Moro Rock: A Prominent Granite Dome in Sequoia National Park
- Stephen Warner
- May 27, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 2
While the giant Sequoia trees often steal the show, Sequoia National Park is full of lesser-known natural wonders and Moro Rock is one of them. This short but striking climb up a staircase carved into a granite dome delivers huge views for relatively little effort. If you're looking for a hike that packs a scenic punch without taking up your whole day, this is it.
Trail Info
Trailhead Name | Moro Rock Trail |
Distance | Moro Rock Lot: 0.5 miles / 0.8 km out and back Giant Forest Museum: 3.8 miles / 6.1 km out and back |
Estimated time | Moro Rock Lot: 30 mins - 1 hour Giant Forest Museum: 1.5 - 3 hours |
Elevation gain | Moro Rock Lot: 300 ft / 91 m Giant Forest Museum: 450 ft / 140 m |
Highest point | 6,275 ft / 2,050 m (Moro Rock) |
Permits / fees | National Park fee |
Parking | Paved lot |
Toilets? | Yes |
Dog friendly? | No (prohibited) |
Know before you go
Parking is limited at the Moro Rock trailhead and fills quickly. On summer weekends, the access road closes to private vehicles—so you’ll need to take the park shuttle.
Winter access is possible but trickier. If the road is closed, you’ll need gear like snowshoes or cross-country skis depending on snow conditions.
The trail has steep drop-offs, but there are barriers throughout. While generally safe, some barriers could be bypassed—something to keep in mind if hiking with small kids.
Altitude comes into play during this hike. At over 6,000 feet, this steep (but short) climb may feel tougher than you'd expect, especially if you’re coming from sea level. Take your time.
Other trails nearby
There are several other short granite dome hikes in the area including:
Distance: 1.6 miles (2.6 km)
Elevation gain: 400 ft (120 m ) gain
Details: A mellow out-and-back from the museum with a quiet overlook and fewer crowds
Distance: 0.3 miles (0.5 km)
Elevation gain: flat.
Details: Short spur trail off the main loop. Leads to a rocky outcrop with great sunset views
Distance: 0.5 miles (0.8 km)
Elevation gain: 100 ft (30 m) gain.
Details: Short detour with interpretive signs.
The Trail
When I visited in mid-April, the road to the main Moro Rock parking lot was closed, so I started from the Giant Forest Museum, adding a few miles to the adventure. Honestly, it was a bonus. The forested trail leading to Moro Rock was peaceful and beautiful, and navigation was easy: just follow the signs
The trees and foliage along this trail were simply stunning.
Once you reach the Moro Rock parking area, the real climb begins. From there, it’s a 300-foot / 100m ascent up the granite dome via a winding staircase.
I had the trail entirely to myself on a crisp April day, which made the experience feel even more special. Without the crowds, I could really appreciate the incredible infrastructure that makes this hike possible.
The stairs narrow a bit in spots, but sturdy barriers line the path. At times, I felt like I was ascending a castle’s battlements.
The final stretch almost felt like walking along the spine of some ancient, stony creature.
Summit reached! The panoramic views are incredible. Info panels help you identify what you're looking at, from the Kaweah River to Triple Divide Peak and Lion Rock.
🎥 Check out this POV video of the final approach to the summit!
I'd say this shot sums up how I felt on top of this rock!
SS Reflections
Moro Rock turned out to be one of my favorite hikes in Sequoia. Standing solo atop that granite dome, gazing out at wave after wave of Sierra peaks, I felt such a rare and peaceful calm. Honestly, I’m not sure I would’ve enjoyed it as much if I’d been there on a packed summer day. Just goes to show, timing really is everything.
Other helpful resources
NPS webpage with a description of the hike
For the love of wanderlust's detailed post about their hike with kids