Sequoia National Park 34

Big Trees Lodge to Sequoia National Park: A Comprehensive Guide

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Big Trees Lodge, formerly known as Wawona Hotel, is a historic lodging option in Yosemite National Park. While not directly connected to Sequoia National Park, it offers a unique base for exploring the giant sequoias of Yosemite. This guide provides information on accommodations, dining, and activities at Big Trees Lodge, as well as details on visiting nearby sequoia groves.

What Are the Accommodation Options at Big Trees Lodge?

big trees lodge to sequoia national park
Image ‘File:Sequoia National Park Landscape1.jpg’ by Drakonfly, licensed under CC0

Big Trees Lodge offers a variety of room types to suit different preferences and budgets:

  • 104 total rooms across six buildings
  • 50 rooms with private baths
  • 54 rooms with shared bathrooms and showers
  • European-style architecture and furnishings
  • Claw-foot tubs and marble-top dressers in some rooms
  • Veranda access for many rooms

Amenities

  • Tennis court
  • Swimming pool
  • Daily maid service
  • No televisions or telephones (to maintain natural ambiance)

Pricing and Reservations

For current pricing and availability, visitors should:

  1. Check the official Yosemite National Park lodging website
  2. Call 888-413-8869 for reservations
  3. Book online through the official reservation system

What Dining Options Are Available at Big Trees Lodge?

big trees lodge to sequoia national park
Image ‘File:Sequoia National Park, California (2011).jpg’ by Alberto Carrasco Casado, licensed under CC BY 2.0

The main dining room at Big Trees Lodge is known for its exceptional cuisine and historic atmosphere:

  • All meals served daily
  • Saturday night old-fashioned barbecues (summer favorite)
  • Scenic dining room with park views

While specific menu items are not detailed, guests can expect:

  • Seasonal, locally-inspired dishes
  • Options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Special dietary accommodations (upon request)

For the most up-to-date menu information and meal times, it’s best to contact the lodge directly or check their official website.

How Far is Big Trees Lodge from Sequoia National Park?

It’s important to note that Big Trees Lodge is not actually in or near Sequoia National Park. Here are the key details:

  • Location: Within Yosemite National Park
  • Distance from Yosemite’s south entrance: 4 miles
  • Address: 8308 Wawona Road (Highway 41), Yosemite National Park

Transportation Options within Yosemite

  1. Personal vehicle
  2. Mule and horseback rides from Wawona Stable
  3. Walking and hiking trails accessible from the hotel

What Sequoia Groves Can Visitors Access from Big Trees Lodge?

While not in Sequoia National Park, Big Trees Lodge offers access to impressive sequoia groves within Yosemite:

  1. Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
  2. Largest sequoia grove in Yosemite
  3. Home to over 500 mature giant sequoias

  4. Features famous trees like the Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree

  5. Tuolumne Grove

  6. Smaller, less crowded grove
  7. Contains about two dozen mature giant sequoias

  8. Features a tunnel tree you can walk through

  9. Merced Grove

  10. Smallest of Yosemite’s sequoia groves
  11. Quiet, off-the-beaten-path experience
  12. Home to about 20 mature giant sequoias

What Activities Are Available Near Big Trees Lodge?

Guests at Big Trees Lodge can enjoy a variety of activities:

  1. Hiking
  2. Wawona Meadow Loop (easy, 3.5 miles)
  3. Swinging Bridge Loop (moderate, 4.75 miles)

  4. Chilnualna Falls Trail (strenuous, 8.2 miles round trip)

  5. Golfing

  6. 9-hole Wawona Golf Course (oldest in the Sierra Nevada)

  7. Horseback Riding

  8. Guided tours from Wawona Stable

  9. Historical Exploration

  10. Pioneer Yosemite History Center

  11. Stargazing

  12. Dark skies offer excellent night sky viewing

What Are the Park Entry Fees and Seasonal Considerations?

Visitors should be aware of the following:

  • Park entry fees apply (check Yosemite National Park website for current rates)
  • Big Trees Lodge is typically open from April 1 to November 28
  • Winter season: December 17 to January 2 for Christmas holidays
  • Summer features special events like Saturday night barbecues

Park Rules and Guidelines

  1. Follow Leave No Trace principles
  2. Adhere to trail and campfire regulations
  3. Store food properly to avoid wildlife encounters
  4. Respect quiet hours and fellow visitors

How Does Big Trees Lodge Compare to Lodging in Sequoia National Park?

While Big Trees Lodge is not in Sequoia National Park, it offers a unique alternative:

Feature Big Trees Lodge Sequoia National Park Lodges
Location Yosemite National Park Sequoia National Park
Proximity to Sequoias Close to Mariposa Grove Multiple groves throughout park
Historic Value Built in 1879 Varies by lodge
Amenities Pool, golf course, dining room Varies by lodge
Accessibility 4 miles from park entrance Depends on specific lodge

What Should Visitors Know About the Sequoias Near Big Trees Lodge?

The sequoias accessible from Big Trees Lodge are part of Yosemite’s natural wonders:

  • Species: Giant Sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum)
  • Age: Many trees over 2,000 years old
  • Height: Can exceed 300 feet
  • Diameter: Up to 36 feet at the base
  • Fire Resistance: Thick bark provides natural protection

Visitors should:
– Stay on designated trails to protect tree roots
– Learn about conservation efforts to preserve these ancient giants
– Respect park rules regarding touching or climbing trees

By staying at Big Trees Lodge, visitors can experience the majesty of giant sequoias while enjoying the historic charm and amenities of this Yosemite landmark. While it’s not directly connected to Sequoia National Park, it offers a unique perspective on these incredible trees within the equally stunning setting of Yosemite National Park.

References:
1. https://www.allyosemite.com/park_lodging/big_trees_lodge.php
2. https://www.travelyosemite.com/lodging/wawona-hotel/
3. https://www.nps.gov/yose/index.htm

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