Tough to appreciate the size because there are SO many enormous Sequoias and Redwoods in the same area. If you walk down from the upper (non-handicapped) parking, make sure to walk along the entire boarded walkway as this offers better far-shot views and includes a few additional massive trees. There are many, many large trees in the area, but only one 'largest', and it is your DUTY to visit the largest if possible. Note that the drive from the SW park entrance (coming from Visalia) is significant in distance, pace, scenery and white-knuckledness...it may only be 20 or so miles, but there are A LOT of switch-backs and it is a two lane road, so anyone that is a nervous driver will reduce the pace to 10-15 mph for a good portion.The views are spectacular on the drive, so make a point to pull over a few times and let the traffic subside (helps with the road rage as well).
This is a must see in the park! And yes, it's jaw-droppingly huge! Caution: the regular parking fills up quickly and that location is closest to The General. The ancillary parking requires lots of walking and stair-climbing at a high altitude....I found it more challenging than younger visitors did.
it's amazing to see the sequoias... the general sherman tree does not disappoint. it is huge. we had to keep backing up (a few hundred yards!) to get a picture of it top to bottom. the people look like ants! it truly is amazing. i am so glad i got to see it.
Not only is this this tree amazing and awe inspiring, but the entire forest is definitely worth the experience. General Sherman is billed as the largest living organism on earth, the top of the tree is dead from lightening strike, but it continues to grow in girth. Massive massive tree. The area around the tree is so peaceful and beautiful.There is very limited parking just near the tree and if you are wheelchair bound or have trouble walking it would be best to try to park there. If you don't mind a walk, there is the summer parking, which is up the hill. Bring your comfortable shoes, and some water with you as it is a walk. Once you've made it to Sherman, try the Congress trail, this is a serious walk and will take you past some more very impressive trees.
Sign sign everywhere a sign. The sign says sentinel not centennial. The sign says it is NOT the biggest or oldest. READ the signs!
Short hike - disabled or those unable to walk far can get to it. Wanted so badly to touch him but understand why it is fenced off. A phenomena of nature that all should see!
This was nice! to see the biggest living being in front of you was amazing. Probably this tree was here before Jesus born, do y imagine this?
Seeing this tree is worth every effort made to do so. There is handicap parking available at the foot of the trail, with a short walk to the tree, and it is accesable via wheelchair. the main parking lot is above the tree and a downhill walk to the tree and of course a hike back up the hill to return to the parking lot, but it is well worth the effoprt and the walk through the forest wether uphill or down is vey nice.
Discovering these big trees was a treat. They are truly giants and command a lot of respect for surviving weather, pests and fire for over 2000 years.
It is big. Really big. But it is also crowded so try going during the off season on a Tuesday. The hike is very short and doable.