The South Grove Natural Preserve is home to about 1,000 mature Giant Sequoias. The trailhead parking area is located nine miles past the park entrance on the main park road. Here you will find the trail to the largest tree in the park, the Agassiz Tree. The grove has two moderately difficult loop trails. For trails in this area, make sure you bring water and wear appropriate hiking shoes.
The California State Park System purchased the South Grove in 1954 for $2.8 million after a vigorous public campaign and fundraising effort headed by Save the Redwoods League and Calaveras Grove Association to preserve the area from logging. The State Park Commission designated the area as a Natural Preserve in 1984. This designation kept the grove in a pristine, nearly undisturbed state.
The South Grove trails do not have trail markers, but there is a trail guide to point out natural and historical features along the path.
Depending on your route, you may hike 3.5 to 5 miles (5.6 to 8.1 km) on this trail. The first 1.5 miles ( 2.4 km) of trail is a moderate, steady climb from the parking lot to the start of the loop trail, with a gain of 260 feet (79 m) in elevation. The loop trail passes through a representative portion of the lower part of the grove. Just over one mile (1.6 km) in length, this section of trail first climbs 200 feet (61 m), then gently descends back to the start of the loop. Halfway around the loop, you will find a side trail leasing to the upper grove and the largest tree in the park—the Agassiz Tree. At about 0.6 miles (1 km) in each direction, this trail gently climbs 100 feet (30 m). • Allow 1 1/2 to 3 hours for the 3.5 mile (5.6 km) hike form the parking lot around the loop trail. • Allow 2 1/2 to 4 1/2 hours for the 5 mile (8.1 km) hike to the Agassiz Tree. Once you are within the boundaries of the preserve, you may hike off the trail. Stay on the trail until you reach the preserve boundary—refer to the map and trail guide directions. Please choose to hike off-trail only if you can navigate through an unfamiliar wilderness area. Garbage cans and restrooms are available at the parking lot only. Carry your own water, as it is not advisable to drink untreated water from any Sierra Stream.
