Sequoia National Park boasts some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the United States. The "Sherman Tree & Congress Trail Walk" offers visitors a chance to experience the park’s towering giants up close. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, guests can explore the iconic General Sherman Tree and enjoy the park’s rich history and diverse wildlife. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, this private tour promises to leave a lasting impression.
Key Points
Key points about the "Sequoia National Park: Sherman Tree & Congress Trail Walk" tour:
- This 3-hour private group tour allows up to 7 participants to explore the Giant Forest, including a guided walk to the General Sherman Tree.
- The tour covers 3 miles with an elevation gain of 300ft, and is wheelchair accessible, with the guide trained in First Aid and CPR.
- Participants can learn about the park’s natural and cultural history, spot wildlife, and receive 3 professionally taken and edited photos of the group.
- The tour is priced at $450 per group and offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
- Recommended items for the tour include sunglasses, sturdy hiking shoes, and water, but pets and unaccompanied minors are not allowed.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The tour, titled "Sequoia National Park: Sherman Tree & Congress Trail Walk," is priced at $450.00 per group, accommodating up to 7 participants.
This private group tour lasts 3 hours and provides a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Visitors can reserve now and pay later.
Visitors can reserve now and pay later for this Sequoia National Park tour.
The tour explores the Giant Forest, offering a guided walk to the iconic General Sherman Tree and opportunities to spot wildlife like black bears and mule deer.
Looking for more options in Sequoia National Park? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary and Highlights
Starting at the Sherman Tree Parking Access in the Giant Forest, the tour begins with a 10-minute safety briefing.
Guests then walk 15 minutes to the iconic General Sherman Tree. The guide leads a 1-hour tour through the Giant Forest, stopping for photos and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Along the way, they’ll learn about the park’s natural and cultural history. The tour concludes with a return to the starting location.
Highlights include a private guide, potential wildlife sightings such as black bears and mule deer, and 3 professionally taken and edited photos of the group.
Accessibility and Safety
Though the tour takes place above 6,000 feet (1828m) and covers 3 miles (4.8km), the route is wheelchair accessible.
The tour guide is First Aid and CPR trained and carries a basic first aid kit. An emergency medical contact device is also available.
The tour involves elevation gains of around 300ft (91m) on two hills, so participants should be prepared for moderate physical activity.
To ensure safety, the following restrictions apply:
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Pets (except assistance dogs) aren’t allowed.
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Unaccompanied minors aren’t permitted.
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The tour will proceed rain or shine, but Big Trees Tours may reschedule or cancel due to hazardous weather or park closures.
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3% of revenue goes back to the parks to support conservation efforts.
What to Bring and Restrictions
Participants should bring a variety of items to ensure they’re prepared for the tour’s moderate physical activity and changing weather conditions.
Recommended items include sunglasses, a sun hat, sturdy hiking shoes, sunscreen, water, rain gear, and comfortable clothing. Insect repellent and a daypack are also suggested.
Pets, except for assistance dogs, aren’t allowed on the tour. Unaccompanied minors are also prohibited.
The tour will proceed rain or shine, but Big Trees Tours may reschedule or cancel due to hazardous weather or park closures.
A portion of the revenue goes back to supporting the parks.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Feedback and Additional Information
The tour boasts an overall rating of 5/5 based on 2 reviews, with customer testimonials highlighting the effectiveness of the guide and the tour’s educational value.
The tour will proceed rain or shine, though Big Trees Tours may reschedule or cancel due to hazardous weather or park closures. Customers are encouraged to stay updated on local news and follow the company on social media for tour-specific updates.
The tour’s sustainable practices are noteworthy, with 3% of revenue going back to the parks.
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The tour is wheelchair accessible.
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It takes place above 6,000 feet (1828m) and covers 3 miles (4.8km) with elevation gains of around 300ft (91m) on two hills.
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The guide is First Aid and CPR trained and carries a basic first aid kit.
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Emergency medical contact devices are available during the tour.
Exploring the Giant Forest
As visitors embark on the tour, they’ll enjoy the grandeur of the Giant Forest, a lush, old-growth ecosystem within Sequoia National Park.
Guided by an expert, they’ll explore the towering sequoia trees, some of the largest in the world. Along the way, they may spot native wildlife like black bears and mule deer.
Guided by an expert, visitors explore towering sequoia trees and may spot native wildlife like black bears and mule deer.
The tour offers opportunities to learn about the natural and cultural history of the area, with various photo stops to capture the breathtaking scenery.
Traversing the Congress Trail, guests will be awed by the sheer scale and majesty of this ancient, living forest.
Encountering Wildlife in Sequoia
While exploring the majestic Giant Forest, participants may encounter a variety of wildlife native to Sequoia National Park.
Some common sightings include:
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Black bears, known for their impressive size and striking black coats, are frequently spotted foraging for food or crossing trails.
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Mule deer, with their large ears and distinctive facial features, can often be seen grazing in the understory or bounding through the forest.
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Golden-mantled ground squirrels, with their vibrant orange-red backs, dart between the towering sequoia trees, scurrying to collect their winter cache.
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Steller’s jays, with their brilliant blue plumage and distinctive crested heads, may be heard calling out from the canopy, adding to the park’s vibrant soundscape.
The Significance of the Sherman Tree
At the heart of the Sequoia National Park’s Giant Forest lies the majestic Sherman Tree, a true natural wonder that captivates all who behold it.
Named after General William Tecumseh Sherman, this colossal sequoia is the largest tree on Earth, standing over 275 feet tall and measuring over 36 feet in diameter at the base.
Its immense size and age, estimated to be over 2,500 years old, make it a symbol of the park’s ancient and awe-inspiring landscapes.
Visitors can marvel at the Sherman Tree’s sheer grandeur, connecting with the timeless beauty and resilience of these remarkable living giants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
According to the tour details, there are no specific age restrictions mentioned. The tour is suitable for participants of all ages, though unaccompanied minors are not allowed to join the group tour.
Do I Need to Bring My Own Photography Equipment?
No, you don’t need to bring your own photography equipment. The tour includes 3 professionally taken and edited photographs of the group, so you can just focus on enjoying the experience without worrying about capturing the memories yourself.
Can I Extend the Tour Duration for Additional Cost?
Yes, the tour duration can be extended for an additional cost. Guests can speak with the tour guide or booking agent to inquire about extending the tour and the associated fees.
Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary?
Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized for an additional cost. Customers can work with the tour provider to adjust the route, activities, and duration to suit their preferences and needs. The provider offers flexibility to accommodate special requests.
How Often Do Guides Receive Safety and First Aid Training?
Tour guides receive regular safety and first aid training to ensure the wellbeing of participants. They carry a first aid kit and have an emergency medical contact device on hand during the tour.
The Sum Up
The "Sherman Tree & Congress Trail Walk" offers a unique opportunity to take in the grandeur of Sequoia National Park. From the iconic General Sherman Tree to the diverse wildlife, this tour provides an unforgettable experience for visitors of all abilities. With a knowledgeable guide and safety measures in place, guests can fully appreciate the park’s natural and cultural significance while creating lasting memories.
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