Grant Grove is the northern gateway to the sequoias and the oldest part of Kings Canyon National Park, protected in 1890 as General Grant National Park. Its centerpiece is the General Grant Tree, a giant sequoia about 267 feet tall and roughly 40 feet across at the base, among the largest trees on Earth by volume. In 1926 it was named the Nation's Christmas Tree, and in 1956 it was designated a living national shrine to honor those who died in war, with ceremonies held every December and on Memorial Day. A paved loop of about a third of a mile leads from the parking area through the grove to the tree, past the Fallen Monarch, a huge hollow fallen sequoia that has been used as a shelter, saloon, hotel and even a stable by cavalry, and you can walk the length of its interior. The loop also passes the Gamlin Cabin, a pioneer home that gives a sense of early settler life. A longer loop, the North Grove Loop, branches off to quieter groves and the Dead Giant. The grove sits at about 6,500 feet, in a cool forest of sequoias, sugar pine and fir. Grant Grove Village, close by, has a visitor center, a restaurant and market, a gift shop and lodging at John Muir Lodge and nearby cabins. From the village, Highway 180 continues down to the canyon and the Generals Highway leads south to the Giant Forest, making Grant Grove an excellent base for exploring both parks. Many visitors arrive from Fresno, about an hour and a half away, via Highway 180.
Seeing it well. Start early to avoid tour groups at the General Grant Tree viewing area, and walk the loop slowly so you can read the interpretive signs. Take time inside the Fallen Monarch to appreciate the size of the trunk, which you can walk through. The Gamlin Cabin and the Centennial Stump, the remains of a huge sequoia cut in the nineteenth century for exhibition, show how settlers and loggers used the trees before protection came. The stump is a sobering contrast to the living giants nearby.
Seasons. Winter blankets the grove with snow, and the village becomes a base for snowshoeing and sledding, although Highway 180 beyond Grant Grove closes for the season. Spring sees dogwood and wildflowers in the lower stretches of the road. Summer is the busiest period, with tour groups and the grove's parking lot filling by late morning. Autumn offers color from dogwood and oak and cooler air, with fewer crowds.
Planning notes. The Kings Canyon visitor center in Grant Grove Village provides maps, permits and exhibits, and the village has free Wi-Fi. A short drive leads to Panoramic Point, one of the best viewpoints in the area. The Grant Grove area is a good family stop because the walks are short and flat and the trunk of the Fallen Monarch is irresistible to children. Keep your distance from wildlife, store food properly, and remember that this is a national shrine, so keep voices low and respect any ceremonies.
Practical extras. The General Grant Tree area has accessible parking and restrooms, and a paved path suitable for most visitors. The visitor center sells maps and books on the sequoias and often has ranger programs in summer. If you stay in the village, take an evening stroll when the day visitors have left to hear owls and see deer. In the Christmas season the tree is the focus of a wreath-laying ceremony, an old tradition that continues, and visitors are welcome to attend.
What to expect
The experience
A paved loop of about a third of a mile to the General Grant Tree, past the Fallen Monarch hollow log and Gamlin Cabin, with longer loops to quieter groves.
Best time
Early morning for fewer groups; winter for snow in the grove.
How long
An hour for the main loop, two with the North Grove Loop.
Tips
The Fallen Monarch can be walked through. Parking fills by late morning in summer, and the village has food and a visitor center.
Quick picks
- Best for
- First-time visitors to Kings Canyon who want a quick sequoia fix.
- Families
- A short, flat loop with a hollow log to walk through.
- Couples
- A quiet North Grove loop in the early morning.
- Pair with
- Panoramic Point and the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway.
- Time needed
- Two hours.
Good questions
Why is it called the Nation's Christmas Tree?+
It was named that in 1926, and ceremonies are held there each December. It was also designated a living shrine to honor those lost in war.
How tall is the General Grant Tree?+
About 267 feet, with a base roughly 40 feet across.
Can I walk inside the Fallen Monarch?+
Yes, you can walk through its hollow interior along the trail.
How far is Grant Grove from Fresno?+
Roughly an hour and a half by car along Highway 180.
Is there food and lodging?+
Grant Grove Village has a restaurant and market, a visitor center and lodging at John Muir Lodge and nearby cabins, with seasonal hours.
