Sunset Trail

Overview

This is a shady, history-rich forest walk that trades the General Grant Tree crowds for quiet groves and a mellow adventure. The most popular way to experience it is a 7.5-mile total loop from the Grant Grove area to Sequoia Lake Overlook and Ella Falls, generally considered moderate with about 1,400 feet of gain. Expect a sustained descent out, a steady climb back, and far fewer people than on the paved paths nearby.

Route options

• Core loop: Grant Grove → Sequoia Lake Overlook → Ella Falls → return via Sunset Trail. About 7.5 miles total with ~1,400 feet of elevation gain. Counterclockwise is common and keeps the climb for later.
• Short family loop: North Grove + Sunset. About 1.7 miles total and gentle, with a partially paved stretch.
• Extended half-day: A bigger circuit (~9.9 miles, ~1,375 feet gain) by linking the Sunset Trail with the General Grant Loop, North Grove, and the Dead Giant Loop from the Visitor Center area.

What you’ll see

The North Grove delivers a more natural, less fenced experience with giant sequoias—some fire-scarred, some partially hollowed so you can actually pass through. The Dead Giant Loop features an enormous standing dead sequoia stump that really sells the scale. As you drop lower, you’ll walk sections of an abandoned, once-paved entrance road—yes, you can still feel the old pavement underfoot. Near the park boundary, a viewpoint looks west over private Sequoia Lake, and down at the loop’s low point you’ll find Ella Falls, a small cascade that can dwindle to a trickle late season.

Trail experience

Surfaces range from soft forest singletrack with roots and occasional downed trees to short paved bits if you include the General Grant area. A few stretches can be brushy—expect to brush past plants and plan tick protection. Wildlife sightings tend to be low-key; deer are commonly seen, especially at quieter hours. Compared to the General Grant Tree loop, this feels peaceful and unhurried.

Best time to hike

June through October is the sweet spot for snow-free travel on the lower sections. Start early for cool temps and solitude; the climb out can feel warm by midday. The Sequoia Lake Overlook faces west, so late-day light is best there. Don’t expect much from Ella Falls in late summer—go for the forest, history, and quiet.

Know before you go

Park at the large General Grant/Grant Grove trailhead area—parking is straightforward and restrooms are nearby. Carry a map and stick to signed, maintained park trails; some crowd-sourced routes toward the lake stray onto unmaintained paths and private property. Portions of the route are overgrown, and ticks are a thing—prep accordingly. Bear spray is not allowed in the parks, so follow food storage rules and standard wildlife etiquette. Hydrate, and plan that steady return climb.

Who it’s for

If you want a tranquil sequoia hike with variety—big trees, a historic road, a quiet overlook, and a small waterfall—this is a great half-day outing. Families and casual hikers can opt for the short North Grove + Sunset loop, while those hungry for more can tack on the Dead Giant Loop or the full extended circuit. If you want smooth, paved, and interpretive, the adjacent General Grant Loop is the easier win.