Moro Rock

As you enter Sequoia National Park, Moro Rock looms overhead, thousands of feet above the highway. This large granite dome is a spectacular geologic feature that can be enjoyed from above or below. A concrete and stone stairway leads over 350 steps to the top of Moro Rock. Even just a short distance from the parking area and above the forests's canopy, the Great Western Divide's peaks become visible. As you climb, views open up from the foothills and San Joaquin Valley to the west, to deep into wilderness to the east. Handrails along the way make the climb relatively safe, though you should keep a close eye on small children because of steep dropoffs along the entire route. The hike can be strenuous; taking your time as you climb can help you adjust to the thinner air at higher elevations. In summer, free shuttles run from Giant Forest Museum to the Moro Rock parking area. On weekends, the road closes to private vehicles and shuttles are the only way to reach Moro Rock and Crescent Meadow. On weekdays, the road remains open, but the small parking area may fill. Peregrine falcons nest on Moro Rock in summer, and there are usually climbing closures for technical rock climbers to protect nests. These closures don't affect hikers using the stairway. In winter, Moro Rock / Crescent Meadow Road closes with snow. Though ski trails lead to the parking area, the stairway is closed due to the danger of the icy or snowy steps.