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Overview
Set in Redwood Mountain Grove—the largest giant sequoia grove by acreage—this loop delivers a quieter, wilder sequoia experience than the park’s headline groves. When fully open and maintained, expect roughly 7.2–8.3 miles total with about 1,000–1,300 feet of cumulative gain. Recent fire impacts and minimal maintenance have made sections rough and slow-going; it can feel adventurous, beautiful, and frustrating in equal measure.
Route and highlights
The classic loop starts from Redwood Saddle and quickly drops into the grove. Most hikers go clockwise: take the Hart Tree Trail to visit Hart Meadow, the short spur to the Hart Tree (one of the grove’s largest), a small seasonal waterfall, and the hulking Fallen Goliath before returning up the Redwood Creek side to close the loop. Along the way, look for the walk-through Fallen Tunnel Tree, the quirky “Log Cabin” built in a fallen trunk, old logging relics, and creekside corridors. In late spring, mountain dogwoods bloom; in fall they color up dramatically along Redwood Creek.
Difficulty and conditions
Historically a moderate, rolling forest loop, this hike is currently much tougher due to post-fire overgrowth, blowdowns, muddy stretches, and faint or vanished tread in places. The path descends to Redwood Creek and climbs back, with a couple of short, steeper pitches. Expect brushy sections (including spiky plants), step-overs, and route-finding—downloaded maps/GPS are strongly recommended.
Best time to hike
Late spring and fall are the sweet spots: spring brings dogwood blooms and flowing creeks; October shows off fall color. Winter access is typically closed by snow, and shoulder seasons can be muddy. Start early for quieter forest time and softer light among the big trees.
Access and parking
Trailhead parking is at Redwood Saddle at the end of unpaved Forest Road 14S75 (often signed as Redwood Saddle/Redwood Canyon). The road is narrow dirt and closes in winter; it generally opens from the Wednesday before Memorial Day until snow makes it impassable. Expect seasonal gate closures—always verify current status before committing to the drive.
Regulations and safety
No pets or bikes on this trail. Day hiking requires no wilderness permit, but overnight use in Redwood Canyon does require one, with limits on group size and camping near water. This is bear country—carry your food properly and stay alert. Bring long pants, extra water, and be prepared to turn around if brush, blowdowns, or unclear tread make the route unsafe. Given shifting post-fire conditions, check for current closures or advisories before you go.
Pros
- Largest sequoia grove by acreage with far fewer visitors than the marquee groves
- Walk-through fallen tunnel tree plus quirky logging-era curiosities
- Notable spring dogwood blooms and vivid fall color along Redwood Creek
Cons
- Post-fire overgrowth and blowdowns can make the trail slow and hard to follow
- Unpaved seasonal access road that closes in winter and after storms
- Easy to confuse the true Hart Tree with a nearby lookalike if you miss the spur
Parking
Park at the Redwood Saddle trailhead lot at the end of dirt Forest Road 14S75 (Redwood Saddle/Redwood Canyon). The road is narrow, unpaved, and seasonally closed in winter.
Caution
As of 2025, parts of the loop are often overgrown with blowdowns, muddy stretches, and faint tread; some reports describe the route as difficult to follow or temporarily closed. Expect brush and spiky plants, creek crossings, and active bear habitat. Verify current road and trail status before you go and carry offline maps/GPS.
