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The drive down the dirt road is great for the last half mile, as it
passes directly under some towering sequoias. Pop open the sunroof and
enjoy. This gives you a precursor of things to come, as even the parking
lot has great views of sequoias.
Massive sequoia next to the parking lot
There were about 10 cars in the lot as we got a late start, nearly 2pm.
There was plenty of space in the lot, though. There are two trails that
start here. We took the left trail, heading down toward the Hart Tree
and Redwood Canyon.
The trail immediately passes several beautiful sequoia trees, their
distinctive bark glowing in the afternoon light. We slowly descended
as we admired the forest. This is a much different experience than places
like the General Grant Trail, or the Congress Trail, where you find yourself
elbowing tourists who might have just gotten off a bus for a day trip.
Partly because it's more obscure, and perhaps partly because of the dirt
road, you'll find much more peace and solitude here.
Sequoias near the start of the hike
After a brief descent, we came to the first trail intersection. To the left,
the trail continues on to the Hart Tree. We took the right fork, which
roughly parallels Redwood Creek. This part of the trail is mostly typical
Sierra forest, with some intermittent views of sequoias - both standing
and fallen. One of the most impressive sights are the huge fallen sequoias
you'll see on or near the trail.
Fallen sequoia
After a long descent, we reached the second intersection, which is a
confluence of three trails -- the one we were on, the Hart Tree trail, and
the trail heading right from the parking lot. Just beyond this intersection
is a group of about 10 large sequoias right next to each other. Just beyond
that is a creek crossing. We crossed the creek (over a large fallen tree)
and settled down onto a small beach on the other side to relax.
Sequoia base near the creek crossing
Ladybug!
While we were there, we saw several groups of hikers come from the Hart Trail,
asking us how to get back to the trailhead. We directed them across the creek
and onto the trail we'd just taken. Meanwhile, we enjoyed the waters of
the creek before heading back the way we came.
Sequoias near the trail intersection
Quiet forest
After all that descent, you pay for it by having to climb up all the way
back to the trailhead. If you can, I would time this hike so that you finish
in the late afternoon. One of my favorite sights is sequoias glistening
in late afternoon sun, and I was not disappointed as we neared the sequoias
near the start of the trail.
Sequoias intermingled with other conifers
Sequoias glistening in the afternoon sun
More glistening
By the time we returned to the parking lot, all the other cars were gone.
But we could still enjoy the sequoias from the lot, and looked forward to
seeing the ones visible on the drive back up, as well.
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