Thing to Do

Crescent Meadow Road Winter Trail

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

Snowy conditions on a large granite dome.
The trail to the top of Moro Rock is not safe in winter and should not be ascended if there is ice.

NPS / Rick Cain

The most popular of the Giant Forest’s ski trails, Crescent Meadow Road begins at the west end of the Giant Forest Museum Plaza. The entire route is an unplowed road with gentle to moderate grades and lots of giant sequoias. From the museum to the junction with the Moro Rock Loop, the Crescent Meadow Road is 1.2 miles in length.

From this junction, one may continue 1.3 miles or take the one-mile loop to the base of Moro Rock. The route to Moro and Crescent is not marked but is easily followed on the unplowed road. The trail to the top of Moro Rock is not safe in winter and should not be ascended if there is ice or snow on the rock or the stairs, or during heavy snow periods.

Trail Information

  • Trailhead: Giant Forest Museum to Crescent Meadow
  • Distance: 3.4 miles (5.4 km) one way
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Elevation Gain/Loss: 769 ft / 552 ft
  • Approximate Round Trip: 3 – 4 hours
For a complete map of winter trails, check out our Park Newspaper. For more detailed trail information, please visit our Maps page.
Details
The duration will vary depending on fitness level, snow conditions, and length of time spent at trail features.
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
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Trailhead begins on Crescent Meadow Road next to the accessible parking at the Giant Forest Museum.
Reservations
No
Accessibility Information

General parking is available across the street from the Giant Forest Museum. Accessible parking is available next to the Giant Forest Museum and at the Big Trees Trailhead. Accessible restrooms are available at the Giant Forest Museum.

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

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Caution

Although this trail goes along a paved road, it is not clearly designated with route markers. We highly recommend carrying a map while going on this hike.

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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Last updated: December 20, 2024