Tharp's Log

Pioneer cabin carved into a fallen sequoia beside Log Meadow

InsideSequoia National Park

Overview

Tharp's Log is exactly what it sounds like: a summer cabin carved into a fallen, fire-hollowed giant sequoia. It sits at the edge of Log Meadow in the Giant Forest and gives you that perfect mix of human history and big-tree wonder without much effort.

Why It’s Special

Hale Tharp turned a 70-foot hollow sequoia into a livable cabin, adding a shingled front room, a granite stone fireplace and chimney, a carved window with a horseshoe-hinged shutter, and simple slab furniture. John Muir called it a “noble den,” and it still feels that way—carbon-lined walls, meadow views, and the smell of sequoia duff. There are a few benches for a quick sit and soak-it-in moment.

How to Visit

Start at the Crescent Meadow parking area and follow the Crescent Meadow Loop to the signed Tharp’s Log spur; it’s about 0.8 miles one way on easy terrain. Crescent Meadow Road typically opens late spring through fall, but in peak season (especially summer weekends and holidays) it often closes to private cars during the day—use the free in-park shuttle or arrive early.

Wildlife & Setting

Log Meadow is prime for black bears, mule deer, marmots, and birdlife. You’re skirting a lush meadow bordered by colossal sequoias, so keep your distance, secure any food at trailheads, and bring your camera for soft meadow light.

A Bite of History

Guided by Monache/Yokuts people in 1858, Tharp grazed cattle in the meadows and used the log as a summer home until the park was established in 1890. The site was restored in 1923, cleaned up again by the CCC in 1936, and later listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977.

Best Time to Visit

Early morning: Quieter trails, wildlife is more active, and beautifully angled light across the meadow.
Late afternoon: Warm, soft light and fewer crowds as day-trippers peel off.

Peak summer can be busy—plan on the shuttle and aim for off-peak hours for breathing room and better photos.

Preserve the Place

Please stay on trail, don’t climb on or into the log, and resist touching fittings or carving—this is a fragile historic structure that relies on all of us to last.

Pros

One-of-a-kind pioneer cabin built inside a giant sequoia log
Easy, scenic ~0.8-mile walk from Crescent Meadow
Great meadow views with a decent chance of spotting wildlife

Cons

No facilities at the site; restrooms are back at Crescent Meadow
Summer weekends/holidays are often shuttle-only and parking fills early

Tips

Start from Crescent Meadow and follow the loop to the signed spur; it’s about 0.8 miles one way.
On summer weekends and holidays, plan on using the free shuttle to reach Crescent Meadow.
Use the vault toilets at Crescent Meadow; there’s no water or restroom at the log.
Go early or late for softer light, fewer crowds, and better wildlife viewing.
Do not climb into or on the log—help preserve this rare historic structure.