Trails & More

As you enjoy your adventures throughout the park, notice the pinecones and wildlife. Each is important to the natural cycle of the forest and must be left as found.

Hiking- There are two main hiking areas to view giant sequoias- the North Grove with a level, 1.7 mile loop and optional moderate Overlook trail and the South Grove area with the moderate 5.5 mile South Grove trail and the moderate 2.5 mile Bradley Grove. Other trails cross other natural features found in the park, such as unique geology along the Lava Bluffs trail and access to the Stanislaus via the River Canyon trail. 

Biking - Bicycles are allowed along paved roads and fire roads. Fire roads are as wide as a regular road, have a gate, and are dirt-covered. Dozens of miles of fire roads are found along the Parkway Road, by the South Grove, and in the North Grove area. 

Picnicking - Designated picnic areas are located alongside the Stanislaus River, in the North Grove, Oak Leaf Spring, and Beaver Creek areas.

Fishing - The Stanislaus River and Beaver Creek offer good fishing, particularly for rainbow trout. A valid California fishing license is required for anglers 16 and over.

Wildlife - Opportunities for wildlife observation are abundant in the park. Bird species include pileated woodpeckers, northern flickers, Steller’s jays, and darkeyed juncos. Raccoons, foxes, porcupines, chipmunks, chickarees, and flying squirrels are among the native animals. Black bears, bobcats, and coyotes are sometimes seen.

All Other Trails 

River Canyon Trail

This is a very strenuous hike into and out of the Stanislaus River Canyon. The hike is 8 miles round-trip, with an elevation change of over 1,000 feet. On summer afternoons this south-facing slope can be very warm.

There are three ways to access the trail. You may begin this trail from the River Picnic Area, Scenic Overlook parking, or North Grove Trail just past marker #2. At the far end of the Scenic Overlook parking lot, you will find a restroom, a display describing the trail, and access to the rest of the trail. From here, you will descend 1,000 feet over 3 miles to the Stanislaus River. From there, you will retrace your steps, traveling 3 miles and ascending 1,000 feet back up again to the Scenic Overlook. You can always do the climb first by starting at the River Picnic Area. This will allow you to enjoy the river after your hike.

Be sure you are physically able to do this hike and carry plenty of drinking water. There is no trail guide for this trail, but it is shown on the park brochure. If you decide to walk back along the park road, be aware that it is longer and just as hot. Watch for vehicle and bike traffic. Allow 4–6 hours.

Lava Bluffs Trail

 This 2.5 mile lollipop trail will take you through varied environments, across a volcanic formation, and along a historic water ditch. This diverse area hosts the park’s most colorful spring wildflower displays and excellent birdwatching.

There are many steep sections along this trail, including some with difficult footing. The trail follows a south-facing slope and can be very hot in the summer. It can be enjoyed more in the spring or fall rather than on hot summer afternoons. This is the only trail in the park with poison oak.

The trail begins at the Lava Bluffs parking area, about 5 miles from the park entrance on the main park road. Allow 2–3 hours and bring plenty of water.

Meadow Walk

The boardwalk that crosses the meadow gives you some options on where to walk. It is a short hike but full of flowers with bees, bumblebees and dragonflies. Birds are also easy to see. If you are lucky, you may see a praying mantis. Please remember that dogs or bikes are not allowed on the boardwalk. It is important that you stay on the boardwalk and not trample the meadow.

Fire/Dirt Roads

 You are welcome to hike or bike ride on any of the park’s fire/dirt roads. All are shown on the park brochure map. Dogs on leash are allowed on these roads as well.