THE GRIZZLY GIANT: 4 MUST-KNOW FACTS ABOUT YOSEMITE'S OLDEST TREE
The Grizzly Giant in the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoia is a must-see during your Yosemite visit.
Fun facts and story by Christina P. Kantzavelos, www.buenqamino.com
Estimated to have taken root around 200 AD, a Giant Sequoia (Sequoiadendron Giganteum) named the Grizzly Giant is both the tallest and oldest tree in Yosemite National Park, standing at a solid 209 feet (try getting a vertical panorama of that!). If that's not impressive, its bark thickness alone is 2 feet, and its base circumference is 92 feet. Yeah, we are betting this gentle giant has a story or two to tell. Here are some interesting must-know facts about this wonder, before you get to meet in person at the re-opening of the Mariposa Grove this June!
The Grizzly Giant is rated the 25th largest tree in the world!
At a volume of 34,005 cubic feet, and an estimated 2 million pounds in weight, you may feel like a tiny pine cone in comparison. And unlike us humans, sequoias grow larger with age. Expect the generations ahead of us to be even in more awe.
It's all about that Base
There is a snag at the top, informing us that it was once taller. What can cause snags? Well, the tree was likely hit by lightning more than a few times, and damaged by lightning fires. The trunk bears some noticeable scars from these occasions. With 90 feet of diameter at its base, and extensive root bearing, you don't need to worry about this giant, who is grounded and stable enough to withstand all four seasons.
It was first visited by non-natives in 1857
The Mariposa Grove area was first visited by non-natives Milton Mann and Galen Clark in 1857. It was named after the county it's located in, Mariposa. Pretty original, right?. Along with the Washington Tree, the Grizzly Giant ranks amongst some of the largest sequoia trees in the world.
He's the coolest kid in the Grove
The Grizzly Giant Trail has been one of the most popular trails in Mariposa Grove, because who doesn't want to come upon this amazing tree in person and tilt your head way back? You will be able to checkout some other noteworthy trees on this same tree, such as The Bachelor and Three Graces. The Mariposa Grove re-opened on June 15, 2018, after three years and more than $30 million in restoration.
Want to stay nearby The Grizzly Giant and The Mariposa Grove?
Our rustic Redwoods In Yosemite® cabins and spacious vacation homes are located in historic Wawona, 6 miles inside the Southern entrance of Yosemite, just a few miles from the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. Relaxing and private, these fully equipped vacation cabins border the wild and scenic Merced River, the historic Wawona swinging bridge and Chilnualna Falls (the second highest vertical drop waterfalls in Yosemite)! Our Event Center includes full use of the Fireside Room and adjacent deck, with state of the art audio and visual equipment and a catering kitchen. Many of our cabins are pet friendly, some feature spa tubs, and all have private decks with BBQ's and upgraded linens for that, "Home Away from Home" experience.
For available homes inside the park check here: Vacation Home Rentals Search
For available pet friendly home inside the park check here: Pet Friendly Vacation Home Rentals Search