Eagle View

Eagle View is a rocky-cliff overlook on the High Sierra Trail above Crescent Meadow in Giant Forest. The viewpoint is three-quarters of a mile from the parking area, with 280 feet of climbing. The payoff is a broad look across the Sequoia-Kings Canyon Wilderness and the high Sierra. I'd choose it for a big mountain view without committing to a long hike. Allow one to two hours for the outing if you turn around at the overlook.

The trail begins at the edge of Crescent Meadow in a shady sequoia grove, then climbs through forest toward the cliffs. Drive from Giant Forest Museum along Crescent Meadow/Moro Rock Road to the parking area. Summer parking is extremely limited; the free seasonal Sequoia Shuttle is an alternative when it is running.

The path is unpaved dirt with uneven, rocky footing, so this is not a wheelchair-accessible trail. Crescent Meadow has accessible parking spaces, though they have significant slopes, and accessible vault toilets. Both are at the trailhead. Dogs are not allowed on park trails, except qualified ADA service dogs.

The view opens over forested slopes to the high Sierra and the Sequoia-Kings Canyon Wilderness. For a phone photo, include a little of the rocky edge or the pine tops in the foreground; it gives the wide mountain view a sense of depth instead of leaving only a thin skyline.

Marmots, mule deer and birds may appear along the High Sierra Trail. Bright-red Applegate's paintbrush has also been reported flowering along this stretch among other seasonal wildflowers. Bloom timing varies, and wildlife is never guaranteed.