Moro Rock Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Geological Significance · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Moro Rock is a short but scenic run in Sequoia National Park, offering panoramic views of the Great Western Divide. This out-and-back features a steep staircase with over 350 stone steps carved into the granite dome. While the climb is strenuous, the effort is well rewarded with breathtaking views.

Driving the Moro Rock/Crescent Meadow Road makes a shorter version of this hike because you can park right at the trailhead for the Moro Rock steps. However, access to this road is by park shuttle only on summer weekends, and it closes in winter. This longer run is accessible year round except for occasional winter storm closures.

The Moro Rock trail starts at the Giant Forest Museum. You can park across the street in the Big Trees Trail parking lot and walk across the road. You can visit the museum and gift shop before you start your run.

Start along the road toward Moro Rock and on the right side of the road, you'll see the Moro Rock Trail sign. It is a singletrack dirt trail that meanders through the forest. As you make your way along the trail, you can see Giant Sequoias all around you. These giants tower above the trail and provide shade throughout the day, which makes it a great run no matter what time of day. Because of the elevation, it is cooler in the forest than it is in the foothills.

While the trees provide shade and your gaze is drawn to the giants that tower above you, don't forget to look at the ground. You can see sequoia cones that have fallen from the trees, and the many soft plants that grow in the shady understory. Around 1.25 miles, the Bear Hill Trail joins the Moro Rock trail from the left hand side. At 1.4 miles, the trail forks. You can go to the right and follow the Viewpoint Spur that goes out to a side view of Moro Rock. This makes a great spot for sunsets as well. Continuing straight, the trail crosses the road and climbs a short hill above.

The Soldiers Trail breaks off the the left at 1.6 miles, and the main trail then descends to the Moro Rock Loop Road parking area. From here, the trail climbs steeply up Moro Rock via stone steps. On the stairs and on top of Moro Rock, sections of the trail have handrails, but you should still be mindful of the drop offs and keep a close eye on children.

There are great view points on the way to the top of the rock. You 'll see the foothills to the west and the Western Divide to the east. Once you have enjoyed the views, you can continue following any of the trails in the area to extend your day running among the Giant Sequoias, or follow the trail the same way back to your car.

The main feature of this run is the Giant Sequoia trees that can be seen throughout the run. You can see all stages of a sequoia's life. There are mature trees towering over you, fire damaged remains of trees, fallen trees, and if you watch your step, you can even see Sequoia cones ready to sprout. As for animals, deer can be seen eating in the forest throughout the day, and you have a chance of seeing a black bear at any time of day as well.