Last updated: April 30, 2024
Thing to Do
View Sunset from Sunset Rock
This easy trail leads through a mixed-conifer forest of red firs, Jeffrey pines, sugar pines, and incense cedars to a large granite dome. Once there, take a seat on the dome and enjoy the sweeping views of a deep canyon that was carved by the Kaweah River. If you're there for sunset, sit back and enjoy the colorful show! When finished, return on the same trail back to the Giant Forest Museum.
This easy,1.4-mile round-trip trail starts at the Giant Forest Museum. In summer, parking is very limited, so we suggest taking the free Sequoia Shuttle to the Giant Forest Museum. Check the park newspaper for shuttle routes and locations.
Details
Duration
1-2 Hours
Activity
Hiking
Pets Allowed
No
Please be aware that pets are not permitted on any trails at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. However, leashed pets are allowed to be walked in developed areas like campgrounds, picnic areas, and along roads that are open to vehicle traffic.
Qualified ADA-defined service dogs are allowed on trails in national parks. Dogs whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the ADA. For more information about ADA service animal requirements, please go to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) website.
Qualified ADA-defined service dogs are allowed on trails in national parks. Dogs whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the ADA. For more information about ADA service animal requirements, please go to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) website.
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Giant Forest, Sequoia National Park
The Sunset Rock Trail starts at the Giant Forest Museum, in the Giant Forest within Sequoia National Park.
You can drive to the Giant Forest in Sequoia National Park from two different directions. From the north, take Highway 180 east to Grant Grove, and then take the Generals Highway to the Giant Forest. From the south, take Highway 198 east to Foothills, and then take the Generals Highway to the Giant Forest. Once there, drive to the Giant Forest Museum and take the Crescent Meadow/Moro Rock road to the Crescent Meadow parking area.
During the summer, parking is extremely limited. We suggest taking the free Sequoia Shuttle to the Giant Forest Museum. Check the park newspaper for shuttle routes and locations.
You can drive to the Giant Forest in Sequoia National Park from two different directions. From the north, take Highway 180 east to Grant Grove, and then take the Generals Highway to the Giant Forest. From the south, take Highway 198 east to Foothills, and then take the Generals Highway to the Giant Forest. Once there, drive to the Giant Forest Museum and take the Crescent Meadow/Moro Rock road to the Crescent Meadow parking area.
During the summer, parking is extremely limited. We suggest taking the free Sequoia Shuttle to the Giant Forest Museum. Check the park newspaper for shuttle routes and locations.
Reservations
No
Season
Summer, Fall
The Sunset Rock Trail can be hiked throughout the year, but we recommend hiking this trail in the summer or fall. Icy conditions and deep snow can be present in winter and early spring.
Time of Day
Day, Dawn, Dusk
If you choose to hike this trail for sunset, please bring along a flashlight or headlamp. If you are hiking this trail after dark, you may not find the trail easily without light.
Accessibility Information
This is an unpaved dirt trail consisting of uneven terrain.
There is no parking at the trailhead, but paved paths from various parking areas lead to it. Some paths contain rock steps. General parking is available across the street from the Giant Forest Museum, and is the closest to the trailhead. Accessible parking is available next to the Giant Forest Museum and at the Big Trees Trailhead.
There is no parking at the trailhead, but paved paths from various parking areas lead to it. Some paths contain rock steps. General parking is available across the street from the Giant Forest Museum, and is the closest to the trailhead. Accessible parking is available next to the Giant Forest Museum and at the Big Trees Trailhead.