Last updated: December 20, 2024
Thing to Do
Alta Winter Trail
The Alta Trail descends nearly 1,000 feet from Wolverton to Giant Forest and connects with several other trails. From the western end of Wolverton parking area, ascend the ridge to the southwest. The ridge-top makes for an easy, one mile route to the junction with the Panther Trail. The route then plunges steeply down into Giant Forest, where it intersects the Crescent Trail at the McKinley Tree Trail Junction (1.5 miles from Panther Trail Junction). Below this junction the Alta Trail passes through some of the best of Giant Forest, and then makes another descent where it intersects with Bear Hill Trail. The trail ends 1.5 miles from the McKinley Tree Junction. This is a difficult ski with steep terrain and many trees.
Trail Information
- Trailhead: Wolverton parking area
- Distance: 6.2 miles (10 km) one way
- Difficulty: Hard
- Elevation Gain/Loss: 696 ft / 1505 ft
- Approximate Round Trip: 6 – 8 hours
Details
Duration
6-8 Hours
The duration will vary depending on fitness level, snow conditions, and length of time spent at trail features.
Activity
Cross-Country Skiing
This trail is designated as a cross-country ski trail, but can also be used for snowshoeing. Due to the snowy and icy conditions on the trail, hiking without traction devices is not recommended.
Pets Allowed
No
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Wolverton Parking Area
Trailhead begins at the western end of the Wolverton parking area.
Reservations
No
Accessibility Information
There are accessible parking spots and accessible flush toilets available at the Wolverton parking lot.
Route Marker Information
Trails that are buried under snow are very difficult to follow, so it is best to stick to trails marked for winter travel. Ski trails - open to skiing, snowshoe, and hiking - are marked by different symbols nailed to trees along their routes.
The route marker for the Alta winter trail is a yellow triangle with a symbol of a sequoia cone within it.
Caution
Please do not snowshoe or walk directly on ski tracks. The tread of snowshoes (or boots) can create divots and ruin carefully laid ski tracks, creating hazards for skiers. Skiers/snowshoers going uphill yield to those going downhill. Fill in depressions in the snow after falling to reduce hazards to others. Visit our Skiing and Snowshoeing page for safety tips, guidance, and snowshoe ranger program information.
More On Winter Trails in the Parks
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Skiing and SnowshoeingSki and snowshoe trails offer a way to travel through Giant Forest and Grant Grove in winter.
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Winter ActivitiesLearn about other winter activities in the parks.
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Grant Grove Winter TrailsLearn what winter trails are available in the Grant Grove area.