Come and see the largest tree (by volume) in the world! The General Sherman Tree is 274.9' (83.8 meters) tall, and 102.6' (31.3 meters) in circumference at its base. Other trees in the world are taller or have a greater circumference, but the General Sherman Tree wins by volume of wood, (52,500 cubic feet  or 1486.6 cubic meters).

There are many ways to get to the General Sherman Tree. In summer, take a free shuttle to this and other popular destinations in Sequoia National Park. Otherwise, there are two places to park, including a handicapped accessible parking lot. . 

• Main Sherman Tree Trail & Parking: Trail runs 1/2 mile down to the tree; it has some stairs. It is an uphill walk back to your car. Drive 2 miles (3.2 km) north of Giant Forest Museum (past the small Sherman Tree parking lot only for those with disabled placards) to Wolverton Road. Turn right, then follow signs. If you can walk down but the walk back up is too difficult, starting 5/26/11 you can continue from the tree down the accessible trail to the shuttle stop on the Generals Highway, and ride the northbound shuttle (toward Lodgepole) back to your car.

• Wheelchair-accessible trail from Generals Highway to Sherman Tree - parking for those with disabled placards only. If you have no placard but can’t make the walk down the main trail, ask at any visitor center for a temporary permit or, starting late May, take the shuttle. In winter, this lot is used by all visitors.

Be sure to stop by the nearby Giant Forest Museum (summer and early fall only) to learn more about Giant Sequoia trees. Interactive exhibits amaze and delight audiences of all ages. Ask about ranger-led programs. Books, maps, postcards, and other items are available for sale here.

Vertical Gain or Loss: Minimal, but wheelchairs will need assistance from the handicapped parking lot

Trail Distance: 1 mile

Handicapped parking lot and paved trails provide access to this area. However, wheelchairs will need assistance from the handicapped parking lot.

A free shuttle operates to this and other popular destinations in the summer and early fall.

Pets are not permitted on any trails within Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, but are allowed 100 feet from roads in developed areas (picnic areas, campgrounds, and roads). Where allowed, pets must be on leashes no longer than 6 feet in length. Never leave pets in cars when it is warm, or they overheat quickly. Pets must not be left unattended in the parking area or in vehicles.