Place · 0.2 mi away
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.
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
Tips
- Start early; the Welcome Plaza lot can fill by late morning.
- Do the 2-mile Grizzly Giant Loop to link this stop with marquee trees.
- In winter, budget time for the 4-mile round-trip approach and bring traction.
- Carry water; refills are limited and seasonal at the Arrival Area.
- Stay on trail—sequoia roots are shallow and easily damaged.
