Big Stump Trail - 2mi Easy Hike

Q: Can I visit in winter?

Yes. The picnic area becomes a snowplay spot. The trail may be icy; check with the visitor center for current conditions. Road closures possible in heavy snow.

Q: Do I need a permit or make a reservation?

No permit or reservation required. Pay the park entrance fee ($35 per vehicle) at the entrance station.

Q: Are there restrooms and water at the trailhead?

Yes. Accessible restrooms and water fountains are at the Big Stump Picnic Area. No water on the trail itself.

Q: Why was the Mark Twain Tree cut down?

In 1891, the Army felled the tree to display it at the American Museum of Natural History and museums in London and New York to prove giant sequoias actually existed. The stump (4.8 meters / 16 feet in diameter) remains as a historical artifact.

Q: Is this trail crowded?

Moderate crowds during peak season (July–August, 10 AM–3 PM). Early morning or weekday visits are much quieter. Visit in spring or fall for fewer people.

Q: Can I see other giant sequoia trees on this trail?

The Mark Twain Stump is the highlight. Nearby General Grant Grove Trail offers views of standing giant sequoias. Check the visitor center for directions to other groves.

Distance

2 mi

Elevation Gain

200 ft

Est. Time

1–1.5 hours

Route Type

Out-and-back

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

May through October

Overview

About This Trail

Big Stump Trail is a 2-mile hike from the Grant Grove picnic area to the Mark Twain Stump, a historic giant sequoia felled in 1891. The hike passes through forest with minor elevation changes and features a small staircase allowing visitors to climb atop the massive stump. Fully accessible picnic area with shade and restrooms makes this an ideal first stop after the park entrance, especially for families.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy

Trail Highlights

The Mark Twain Stump offers a tangible sense of the enormous size of giant sequoias. The small staircase and flat top allow visitors to stand atop the 4.8-meter-diameter stump. Winter snowplay opportunities in the picnic area add seasonal variety.

Insider Tips

• The picnic area is the park's first stop past the entrance—use it to acclimate and plan your day. • Visit weekday mornings in spring/fall to avoid crowds. • The Mark Twain Tree was cut down in 1891 to prove giant sequoias existed; the stump is an important historical artifact. • Snowplay in winter is excellent for families; bring sleds.

Best Season to Hike

May through October

Hiking Tips

Bring water despite easy terrain—high elevation (6,000 ft) increases dehydration.
The picnic area shade is abundant; rest here before/after the hike.
Climb the staircase on the stump for the best photo angle and perspective on tree size.
In winter, the picnic area becomes a snowplay spot; dress warmly.

Family Info

Excellent for families. Easy distance, shaded picnic area, and climbable stump appeal to children. Supervision recommended on stump platform. Excellent trail for toddlers and elderly if pace is slow.

What Hikers Say

Hikers appreciate the hike's accessibility and historical significance. The stump is visually impressive, and the short distance appeals to families with young children. Most feedback highlights the quick payoff after minimal effort.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 2 miles

Elevation Gain: 200 ft

Duration: 1–1.5 hours

Difficulty: Easy

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Forest floor with some roots and rocks

Getting There

Trailhead: Big Stump Picnic Area, 0.7 miles from Big Stump Entrance Station on Highway 180

Parking: Multiple spaces including accessible and RV parking

Restrooms at trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

No permit required. Entrance fee ($35 per vehicle, valid 1–7 days) applies to entire park.

Fees: $35 per private vehicle (1–7 days); $20 per person on foot/bike; $30 motorcycle

Shuttle Available

No shuttle required. Direct access from parking area.

Trail Rules

Dogs: No pets permitted

Biking: No

Trail Markers: Well-marked trail with signs at trailhead and key junctions

View on AllTrails

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Bring water from the picnic area. No water sources on trail.

Shade: Forested trail with significant shade. Picnic area has covered shelters.

Cell Service: No cell service on trail. Service available at Grant Grove Village.

Hazards:

Rooty and rocky terrain requires stable footing. High elevation may cause shortness of breath in unacclimated visitors. Winter snowmelt can create icy patches on the trail.

Emergency: Kings Canyon Visitor Center: (559) 565-4307. In emergencies, flag down a ranger or return to picnic area.

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Moderate—less crowded than nearby General Grant Grove Trail

Peak Times: 10 AM–3 PM during summer peak season (July–August)

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Rooty and rocky trail with gradual elevation changes. Accessible picnic area with extended tables, raised barbecues, paved paths, accessible restrooms, and accessible parking.

Family Notes:

Excellent for families. Easy distance, shaded picnic area, and climbable stump appeal to children. Supervision recommended on stump platform. Excellent trail for toddlers and elderly if pace is slow.

Nearby Facilities

Big Stump Picnic Area (parking, restrooms, picnic tables, shade shelters). Grant Grove Village (1 mile away): visitor center, store, restaurant, lodging.

What Hikers Say

FAQs

Is this trail suitable for young children and elderly hikers?

Yes. The 2-mile distance and easy terrain work for most fitness levels. The picnic area is fully accessible. Take breaks as needed.

Can I visit in winter?

Do I need a permit or make a reservation?

Are there restrooms and water at the trailhead?

Why was the Mark Twain Tree cut down?

Is this trail crowded?

Can I see other giant sequoia trees on this trail?

📖 National Park Service — Big Stump (official page) (checked 2026-07-02) 📖 National Park Service — Sequoia National Park fees, hours & conditions (checked 2026-07-05) 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works →

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