Pros & cons
PROS
- Photogenic cluster of four giant sequoias right off the main loop
- Easy to pair with Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree on a short hike
CONS
- Parking at the Welcome Plaza can fill by late morning
- In winter, reaching the grove adds a 4-mile round-trip approach
Overview
A tight-knit quartet of giant sequoias, the Bachelor and Three Graces is one of the most photogenic stops in Mariposa Grove. You’ll encounter it early on the Grizzly Giant Loop, making it a perfect “wow” moment without much effort. It’s not the largest set of trees in the grove, but the close grouping and clean sightlines make it a favorite for quick photos and scale shots.
Getting There
Park at the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza near the South Entrance and take the free seasonal shuttle to the Mariposa Grove Arrival Area. Private cars don’t drive into the grove. When shuttles aren’t running (roughly winter), reach the grove via a 2-mile hike each way on the Washburn Trail or the closed Mariposa Grove Road.
On the Trail
Follow the 2-mile Grizzly Giant Loop (about 1.5–2 hours, moderate) from the Arrival Area. The Bachelor and Three Graces sits along this loop en route to heavy-hitters like the Grizzly Giant and the California Tunnel Tree. If you’re feeling ambitious, the longer Mariposa Grove Trail to Wawona Point also passes this spot.
Why It’s Special
Giant sequoias are the largest trees on Earth by volume, with shallow, wide-spreading roots that interlock with neighbors. That makes staying on the trail especially important around closely grouped trees like these—stepping off compacts soil and stresses roots.
Amenities
Restrooms are available at the Welcome Plaza, the Mariposa Grove Arrival Area (flush in summer, vault in winter), and near the Grizzly Giant. Drinking water is at the Welcome Plaza year-round and at the Arrival Area in summer only. There’s no food service in the grove (plan snacks and water accordingly).
Best Time to Visit
- Early morning: Easiest parking and soft, side-lit trunks for photos.
- Midweek: Fewer hikers on the Grizzly Giant Loop.
- Winter: Expect snow and ice; the walk-in adds time and effort. Traction or snowshoes can be useful when trails are packed.
Etiquette & Stewardship
Stay on designated paths to protect the sequoias’ shallow roots. Pets aren’t allowed on any trails or roads in Mariposa Grove.
Where it is
37.5038, -119.6045Tips for Bachelor and Three Graces
- 01Start early; the Welcome Plaza lot can fill by late morning.
- 02Do the 2-mile Grizzly Giant Loop to link this stop with marquee trees.
- 03In winter, budget time for the 4-mile round-trip approach and bring traction.
- 04Carry water; refills are limited and seasonal at the Arrival Area.
- 05Stay on trail—sequoia roots are shallow and easily damaged.
Amenities
Near Bachelor and Three Graces
All places →All trails →
0.2 mi awayGrizzly GiantAncient sequoia icon with a dramatic lean on an easy loopRestroom · Parking
0.2 mi awayCalifornia Tunnel TreeA living sequoia you can walk through on the Grizzly Giant LoopRestroom · Parking
0.3 mi awayFallen MonarchPhotogenic fallen sequoia with massive exposed rootsExhibit · Restroom
0.4 mi awayGrizzly Giant Loop TrailShort sequoia loop to the storied Grizzly Giant and tunnel treeEasy · 2 mi · 1.5 hr
0.4 mi awayLower Mariposa Grove TrailGiant sequoias greatest hits on an easy, photogenic loopEasy · 2.6 mi · 1.5 hr
0.4 mi awayMariposa Grove TrailSequoia showcase to Wawona Point with classic giant-tree stopsModerate · 7 mi · 5 hr
0.4 mi awayMariposa Grove Trail to Wawona PointGiant sequoias to a sweeping Wawona Point panoramaChallenging · 7 mi · 5 hr
0.4 mi awayFaithful Couple TreeTwo giant sequoias fused at the base, a romantic Upper Grove stop
