I don’t usually like revisiting somewhere I’ve already been but Sequoia National Park is one of the few I will. Full of thousand-year-old trees holding the record for the largest in diameter, the entire area is a nature-lover’s dream. Since the park sits at an elevation of 7,000 feet or higher, it offers multiple high-climbing treks to supply visitors with epic surrounding views of those Sierra Nevadas. The hike up to Moro Rock is one of the best hikes in Sequoia National Park.
What is Moro Rock?
Rising 6,725 feet above sea level, this monstrous granite dome is the focal point of the Crescent Meadow area. Entering Sequoia from the south on Generals Highway, you can see Moro Rock hanging over the cliff’s edge above.
You can find the road to Moro Rock in the Giant Forest area of Sequoia by either driving to the trailhead or parking at the museum and riding the free shuttle. Note that during summer and on weekends, the road closes to vehicles. During this time, the only way of reaching Moro Rock is via the free shuttle. In the winter, the road and trail up to Moro Rock are closed.
Check the NPS website here for any alerts or current info for Sequoia National Park
Moro Rock Climbing Details
Although it sits at a high elevation, you only have to climb the remaining 300 feet to the summit of Moro Rock. The 0.5 mile roundtrip trail up to the peak is comprised of over 350 steps. The route is out and back and paved the entire way.
With the high elevation gain in a short distance, the trail to the top is definitely not for the faint of heart. Criss-crossing between boulders and along narrow ledges may scare those who have a fear of heights. If you make it to the top though, it will be the highlight of your time in Sequoia.
Read More: The Best of Sequoia National Park
Hiking Up Moro Rock
Distance: 0.5 Miles
Type: Out & Back
Elevation Gain: +999 Feet
At first, the trail doesn’t seem too intimidating with the wide-set stairwell leading upwards. Almost instantly, the peaks of the Sierra Nevadas come into view and continue on with the climb. The stairwell begins to narrow but the handrails definitely aid in that wobbly-leg feeling of being so high.
Check out other things to see in do in Sequoia NP here!
Moro Rock is normally very crowded unless you visit in the early morning. Be sure to allow hikers to pass when you get an opportunity for a ‘pull-off.’ The route upwards begins on the east side of Moro Rock then twists under some boulders to display the west side view.
A few informational signs exist along the way, supplying us all with a much-needed short break. Stopping to stare off into the distance every once in a while is a must for an adjustment to the thinning air.
Looking for another hike in Sequoia NP? Check out my favorite here!
Reaching the Summit
After a bit more than 350 steps uphill, the peak of Moro Rock comes into view. And what a sight it is, right? The handrails extend out further onto the top of the granite dome to expand those epic panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
After spending some time floating above Sequoia, retreat back on the trail to head downwards. I like to think I descent confidently now after that heck of a climb!
Read More National Park Posts HereBefore heading out on the trail, it’s imperative that you’re familiar with the “Leave No Trace” principles.
Read More: Leave No Trace: The 7 Rules of the Backcountry
Learn more about Leave No Trace on their website here.
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