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Viewpoint · Three Rivers, California
Moro Rock
Granite dome in Sequoia National Park, with a staircase of about 350 stone steps carved to the top, offering views of the Great Western Divide, the Kaweah River valley and, on clear days, the San Joaquin Valley.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Moro Rock
Moro Rock is a granite dome that rises on the edge of the Giant Forest above the Kaweah River valley. It formed by exfoliation of the granite, which peels in layers like an onion, rounding the rock.
A staircase of about 350 steps, built in the 1930s from stone with handrails, climbs the dome’s ridge to the summit at roughly 2,050 meters elevation. The climb is short but steep, with narrow sections and significant exposure to heights.
From the top you can see the Great Western Divide, a line of Sierra Nevada peaks to the east, the Kaweah River valley nearly 1,200 meters below, and to the west the San Joaquin Valley. The road to the rock also leads to the Tunnel Log, a fallen sequoia trunk cut for car passage, and to Crescent Meadow.
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
From one to one and a half hours.
Best time
Early morning or late afternoon, when the air is usually clearer. The staircase closes for ice, snow or lightning storms; check before you go. On some summer days the road closes to cars and access is by park shuttle buses.
How to get there
It is on Crescent Meadow Road, about 3 km from the Giant Forest Museum. In summer the park shuttles stop at the base. A vehicle entrance fee is charged at the park.
Tip
Climb slowly and hold the handrails: the staircase has narrow, exposed sections and the elevation is tiring.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Moro Rock
How many steps does Moro Rock have?
About 350, in a staircase carved into the rock up to the summit.
What can you see from the top of Moro Rock?
The Great Western Divide, the Kaweah River valley and, on clear days, the San Joaquin Valley.
Is Moro Rock dangerous?
The climb includes narrow, exposed sections but has railings. It closes during ice, snow or lightning.