Pros & cons
PROS
- Meaningful Black history site named by Charles Young in 1903
- Quick roadside stop near Auto Log in the Giant Forest
CONS
- No facilities at the tree
- Crescent Meadow Road has seasonal closures and peak-time vehicle restrictions
Overview
A quiet, meaningful stop in the Giant Forest, the Booker T. Washington Tree honors educator Booker T. Washington—named in 1903 by then–Captain Charles Young, who led the Buffalo Soldiers here that summer. The site faded from memory for decades until it was relocated and rededicated in 2003. It’s simple, understated, and worth a pause for the story it represents.
Don’t Mix It Up
This is not the larger, damaged “Washington Tree” named for George Washington. The Booker T. Washington Tree is a different sequoia with its own history and dedication.
Where It Is and What to Expect
You’ll find it along Crescent Meadow Road between Moro Rock and Crescent Meadow, just about 0.1 mile north of the Auto Log parking area. There’s a small roadside pullout and a very short, roughly 70‑foot walk to the sign and trunk view. Think quick photo stop rather than a destination hike.
Parking and Facilities
There are no amenities at the tree itself. Use the small pullout if open; otherwise, park at Auto Log and walk a short stretch along the road. Nearest restrooms are at Moro Rock and Crescent Meadow, with additional facilities at Giant Forest Museum. Expect seasonal restroom closures along the road in late fall and winter.
Seasonal Access and Shuttles
Crescent Meadow Road typically opens from late May to early November, snow permitting. In peak season (late May–early September), the road is closed to private vehicles on weekends and holidays from mid‑morning into late afternoon. When it’s closed, park at Giant Forest Museum and take the shuttle to the Moro Rock stop or walk the road. In winter, reaching the area requires hiking, snowshoeing, or skiing.
Pair It With
Combine this quick stop with Auto Log next door, plus Moro Rock and Crescent Meadow down the same road. If you want a longer stroll among giants afterward, the Congress Trail near the General Sherman Tree is a solid add‑on.
Best Time to Visit
- Weekdays during the road’s open season for easy pullout parking.
- Early or late in the day to dodge shuttle crowds on summer weekends and holidays.
- Winter only if you’re prepared to hike or snow travel the closed road.
Where it is
36.5576, -118.7708Tips for Booker T. Washington Tree
- 01Look for the small sign about 0.1 mile north of Auto Log along Crescent Meadow Road.
- 02If the pullout is full, park at Auto Log and walk a short distance along the road.
- 03On summer weekends and holidays, park at Giant Forest Museum and use the shuttle to the Moro Rock stop.
- 04In winter, expect to hike or snowshoe the closed road to reach the tree.
Amenities
Near Booker T. Washington Tree
All places →All trails →
0.2 mi awayColonel Young TreeShort, meaningful stop honoring a pioneering park superintendentParking
0.2 mi awayAuto LogHistoric fallen sequoia you can still walk alongParking · Exhibit
0.5 mi awaySentinel TreeA photogenic giant sequoia steps from the Giant Forest MuseumParking · Exhibit
0.5 mi awayGiant Forest MuseumSmart first stop for sequoias, trails, and ranger know-howExhibit · Restroom
0.5 mi awayGiant Forest Loop TrailBig tree sampler linking Sherman, Congress, meadows, and quiet grovesModerate · 7.6 mi · 3.5 hr
0.5 mi awayRimrock TrailBig sequoias and quiet stretches on the smartest Giant Forest loopModerate · 6 mi · 3 hr
0.5 mi awayTrail of the SequoiasQuieter Giant Forest route threading meadows, giants, and history.Easy · 2.8 mi · 1.5 hr
0.5 mi awayBeetle Rock TrailZero-effort granite perch with big Sierra foothill viewsEasy · 0.3 mi · 15 min
