Calaveras Bigtrees Association

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North Grove Trail- Calaveras Big Trees State Park

"They (the Calaveras giants) were the first discovered and are the best known. Thousands of travelers from every country have come to pay them tribute of admiration and praise."

-John Muir

The trail through the North Grove is a gentle, well-marked loop about one mile (1.6 km) long. Allow at least one hour for your walk through this magnificent, historically significant grove.

Sights to see on the North Grove Trail –

The Big Stump - Augustus T. Dowd was chasing a wounded grizzly bear into an unfamiliar forest. Suddenly he was stopped in his tracks by an unbelievable sight – a tree of monstrous proportions that was easily three times larger than any he had even seen.

The north grove provides viewing of some of the most magnificent sequoias know to man. Additionally, the North grove offers viewing of Sugar Pines, White Fir, Incense Cedar and Ponderosa Pines in their natural settings.

Inside of the grove you will find markers along the trail that explains and give history of some of the more spectacular trees such as the Three Graces of Greek mythology, The Pioneer Cabin Tree,

The Abraham Lincoln tree, The Sacrificial Tree, The Father of the Forest, Old Bachelor tree,

Siamese Twins and the Granite State Tree. Additionally, views of giant sequoias’ with special twists and formations can be seen.

Continue and view the Empire State tree, plus giant redwoods viewed where they fell. You will cross the Big Tree Creek, which drains the North Grove basin. Although this creek in tiny, it is able to support a population of native trout. Sierra redwood groves are always located near a reliable source of water.

In the spring, view the Specatular Mountain Dogwoods in bloom. The sight of all the Dogwoods in bloom contrasted against the forest and giant redwoods is a sight unparalleled.

As you travel along the North Grove trail, notice the pinecones and wildlife surrounding the area. Each is important to the natural cycle of the forest.

Audio tapes for the North Grove are available on loan for visually impaired visitors. Ask at the Visitor Center.

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