail, and Crescent Meadow Loop Trail.

But for now, let’s get discuss the Big Trees Loop Trail in Yosemite! 👇

Big Trees Loop Trail Stats

Big Trees Loop Trail Map

Yosemite National Park Entrance Fee and Reservations

Entrance to Yosemite National Park costs $35 per vehicle for a 3-day pass. However, if you have the America the Beautiful Annual Pass, your entry is free!

For those who love exploring national parks, investing in the Annual Pass is a smart choice. At just $80, for U.S. residents, it grants you access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites across the country!

FEE UPDATES! Beginning January 1, 2026, non-U.S. residents (without an annual pass) will pay a $100 per person in addition to the standard entrance fee. The Annual Pass for non-US residents will cost $250.

Reservations are not required this year. (updated July 8, 2026).

Big Trees Loop Trailhead and Parking

The Big Trees Loop Trail in Yosemite National Park starts at the Mariposa Grove Arrival Area. You will see a big sign that says “Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias” – that is where you begin your hike!

📍 Google Maps Location: Big Trees Loop Trailhead

🅿️ Trailhead Parking: Mariposa Grove has two main parking lots. The parking area near the grove, known as the Arrival Area, is designated for individuals with a disability placard. Everyone else will have to park at the Welcome Plaza and either hike in via the Washburn Trail (2 miles / 3.2 km one way) or take the shuttle to reach the grove.

🗺️ Distance to Trailhead: Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza is about 0.2 miles (0.3 km) from Yosemite’s South Entrance and 33 miles (53 km) from the Yosemite Valley Welcome Center.

🚗 Parking Tips: The parking area at the Welcome Plaza is huge with about 300 parking spots! You shouldn’t have too much trouble finding a parking spot there. But if you’re visiting on a summer weekend or holiday, get there early just to make sure you secure a parking spot.

🚻 Facilities: Restrooms (flush toilets), drinking water, bookstore, and visitor information are located at the Welcome Plaza. And at the Arrival Area, you will find restrooms (flush toilets) and drinking water (seasonal).

🚌 Shuttle Option: There is a free shuttle that takes you from the Welcome Plaza to the Arrival Area (Mariposa Grove) and back. It runs seasonally from April through November (dates vary each depending on winter conditions). The shuttle runs every 15 minutes from 8 AM to about sunset time (check this year’s schedule here).

Best Time to Hike the Big Trees Loop Trail in Mariposa Grove

🌷 Spring (March – May): Spring is a great time to visit Mariposa Grove as the melting snow brings lush greenery and vibrant wildflowers to the forest floor. Various wildflowers begin to bloom in late spring/early summer and look so beautiful by mid-summer.

Snow may linger at higher elevation near Wawona Point, especially early in the season. Since the Big Trees Loop Trail is at lower elevation, there’s a smaller chance of snow along that trail in the spring – but it’s still possible!

The Mariposa Grove Road usually opens sometime in April. Check current conditions and road closures HERE.

Mariposa Grove is open year-round unless otherwise stated, so even if the road is closed you can still access the grove by foot (or snowshoes/skis). Do your research and make sure you are prepared with winter gear if snow/icy conditions are present!

☀️ Summer (June – August): Summer is the most popular time to explore Mariposa Grove. All the trails are open and accessible, allowing visitors to experience the breathtaking sights of giant sequoia trees. Since this grove is located a higher elevation as compared to the valley, the wildflowers are in full bloom by mid-summer.

The warm weather is especially pleasant in the cooler, shaded forest areas. On the downside, this is also peak tourist season, so expect crowded trails, especially along the Big Trees Loop Trail since it’s short and easy. If you’re able, you can escape the crowds by hiking towards the upper grove along the Mariposa Grove Trail.

🍂 Fall (September – November): Fall offers a quieter and cooler time to visit Mariposa Grove, with fewer crowds and crisp, pleasant weather.

The autumn colors create a stunning contrast with the towering green sequoias, making it a picturesque time for photography and hiking. Trails remain accessible in early fall but be prepared with winter gear just in case there’s an early season snowstorm!

☃️ Winter (December – February): Visiting Mariposa Grove in winter is an incredible experience! The grove is transformed into a serene winter wonderland. It’s the perfect time to snowshoe or cross country ski through the grove.

In the winter, the Big Trees Loop Trail becomes a bit more challenging due to snow/ice covering the trail. The Mariposa Grove Road is closed during this time so the only way to reach the grove is to hike/snowshoe/cross country ski along the Washburn Trail which will add 4 miles (6.4 km) to the total hike.

Hiking the Big Trees Loop Trail: Step-by-Step Directions

Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza

This hike, for most people, begins from the parking lot of the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza. You have two choices to reach the start of the Big Trees Loop Trail.

The most popular option is to take the shuttle bus. It’s quicker and convenient. However, if get there early, before the shuttle begins running then you will have to hike along the Washburn Trail.

If you have a disability placard, you can park your car at the Mariposa Grove Arrival Area, right at the start of the Big Trees Loop Trail.

Washburn Trail

If you are not taking the shuttle to reach the start of the Big Trees Loop Trail or you do not have a disability placard, then you will have to hike along the Washburn Trail.

It’s 2 miles (3.2 km) one way with about 500 feet of elevation gain. The Washburn Trail is a really peaceful trail through the forest. It’s especially beautiful in early to mid-summer when the wildflowers are blooming or in winter when the landscape is covered in snow.

In about 45 minutes to an hour you will reach the Mariposa Grove Arrival Area. Here you will find drinking water (seasonal), flush toilets, and a map of the entire grove.

Big Trees Loop Trail

Let’s begin hiking the Big Trees Loop Trail. You will see a big sign that says “Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias” – this where the trail starts.

This section of the hike is the beginning of other trails as well, including the Grizzly Giant Loop Trail and Mariposa Grove Trail. The Big Trees Loop Trail is the easiest and shortest of all the trails in Mariposa Grove!

The hike begins along a smooth, dirt path which then turns into a boardwalk. You will be surrounded by lots of amazing giant sequoias. Don’t forget to stop and read the educational plaques to learn a thing or two about the giant sequoias and their ecosystem!

🤩 If you want to see more incredible giant sequoias, check out the Congress Trail and Big Trees Trail in Sequoia National Park! Speaking of this national park, I have lots of Sequoia travel guides to help you plan a trip.

Fallen Giant Sequoia Trees

In just 0.1 miles (0.2 km) you will reach a fallen giant sequoia tree known as the Fallen Monarch. You can see its incredible root system – it’s amazing how those roots can hold up these giant trees for thousands of years!

There’s another unnamed fallen giant sequoia beside it. The roots look a lot different as compared to the Fallen Monarch. Maybe this second fallen sequoia is younger which is why it has smaller roots? Honestly, I have no idea, but it’s still amazing to see what the roots of giant sequoias look like.

From the two fallen giant sequoias, continue left to stay on the Big Trees Loop Trail.

Finish the Hike

Continue following the Big Trees Loop Trail – it’s a short hike so you’re almost done! I suggest spending your time on the trail and taking in all the stunning sights.

You’ll come across another trail junction. Continue straight to stay on the Big Trees Loop Trail. The trail on the right is the Grizzly Giant Loop Trail – this is another great hike I recommend!

Soon you will reach the Arrival Area again. This is where you began the hike. If the shuttle is running, you can hop on the shuttle to avoid walking another 2 miles (3.2 km) back to your car at the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza.

Congrats, you did it! 🥳

🥾 Explore more of Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, and Mariposa Grove with these hikes!

Tips for Hiking the Big Trees Loop Trail in Yosemite National Park

1. Protect the Giant Sequoias: Some giant sequoias have fences surrounding them to protect them. Do not cross the fence! It’s there to protect them and help keep them alive for many more generations.

2. Start Early: Beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures by starting your hike early in the morning, especially during peak season. Just be aware, that you may have to hike along the Washburn Trail (2 miles / 3.2 km one way) to reach Mariposa Grove since the shuttle usually doesn’t start running until 8 AM. But I think it’s worth it to beat the crowds!

3. Check Shuttle Status: The Mariposa Grove shuttle runs seasonally typically from April to November. If it’s not running, then you’ll have to hike an extra 2 miles (3.2 km) one way to reach the grove from the main parking lot.

4. Be Bear Aware: Black bears are active within Yosemite. Follow these guidelines to avoid any negative interactions with a black bear.

🐻 Note: Bear spray is prohibited in Yosemite National Park!

5. Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles – plan ahead, pack out all trash, avoid disturbing wildlife, be considerate of others, and respect the natural beauty of Yosemite National Park.

What to Bring to Yosemite National Park

🎟️ Entrance Pass – You will need to purchase an entrance pass once you reach the entrance station or you can buy the America the Beautiful Pass ahead of time and use that for the entire year.

👚 Layers of Clothing (top) – Pack a moisture-wicking base layer, a fleece mid-layer, an insulated jacket, and an outer shell to protect you from the elements, such as rain and wind. You may not need all these layers, especially in the summer months, but it’s always best to be over-prepared!

Check out my favorite tops 👇

• Base layer: REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie (warm/mild conditions) and REI Co-op Midweight Long-Sleeve Base Layer (cooler conditions)
• Fleece mid layer: Cotopaxi Teca Fleece Full-Zip Jacket
• Down mid layer: Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket
• Outer shell: In the summer I always pack a light windbreaker, such as the Cotopaxi Teca Crop Windbreaker or the RevolutionRace Unit Light Windbreaker. Make sure to also pack a waterproof rain jacket – I like the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket.

🩳 Hiking Shorts or Pants – Pack a comfortable, durable, and stretchy pair of hiking shorts or pants. Also think about what conditions you might run into, such as warm or cold temperatures, wind and/or rain, bugs, and overgrown trails.

Check out my favorite hiking bottoms 👇

• Cotopaxi Losdos Zip-Off Pants
• RevolutionRace Breezy Ankle Outdoor Pants
• Baleaf Fleece-Lined Jogger Pants
• RevolutionRace Summit Pocket Tights
• Revolution Race Hike & Dive Shorts

🥾 Hiking Footwear – Bring a good pair of hiking boots or shoes with good traction. If I’m not expecting to hike in too much mud or snow, my go-to hiking shoes are the Altra Lone Peak trail runners. They have a wide-toe box, 0 mm heel-to-toe drop, and MaxTrac rubber outsole. Plus, they’re lightweight and so comfy!

🧦 Socks – Moisture-wicking, quick-drying socks are the way to go. My favorite pair of hiking socks are Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks. Always pack an extra pair!

🎒 Day Pack – What you plan to do (sightseeing, hiking, etc.), determines what size pack you’ll need. Here is what I typically bring based on what I’m doing that day 👇

• Short walks and sightseeing: Cotopaxi Kapai 1.5L Del Dia Hip Pack
• Short, easy to moderate day hikes: REI Co-op Flash 22L Pack
• Long, moderate to challenging day hikes: REI Co-op Trail 25L Pack or Cotopaxi Luzon Del Dia 24L Pack

🥢 Trekking Poles – Essential for stability, balance, and support when hiking trails, especially on tough, rocky, and uneven terrain. I use REI Co-op Trailmade Trekking Poles and love them!

❄️ Microspikes – Bring a pair of microspikes if you’re visiting in the winter and you’re planning to hike along icy trails. They will give you good traction to avoid slipping! I use Black Diamond Access Spike Traction Device.

🦟 Mosquito/Bug Repellants – In the warmer months, be prepared for annoying gnats, mosquitoes, and flies. Wear long-sleeve clothing, a head net, and use bug spray.

🧤 Extra Warm Layers – If you expect cooler conditions or hiking to higher elevations, make sure to pack extra layers for added warmth, such as gloves, beanie, neck gaiter, and a light jacket.

🗺️ Navigation – Carry a physical topographic map, compass, a satellite messenger (or personal locator beacon), and download offline maps to help you stay on course, find your way in unfamiliar terrain, and call for help if needed.

🔦 Headlamp/Flashlight – A reliable light source with extra batteries, in case you end up hiking in the dark or need it for emergency situations.

💧 Water – Water bottles to carry sufficient water to stay hydrated, along with a filtration system or purification tablets if you plan to refill from natural sources.

🍕 Food – Energy-rich snacks or meals to keep your energy levels up during the hike.

😎 Sun Protection – Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sunhat to protect yourself from harmful UV rays, even when it’s cloudy. Also, polarized sunglasses are important when it’s bright outside and to reduce glare from reflective surfaces like water, snow, and roads.

🩹 First-Aid Kit – A basic first-aid kit with items like bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any personal medications you may need.

🥶 Emergency Shelter – Pack an emergency bivy sack or space blanket for shelter in case of sudden weather changes.

🔥 Fire – A lighter, matches, or fire starter to help you build a fire for warmth or signaling in case of emergency. Along with matches, I also carry a multi-tool carabiner that has a fire starter, utility blade, screwdriver, and bottle opener.

🗡️ Multi-Tool and Repair Kit – A versatile tool/knife and repair kit to handle any task, from preparing food to making repairs.

💩 Waste Disposal Supplies – WAG bags, trowel, toilet paper, pee cloth, wipes, Ziploc bags – be sure to pack out everything!

Conclusion

When people visit Yosemite National Park, many don’t realize that giant sequoias live here too. They’re not just found in Sequoia National Park!

Hiking the Big Trees Loop Trail is one of the best things to do in Yosemite. It’s especially beautiful when wildflowers are blooming or after a winter storm blankets the grove in snow.

If this guide inspires you to hike the Big Trees Loop Trail in Yosemite National Park, I’d love to hear about your adventure. Leave a comment and share your experience!

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