Sequoia National Forest, Ca

Tricia Christofferson, Acting District Ranger for the Western Divide Ranger District, decided this week to re-connect the Trail of 100 Giants by constructing a boardwalk alongside the fallen sequoias. Two giant sequoias fell onto the trail last September, blocking it. “The Trail of 100 Giants was refurbished in 1997 to provide increased accessibility for those with disabilities, I would like to see this loop opportunity re-opened to all visitors,” stated Christofferson.

The Trail of 100 Giants is a popular recreation site in the Giant Sequoia National Monument, Sequoia National Forest. The fallen sequoias, joined together at the base, were estimated at 280 feet tall and 17-foot in diameter. Currently, this project site is inaccessible due to snow. As soon as the area is open, Forest Service Engineers will be working with a contractor to design and construct a boardwalk that fits with the existing trail and blends into the landscape.

Western Divide District Ranger Priscilla Summers conducts a tour around the area where sequoias fell in the Trail of 100 Giants Sept. 30. Approximately 100 people attended the tour and offered suggestions.

Actual construction will begin towards the end of the summer, when wildlife and visitors will be less impacted by equipment and noise. Forest officials are working with our partners, the Giant Sequoia National Monument Association, Sierra Club, Backcountry Horseman, and California Native Plant Society, who have all offered support of our efforts.

During construction, likely August through November 2012, portions of the Trail of 100 Giants will be closed to visitors. Parking may be limited or unavailable due to equipment and supplies. Please plan your travel accordingly to allow the work to be done to reopen the Trail to all users. If you would like the most current information, please call the Western Divide Ranger District at 559-539-2607 Monday through Friday 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.