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Tree · Three Rivers, California
General Sherman Tree
The largest tree in the world by wood volume, a giant sequoia about 84 meters tall and over 2,000 years old in the Giant Forest, reached by a short trail that descends from the parking area.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About General Sherman Tree
The General Sherman is the largest tree in the world by wood volume, with about 1,500 cubic meters in the trunk. It is roughly 84 meters tall and has more than 30 meters of circumference at the base, and its age is estimated at over 2,000 years. It is not the tallest nor the widest, but no other known tree has that much volume.
The tree was named in 1879 after General William Tecumseh Sherman of the Civil War. It stands in the Giant Forest, one of the largest groves of giant sequoias, at over 2,000 meters elevation.
From the main parking lot, a paved trail of about 800 meters descends to the tree, with steps and viewpoints; the return is uphill and tiring because of the altitude. A smaller parking area next to the tree is reserved for people with disabilities. The trail continues along the Congress Trail, a loop past other giant sequoias.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About one to two hours, including the Congress Trail.
Best time
Early morning or late afternoon, when there are fewer people on the trail. In summer, the parking fills up around midday; the park shuttle buses help.
How to get there
It is on Wolverton Road, off Generals Highway, about 50 km from Three Rivers. A vehicle entrance fee is charged at the park.
Tip
Follow the Congress Trail after seeing the General Sherman: the grove becomes much quieter just a few meters ahead.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about General Sherman Tree
Is the General Sherman the largest tree in the world?
It is the largest by wood volume. There are taller and wider trees, but none with as much volume.
How old is the General Sherman?
Its age is estimated at over 2,000 years.
Is the General Sherman trail difficult?
It’s about 800 meters, paved, downhill going and uphill coming back, tiring because of the elevation.