The Congress Trail: A Complete Guide from Start to Sequoia’s Grand Finish

Step into a world where giant trees stretch far into the sky and the only sounds you hear are birdsong and rustling leaves. The Congress Trail at Sequoia National Park is more than just a hiking path, it’s a walk through one of the most magical forests on Earth. As you explore this peaceful trail, you’ll stand beside ancient sequoias that have been growing for thousands of years.

This guide will help you explore The Congress Trail in detail. It includes everything you need to plan a great visit, such as where The Congress Trail begins, where it ends, how long it is, and more. Get ready for a truly magical hike.

About The Congress Trail

The Congress Trail is a beautiful 2.7-mile loop in Sequoia National Park’s Giant Forest. It starts near the famous General Sherman Tree, known as the largest tree in the world by volume.

This fully paved and easy-to-walk trail is great for people of all ages and abilities. With a gentle climb of around 230 feet, it works well for families, strollers, and anyone who needs a smooth path.

The trail is named after American political groups and features massive sequoia trees like the President Tree, Senate Group, and House Group. Many of these trees are over 3,000 years old.

The walk begins at the Sherman Tree parking area on Wolverton Road, going down to the General Sherman Tree before leading into a peaceful loop through the heart of the Giant Forest.

How to Reach Congress Trail

1. By Car

• Main Parking Lot: Start your adventure by heading to the General Sherman Tree parking area on Wolverton Road. It’s about 3 miles up the road past the Giant Forest Museum. Just follow Generals Highway for 27 miles after the Foothills Visitor Center, then turn right on Wolverton Road and drive 1.5 miles. You’ll arrive at the main parking lot. From here, a scenic 0.5-mile paved trail gently leads you downhill, about 200 feet to the General Sherman Tree. Right next to it, you’ll spot a wooden sign marking the beginning of the iconic Congress Trail.

” This parking lot works well for most travelers but often gets crowded during summer, especially between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. “

• Accessible Parking Lot: If you have a disability placard, you can use a smaller, closer parking area labeled “Sherman Tree Accessible Parking” along Generals Highway. It cuts down the walk to just 0.2 miles, making it much easier to reach the start of the trail. It’s perfect for anyone who prefers a shorter path without missing out on the experience.
• Congress Trail Ending: The Congress Trail loops right back to where it started, near the General Sherman Tree. After the hike, you can take the same 0.5-mile path uphill to return to the main lot. If you parked in the accessible area, a quicker 0.2-mile path is available. The climb back is gentle but steady, so take your time and enjoy the last moments of this unforgettable forest walk.

2. By Park Shuttle

In summer (late May to early September), the free Sequoia Shuttle (Green Route 1) is an easy and convenient way to reach the Congress Trail Starting Point. You can catch the shuttle at Lodgepole Visitor Center or the Giant Forest Museum, where parking is available.

The shuttle runs every 15 minutes between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. It drops visitors near the General Sherman Tree trailhead, just a short 0.5-mile walk to the Congress Trail entrance. This is a great choice during busy months, helping you avoid full parking areas.

• Visitors with mobility needs can request accessibility shuttles at the visitor centers. These services help ensure a smooth trip to the trail’s starting point.
• Congress Trail Ending: After finishing the loop, the trail ends near the General Sherman Tree area. You can easily catch the return shuttle to Lodgepole or the Giant Forest Museum. Shuttles run often, so you won’t have to wait long after your hike.

3. On Foot

If you’re staying nearby, such as at Wuksachi Lodge (about 2 miles away), you can walk to the Congress Trail Starting Point using the Sherman Tree Trail. Start by following signs along Wolverton Road. It’s about a 1 to 1.5-mile walk to the main parking area.

Then, take a short 0.5-mile path downhill to reach the General Sherman Tree and the beginning of the Congress Trail. This route takes you through peaceful pine forests with views of giant sequoias.

• Those beginning at the Giant Forest Museum can reach the Congress Trail Starting Point by hiking a 3-mile path along Generals Highway. This option is less common because of vehicle traffic and no separate walking path, so be careful along the way.
• Congress Trail Ending: The trail loops back to the General Sherman Tree. From here, you can return the same way. If you’re heading back to Wuksachi Lodge, it’s a 1 to 1.5-mile uphill walk. If going back to the Giant Forest Museum, plan for a 3-mile walk. Make sure to allow extra time and bring enough energy for the return hike.

The Congress Trail Entry Fees

All visitors must carry a valid pass to enter Sequoia National Park. Below are the current entry fees:

• Private Vehicle – $35 (valid for 7 consecutive days)
• Motorcycle – $30
• Individual Entry (on foot, bicycle, or shuttle) – $20 per person
• Annual Pass – $70 (offers unlimited access for one year)

For the latest updates and complete details about entrance fees, please visit our dedicated Sequoia National Park Entrance Fee page. Planning ahead ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience in the park.

Iconic Trees and Landmarks

1. The President Tree

The President Tree stands 247 feet tall and is more than 3,200 years old, making it the oldest living sequoia on Earth. It is also the third-largest sequoia by volume, with a trunk holding over 45,000 cubic feet of wood, far bigger than most trees.

Named in 1923 to honor President Warren G. Harding, this giant often stands quietly without large crowds, offering a peaceful moment to admire its beauty. Its thick, twisted branches still show fresh growth, even after thousands of years.

2. Chief Sequoyah Tree

Chief Sequoyah Tree stands quietly behind the President Tree. This massive sequoia reaches 228 feet in height and honors Chief Sequoyah, the Cherokee leader who created the Cherokee alphabet. It ranks as the 27th largest sequoia. Its deep red bark shines beautifully in the morning light. A small sign marks its location, but it’s easy to walk past if you’re not looking carefully.

3. The Senate Group

The Senate is a cluster of six giant sequoia trees, each more than 1,000 years old. They grow so close together that their roots are likely connected underground. Named in 1922, these trees stand like a natural circle, with reddish trunks that stand out beautifully against the green forest floor. The Senate is a favorite spot for photographers, especially at sunrise when gentle light shines through the grove.

4. The House

The House is a close group of sequoia trees, named after the House of Representatives. Their tall branches curve above like a natural cathedral. As you walk under them, the quiet path makes each step sound clear, adding to the beauty of the experience.

5. McKinley Tree

Named after President William McKinley, this giant sequoia stands tall near a five-way trail junction. Its wide base and trunk marked by fire show its strength and survival over time. In 2017, a hiker saw a young sequoia fall nearby—a rare and exciting event that reminds visitors the forest is full of life and change.

6. General Lee Tree

Found along a short path off the Alta Trail, this sequoia is named after the Confederate general. About 0.4 miles past the Congress Trail, the unpaved Alta Trail leads to a quiet meadow surrounded by sequoias. The extra 0.8-mile walk is peaceful, and the General Lee tree is the highlight of the area.

7. Lincoln Tree

Standing along the Alta Trail, this 255-foot-tall sequoia is the second-largest in the park, with over 45,000 cubic feet of wood. One section of bark looks like a bearded face, adding a fun detail to its massive presence. A short 0.5-mile walk leads to this impressive natural landmark.

Ideal Time to Visit

The Congress Trail in Sequoia National Park shines year-round, but each season offers a unique vibe.

• Spring (April to May) brings cool temperatures between 50–70°F, blooming wildflowers, and fewer people on the trail. Some snow might still be on the ground.
• Summer (June to August) is warmer, around 70–80°F, with clear skies and many visitors. It’s best to start your hike early in the day to avoid large crowds.
• Fall (September to October) has crisp air, colorful leaves, and fewer hikers, which makes it one of the best times to visit. Temperatures range between 40–70°F.
• Winter (November to March) turns the trail into a snowy path with 20–40°F weather, perfect for snowshoeing. Very few people visit during this time, but it’s important to carry traction gear for safety.

For pleasant weather, quiet trails, and easy access, plan your visit during September or October. Always check nps.gov for road updates and shuttle details before heading out, especially during winter.

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