California, Hiking Trails, National Parks, The Mountains

Hiking to Moro Rock in Sequoia National Park

Moro Rock trail is one of the most unique and awe-inspiring hikes within all of the California State Parks.

And it happens to be in one of the most beautiful parts of California – Sequoia National Park.

With its intense height, stunning mountain views and amazing scenery, it would be a shame to miss out on this part of the park.

I learned some useful information during my visit so continue reading below for how to access the trail, what to expect on the hike, history of Moro Rock, lookout points and making it to the top!

Accessing the Trail

As you enter the park from the Three Rivers entrance, continue making your way up Generals Hwy. You’ll see a giant granite rock or dome looming above you.

The entrance to Moro Rock is only accessible during the summer and autumn months. It is not accessible during the winter, and spring because the region is subject to weather and snow. Check the National Parks Service for updates on road closures.

The alternate entrance when the road is closed, is to take the Moro Rock trail.

It’s about a mile or so of easy walking and a fantastic way to see more giant Sequoia’s that live throughout this region of the forest.

If the roads are closed, you can find the entrance to Moro Rock Trail near the Giant Forest Museum Parking lot. Just look for this sign below:

Beginning the Hike

The journey up the granite carved stairs is about 350 steps total and a half a mile roundtrip – so a very short distance overall.

However keep in mind that the air is thin up here, so even a simple climb like this can be more difficult than you might realize.

Remember to bring lots of water and keep your kids close (if you dared to bring them!).

History of Moro Rock

Moro Rock became one of the park’s first major attractions back in the early 1900s. It was always of interest to climb back then, but the wooden steps that elevated 300 ft. were dangerous, fragile and expensive to repair.

By the 1930’s, two men were assigned the task to plan and arrange a permanent solution. They needed to design a stairway for allowing casual visitors to safely summit the rock.

Steps were constructed along the ledges and fissures of the rock instead of running straight up the north ridge. Mostly made of concrete, they made it look as though it was built into the rock itself.

This article here was a very interesting historical description of how Moro Rock came to be.

Look Out Points

As you make your way up the stairs, there are plenty of great look-out points that direct outwards from each right and left side of the dome.

At no point did I feel unsafe due to the railing, heights, or people however I would not recommend taking small children with you to the top.

From the right, you will see the Sequoia park valley and the windy road you had to take to get up to the Sequoias.

Looking out to your left (image above and below), you will see The Great Western Divide; a set of snowy-top mountain ranges of multiple peaks that reach up to 13,000 ft.

@ashleykchristian Afraid of heights anyone?📍 #mororock #sequoia #sequoianationalpark #sequoianationalforest ♬ spirit lead me where my trust is without borders - Raspo

I noticed a few people taking “mental breaks“ during their climb. But as someone who is slightly height-fearful, I was able to surpass most of the scary edges just fine.

Please note to always stay on the path and never step over the railing, and if snow or ice are present, then do not climb up the stairs.

It is unfortunately commonly known for people to get struck by lightning here.

The Summit

The last push towards the summit of Moro Rock is slightly narrow but worth the view.

Sometimes it can get crowded at the top, which is a little un-nerving. But don’t allow this to make you turn around anytime sooner; get your picture!

Moro Rock is one of the most special, unique and fun trails I have ever been on. The air is thin but the views are grand.

After soaking in all the surrounding beauty, it’s just an easy walk back down the stairway and straight to the packing lot (and don’t forget to make a trip to see one the largest trees in the world, General Sherman).

An amazing historical adventure that undoubtedly makes the list for my top 10 favorite California destinations.

If you are interested in more information on Sequoia National Park, check out my blog on the top 3 destinations to visit within the park (one of which is Moro Rock of course!).