Log Meadow

Serene meadow loop with bears and Tharp’s historic sequoia log cabin

InsideSequoia National Park

Overview

Log Meadow is the quieter twin to Crescent Meadow—a broad, sunlit clearing rimmed by giant sequoias, with easy loops and a strong chance of wildlife sightings. The star is Tharp’s Log, a pioneer-era cabin built into a hollow sequoia, which makes this stop feel equal parts nature walk and living history.

What You’ll See

Tharp’s Log: a unique cabin-in-a-log that brings the early grazing history of the area to life.
Meadow edges and towering sequoias: classic Giant Forest scenery without much effort.
Frequent wildlife: black bears and mule deer commonly graze the meadows at dawn and dusk.
Fire-sculpted trees like the Chimney Tree and other photogenic snags in the area.

Choose Your Loop

Short sampler (about 1.8 miles, ~200–250 ft gain): From Crescent Meadow, use the High Sierra Trail segment to reach Tharp’s Log, then connect via Chimney Tree and back along Crescent Meadow.
Longer wander (about 2.3 miles, ~250 ft gain): Adds Huckleberry Meadow, the west side of Log Meadow, Squatter’s Cabin, and the “Dead Giant,” with a brief road walk at the end.

Trails are well signed from the Crescent Meadow trailhead. A spur path leads directly to Tharp’s Log, and multiple junctions let you extend to neighboring meadows if you’re feeling curious.

Wildlife & Etiquette

Black bears are often out in the open here. Enjoy the view from a distance, give animals room to move, and never feed or approach them. Stay on established trails and boardwalks—the grassy edges are fragile and easily damaged.

Practicalities

Facilities are at Crescent Meadow (the access point for Log Meadow): vault toilets, parking, and picnic tables. Bring your own water—there are no water taps and no grills.
In summer, parking fills fast. Use the free park shuttle to avoid the headache.
Roads to this area can close due to snow in winter; tire chains may be required when conditions warrant.

Best Time to Visit

Dawn and pre‑dusk: best wildlife activity and soft, side‑lit photography across the meadow.
June–July: peak wildflowers around the meadow edges.
Midweek is calmer than weekends; arrive early or late to sidestep crowds in summer.

Nearby Add‑Ons

If you have extra energy, pair Log Meadow with Moro Rock for a quick stair‑climb and big Sierra views—an easy one‑two that showcases both the forest and the high country.