TrailThe General Sherman Tree
Largest tree by volume. 0.5 miles paved. Don't underestimate the 200-foot return climb—bring water and poles.
200 ft elev. gain
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Trail of the Sequoias Winter Trail
Last Updated: July 2026
Distance
3 mi
Elevation Gain
1,086 ft
Est. Time
4–6 hours round trip (varies with snow depth, fitness, and descent speed)
Route Type
One-way (Crescent Meadow to McKinley Tree Junction); can be combined with Crescent Trail for a loop by experienced skiers
Dogs Allowed
No
Best Season
Winter (December–March)
Overview
About This Trail
Trail of the Sequoias Winter Trail is a demanding backcountry ski route through the eastern edge of Giant Forest, delivering steep pitches and thick sequoia forest—not a groomed park trail. You'll gain 1,086 feet over 3 miles with a sustained descent that demands technical control and winter experience. The payoff is solitude and ancient forest few see in winter. This is a lung-buster for experienced skiers only.
Highlights
Difficulty Level
Advanced (Medium/Hard winter skiing)
Trail Highlights
Skiing through an ancient giant sequoia forest under winter conditions that few experience. The steep pitches test technical skill while solitude and old-growth forest reward the effort.
Insider Tips
• The descent is faster than you think—ego kills more skiers than steepness; control your speed. • Combine this trail with Crescent Trail for a full loop if conditions allow (adds complexity but rewarding for strong skiers). • Winter conditions vary weekly; check the park's winter conditions website before driving up. • The false flat at Mile 2 will try to trick you—steeper pitches follow immediately after. • Ski partners are essential—never solo this terrain. If one person gets hurt, the other must be capable of rescue.
Best Season to Hike
Winter (December–March)
Hiking Tips
- Control speed on the descent—deep pitches demand aggressive edge work.
- Carry 2L+ water and a winter emergency kit (heat, first aid, shelter).
- Avalanche awareness is critical; check recent slope conditions.
- Bring a map and compass; blazes are buried under snow.
- Never do this alone—ski with a partner.
- Tighten boots hard; loose boots = ankle twist on steep terrain.
- Hypothermia can sneak up—stay dry and keep moving.
- The Crescent Meadow Road Winter Trail adds 1-2 hours access; plan time accordingly.
Family Info
Not suitable for families. Requires advanced winter skiing or snowshoeing skills. Trail is designated for experienced skiers; novices and children will struggle and face real hazard from steep terrain, cold exposure, and navigation difficulty. Best suited to adults with winter backcountry experience.
What Hikers Say
Experienced winter skiers will find this trail rewarding but unforgiving. The steep pitches through ancient sequoia forest deliver technical challenge and solitude that few pursue in winter. Hiker feedback emphasizes the physical toll of sustained elevation loss and the mental strain of navigation in whiteout snow—not a trail to underestimate.
More at Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
ℹ️ Data Sources
National Park Service — Trail of the Sequoias Winter Trail (official page) (checked 2026-07-03) 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 →