Clothespin Tree

Overview

A standout of Mariposa Grove’s Upper Grove, the Clothespin Tree is a giant sequoia whose trunk was naturally hollowed by multiple fires into a tall, clothespin-shaped opening—about 40 feet high. Unlike the historic, human-cut tunnel tree nearby, this one was sculpted by nature and has never been used for vehicles. The opening’s size also means the tree is structurally stressed, so admire it from the established trail and tread lightly.

Where It Is and What You’ll See

You’ll encounter the Clothespin Tree along the Mariposa Grove Trail as you continue beyond the Grizzly Giant area into the Upper Grove. Many hikers link it with other headliners—Bachelor & Three Graces and the Faithful Couple—and often carry on to Wawona Point for a full-day outing. Expect several hours on trail to include it.

Getting There

Most visitors park at the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza near the South Entrance and ride the free seasonal shuttle to the Arrival Area in the Lower Grove. When shuttles aren’t running (often winter and sometimes early spring), you’ll hike about two miles via the Washburn Trail or the closed road just to reach the grove before continuing up-trail. Vehicles with a disability placard may be allowed up the Mariposa Grove Road to a limited lot by the Grizzly Giant; from there the Clothespin Tree is farther uphill on foot. Bicycles are allowed on the road only as far as the Grizzly Giant and not on trails.

The Hike

The classic way to include the Clothespin Tree is the Mariposa Grove Trail—a roughly 7-mile round trip that climbs about 1,200 feet to Wawona Point and threads many of the grove’s star trees on the way. It’s a steady, sometimes demanding climb; plan time and energy accordingly, especially if you’re adding the approach hike when shuttles are offline.

Essentials: Water, Restrooms, and Services

There are no facilities at the Clothespin Tree. Fill bottles at the Welcome Plaza year-round and at the Arrival Area in summer. Restrooms are available at the Welcome Plaza, the Arrival Area (flush in summer; vault in winter), near Grizzly Giant (vault), and at the Mariposa Grove cabin (seasonal). There’s no food service in or around the grove—pack snacks and carry out all trash.

Photo Tips

A wide-angle lens helps capture the full height and the distinctive “clothespin” silhouette. Include a person in the frame for scale. Early or late light is most flattering in the grove’s filtered shade. Stay on the designated path and avoid touching the scarred bark—the tree is fragile.

Best Time to Visit

• Early morning: Best for easier parking at the Welcome Plaza and quieter trails before day-tripper crowds build.
• Summer and fall: Shuttles typically run and make access simpler; light is kinder early/late day.
• Winter and early spring: No shuttle; plan the added two-mile approach and potentially snowy or icy conditions. In spring shoulder season, shuttle operations can start later than expected—check status before you go.

Quick Context

Mariposa Grove packs a greatest-hits lineup of sequoias within a compact trail network. The Clothespin Tree stands out because its passageway was carved by wildfire over centuries, not by saws—an unforgettable demonstration of how these trees endure and adapt.