But first, let’s brush up on the tree known as Giant Sequoia.
What is a Giant Sequoia?
Sadly, pollution, logging, and other factors have led to their current endangered classification. This state of endangerment makes Mariposa Grove’s restoration that much more significant.
About Mariposa Grove
Located in Yosemite National Park, Mariposa Grove is the largest grove of Giant Sequoias in Yosemite National Park. Home to two of the largest Giant Sequoias in the entire world it was first visited by non-natives, Galen Clark and Milton, in 1857.
Years later, in June 1864, President Abraham Lincoln signed an Act of Congress. This gave control of Mariposa Grove and Yosemite Valley to the State of California.
In 1890, several years after the signing of the Act of Congress, Yosemite National Park was first established. At this time the state of California returned the grove to federal control, making Mariposa Grove a natural landmark.
Restoration
For 150 years and counting, Mariposa Grove continues to WOW the masses. But with high popularity comes high amounts of traffic. Over the years, high traffic led to the area becoming tarnished.
So, it came as no surprise when Mariposa Grove was closed in July 2015. In order to preserve the historical landmark, Mariposa Grove was closed as part of the landmark restoration project. It’s been said the project is the “largest in park history” (Mercury News, 13 June 2018 ).
The once tarnished landmark is now a beautifully restored piece of Yosemite National Park. In fact, as part of an effort to create a space conducive to a healthy forest environment, you’ll find some notable changes.
What can you expect?
- New restrooms and hiking trails
- Indigenous plants
- Vehicle access to the grove during peak times is restricted to disabled visitors and shuttles.
- NO tram rides, gift shop, or diesel fueling station
Stay A While Longer
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Grizzly Giant Loop: a 2-mile hike giving you the opportunity to see Fallen Monarch, Grizzly Giant, California Tunnel Tree, and the Bachelor & Three Graces.
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Mariposa Grove Trail: a 7-mile hike that will take you to the beautiful Wawona Point and the upper grove, as well as through Grizzly Giant Loop.
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Guardians Loop: 6.5 miles of hiking that includes Grizzly Giant Loop as well as the upper grove.
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Big Trees Loop: a shorter hike of 0.3 miles to see Fallen Monarch
So come. We invite you to stay with us in one of our accommodating Chalets, Suites, or Specialty Cabins while you explore the vast wilderness of Yosemite National Park. Our staff will do our best to ensure your stay is a comfortable one.
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