Sugar Bowl Trail

Overview

This is Redwood Canyon’s signature loop: 6.5–6.7 miles total with about 1,480–1,500 feet of gain. It’s a moderate circuit that rewards with solitude, ridge views, and a walk through the “Sugar Bowl,” an unusually pure stand of giant sequoias. Redwood Canyon contains one of the largest continuous sequoia grove complexes, and this loop showcases both the high, drier ridge and the shady, creek-lined canyon floor.

Route Highlights

Start from the Redwood Canyon parking area and take the Sugar Bowl trail on the right. You’ll climb for roughly 1.5–2 miles onto the Redwood Mountain ridge, with intermittent overlooks and classic Sierra granite around you. From the ridge, descend into the Sugar Bowl—a dense gathering of mature and young sequoias—before switchbacking down to Redwood Creek. Turn left to follow the gentle up-canyon grade back toward the trailhead along a lush corridor of willows and dogwoods.

Conditions You Should Expect

Fire has been a regular and sometimes intense presence here. Expect burn scars, regeneration zones packed with sequoia saplings, and, in recent seasons, stretches that are brushy, overgrown, or have faint tread—especially on the Sugar Bowl side. Long pants are smart, and offline maps help in charred or overgrown sections. Some ascents can be steep with loose rock. Bears frequent the area; keep all food and scented items secured and use any bear lockers at the lot if available. Bear spray is not allowed in these parks.

Access and Closures

The trailhead sits at the end of a 2-mile unpaved spur off Highway 180. The road can be rough after storms and is closed to vehicles in winter. Recent reports have noted gates, partial closures, or limited access at times—do not bypass closures; verify current status before you go. If the gate is closed, you may have to walk the road to reach the trailhead.

Why Hike It (and When)

If you’re after big trees without big crowds, this loop delivers, and the Sugar Bowl’s concentrated sequoias are a standout experience. Late spring through fall is best: early June brings wildflowers and a lively creek; mid to late October can show off dogwood and black oak color if timing aligns. Go early for cooler temps and softer light along the ridge, then enjoy shaded walking in the canyon on the return.

Practical Notes

• Day hiking here typically does not require a permit; overnighting in Redwood Canyon does.
• Pets are not allowed on this trail.
• The park entrance fee applies.
• Wildlife is active; you may even encounter cattle that wander in from adjacent grazing allotments—give them space.

If You Want More (Or An Alternate)

For a bigger day, you can combine loops on the Redwood Mountain circuit. If conditions on Sugar Bowl are too overgrown, consider the Hart Tree/Fallen Goliath side instead—when open—for a different slice of Redwood Canyon’s sequoias.