Sequoia National Forest

Sequoia National Forest is a large protected forest area in California covering diverse terrain with deep canyons, mountain ridges, and groves of giant sequoia trees. The landscape includes multiple elevation zones ranging from lower valleys to high alpine areas with varied forest types.

The forest was established by the United States Forest Service in 1908 as a protected area to preserve the ancient giant sequoias and California's natural resources. This creation reflected broader early twentieth-century efforts to safeguard forest ecosystems from logging and development.

Native American peoples lived within these forests for centuries, developing deep ties to the land that remain reflected in local place names and oral traditions. This heritage continues to shape how the forest is understood and respected by those who visit today.

Multiple campgrounds, hiking trails, and visitor centers operate throughout the year to serve visitors exploring the forest. Spring through early fall offers the best conditions for travel, as higher elevation roads may close during winter due to snow.

The forest contains the Boole Tree, one of the largest known giant sequoias, standing at about 269 feet tall. This remarkable specimen grows in a more remote location away from main visitor routes, making it a discovery for those who venture off the beaten path.