Giant Sequoia National Monument

Giant Sequoia National Monument is a nature reserve in the Sierra Nevada containing 38 groves of these ancient trees. The protected land preserves the forest ecosystems where these giants naturally grow and thrive.

The monument was established by presidential decree in 2000 to protect thousands of giant sequoias and their habitats. This protection came after decades when the trees faced logging threats and habitat loss.

The Chicago Stump Trail displays remnants of a giant sequoia that was dismantled for a 1897 world's fair exhibition. This site reflects a time when these trees were treated as curiosities before protection became the priority.

The site remains open year-round, though winter weather can limit access to higher elevations. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear and bring plenty of water, especially for longer hikes.

Gray wolves returned to this protected land in 2023 after more than a century of absence. Their comeback shows how nature can recover when given the chance in a safeguarded area.

Location: California

Inception: April 15, 2000

Operator: United States Forest Service

Website: https://fs.usda.gov/detail/sequoia/home/?cid=stelprdb5394941

GPS coordinates: 36.04000,-118.50400

Latest update: December 7, 2025 10:03