Yosemite’s Mariposa Grove offers a remarkable opportunity to take in the grandeur of ancient Giant Sequoias. This guided hike promises a captivating exploration of these majestic trees, showcasing iconic landmarks and providing insights into the unique ecology of the area. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or seeking a family-friendly adventure, this 2.5-hour journey through the heart of the Sierras is sure to leave a lasting impression. Discover the awe-inspiring beauty that awaits within this remarkable forest.
Key Points
- The Mariposa Grove guided hike offers a 2.5-hour, 5.5-mile tour through Yosemite’s ancient Giant Sequoia forest, featuring iconic landmarks like the Grizzly Giant and Fallen Monarch.
- Expert guides provide in-depth commentary on the captivating flora, fauna, and geological features of the Sequoia grove, enhancing the immersive experience.
- The hike is family-friendly, with an easy to moderate difficulty level, and can be customized based on participant preferences and fitness levels.
- The tour starts from Pedal Forward Bikes & Adventure, located 20 minutes by car or 10 minutes by bus/coach from the Mariposa Grove.
- The guided hike is available from mid-April through November, subject to weather conditions, and a full refund is offered for cancellations made 24 hours in advance.
Activity Overview and Pricing
The Mariposa Grove Guided Hike offers visitors a chance to discover the grandeur of Yosemite’s ancient Giant Sequoias. This 2.5-hour guided tour takes hikers through the Mariposa Grove, showcasing 3,000-year-old trees.
Priced from $300 per person, the hike covers 5.5 miles on a well-maintained dirt trail. With an easy to moderate difficulty level, the tour is family-friendly. Guests can explore iconic landmarks like the Grizzly Giant and Fallen Monarch.
The expert guide shares insights into the grove’s flora, fauna, and geology, and the hike can be customized to suit preferences and fitness levels. A reserve now, pay later option is available.
Love being outdoors? Check out these other hiking spots we've covered in California
Itinerary Details
The guided hike begins at Pedal Forward Bikes & Adventure, located 20 minutes by car or 10 minutes by bus/coach from the Mariposa Grove.
Participants will embark on a 5.5-mile hike along a well-maintained dirt trail through the ancient grove. The hike is considered easy to moderate, making it family-friendly.
Highlights include the iconic Grizzly Giant, the Fallen Monarch, and the California Tunnel Tree. Hikers will have the opportunity to customize the experience based on their preferences and fitness levels, led by an expert guide who shares insights about the flora, fauna, and geology of the area.
Guided Experience
Expert guides lead the Mariposa Grove hike, sharing insightful commentary about the grove’s captivating flora, fauna, and geological features.
Hikers can customize the experience based on their preferences and fitness levels. The guides ensure participants fully enjoy the iconic landmarks, such as the Grizzly Giant, Fallen Monarch, and California Tunnel Tree.
With their extensive knowledge, the guides provide valuable context that enhances the overall hiking experience. This guided tour offers a unique opportunity to discover and appreciate the grandeur of the 3,000-year-old Giant Sequoias within Yosemite’s Mariposa Grove.
Logistics and Availability
The Mariposa Grove guided hike is available mid-April through November, weather permitting.
Participants should have a moderate level of physical fitness to complete the 5.5-mile hike on a well-maintained dirt trail. A full cancellation policy allows for a full refund if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.
Participants should have a moderate fitness level to complete the 5.5-mile hike. A full refund is available if canceled 24 hours in advance.
Visitors should arrive 15 minutes early for check-in at the meeting point, Pedal Forward Bikes & Adventure. The hike isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, but assistance dogs are allowed.
Comfortable hiking shoes and water/snacks are recommended to make the most of this iconic Yosemite experience.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information for Participants
Participants should meet at the starting location of Pedal Forward Bikes & Adventure, arriving 15 minutes before the scheduled departure.
The guided hike through Mariposa Grove isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, but assistance dogs are allowed. Visitors should wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring water and snacks.
The hike covers 5.5 miles on a well-maintained dirt trail, with a difficulty level ranging from easy to moderate, making it family-friendly. Participants should have a moderate level of physical fitness to fully enjoy this 2.5-hour guided experience through the ancient Giant Sequoias.
Enjoying having a local guide? These other guided experiences in California might interest you
Exploring the Mariposa Grove
As visitors step into the serene sanctuary of the Mariposa Grove, they’ll be captivated by the towering presence of the ancient Giant Sequoias.
These massive trees, some reaching over 200 feet tall, have stood witness to centuries of history. The guided hike takes explorers along a well-maintained trail, where they’ll discover the Grizzly Giant, an awe-inspiring 3,000-year-old specimen, and the Fallen Monarch, a fallen giant that provides a unique perspective.
Along the way, the expert guide shares insights about the grove’s intricate ecosystem, from its diverse flora and fauna to the geological forces that shaped this remarkable landscape.
Highlights of the Hike
Traversing the well-maintained trail, hikers encounter a series of captivating highlights that showcase the Mariposa Grove’s natural wonders. The iconic Grizzly Giant, estimated to be over 3,000 years old, stands as a testament to the grove’s longevity. The Fallen Monarch, a once-mighty tree now resting on the forest floor, offers a unique perspective on the cycle of life. The California Tunnel Tree, with its grand archway carved by human hands, adds an intriguing touch to the landscape. Exploring these landmarks, visitors are immersed in the ancient majesty of the Giant Sequoias.
| Highlight | Age | Height | Diameter |
| — | — | — | — |
| Grizzly Giant | 3,000+ Years | 209 Feet | 29.6 Feet |
| Fallen Monarch | Unknown | 220 Feet | 28 Feet |
| California Tunnel Tree | Unknown | 209 Feet | 22.1 Feet |
Why Visit the Mariposa Grove
Why visit the Mariposa Grove? This ancient forest of Giant Sequoias offers a glimpse into nature’s grandeur.
Explore the awe-inspiring trees that have stood for millennia, standing strong against the test of time. Here’s why it’s a must-visit:
-
Witness living history: Marvel at the 3,000-year-old Grizzly Giant, one of the largest trees in the world.
-
Discover unique formations: Be amazed by the California Tunnel Tree, a Sequoia carved out by natural forces.
-
Immerse in tranquility: Hike through the serene forest, surrounded by towering giants and lush greenery.
Ask Away
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Hike?
The hike is family-friendly and there are no age restrictions. However, participants should have a moderate level of physical fitness to complete the 5.5-mile hike through the Mariposa Grove.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Hike?
Pets are generally not allowed on the guided hike. However, assistance dogs are permitted to accompany participants. Hikers should check with the tour operator for any specific pet policies before booking the experience.
Is There an Option for a Private Tour?
Yes, there is an option for a private tour. Participants can arrange a private guided hike with their group for an additional fee. This allows for a more personalized experience and flexible scheduling.
Can I Purchase Food or Snacks During the Hike?
Yes, participants can purchase food and snacks before the hike. However, they’re encouraged to bring their own provisions to enjoy during the tour, as there are no food vendors within the Mariposa Grove.
How Do I Get to the Starting Location if I Don’t Have Transportation?
If you don’t have transportation, you can take the bus or coach to the starting location at Pedal Forward Bikes & Adventure, which is a 10-minute ride from the Mariposa Grove. The tour operator provides this transportation option for your convenience.
Final Words
Explore the timeless beauty of Yosemite’s Mariposa Grove on a guided hike. Witness the awe-inspiring Giant Sequoias, including the iconic Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree. This 2.5-hour adventure promises a memorable experience, perfect for families and nature enthusiasts. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about the tranquil wilderness and learn about the unique ecosystem of this remarkable forest.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Walking Tours in California
More Tours in California
- Napa Valley: All-Inclusive Private Full-Day Wine Tour
- Visalia City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Zombie Scavengers
- Downey City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Zombie Scavengers
- Private Off-Roading Tour at Frank Raines OHV Park
- Northern California: Self-Guided Gold Rush Towns Driving Tour
- Modesto Almond Blossom Tour: Explore & Discover – Audio Tour
More Tour Reviews in California
- John Wayne Airport (SNA): One Way Private Transfer Service
- Los Angeles: Los Angeles Chargers Football Game Ticket
- Monterey and 17 Mile Drive: Half-Day Electric Bike Rental
- Napa Valley: All-Inclusive Private Full-Day Wine Tour
- Visalia City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Zombie Scavengers
- Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Hayward by Zombie Scavengers
Still browsing? Here are more California experiences we've covered recently
- John Wayne Airport (SNA): One Way Private Transfer Service
- Los Angeles: Los Angeles Chargers Football Game Ticket
- Monterey and 17 Mile Drive: Half-Day Electric Bike Rental
- Napa Valley: All-Inclusive Private Full-Day Wine Tour
- Our Picks For The 3 Best Workshops & Classes In California
- California’s 3 Top Walking Tours (With Prices)
- The Top 2 Full-Day Tours In California
- 2 Best 2 Hour Tours In California (With Prices)
- The Top 2 Private Driver Services In California
- Top 4 National Park Tours In California
- Visalia City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Zombie Scavengers
- Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Hayward by Zombie Scavengers