GENERAL SHERMAN TREE FAQS

Is the General Sherman tree still growing?

The General Sherman tree is alive and well and still growing! Currently the tree measures 103 feet (31 meters) around and is 275 feet (84 meters) tall.

Every year it adds about enough wood to make another 60-foot/18-metre-tall tree.

According the national park website, here are some stats about the General Sherman Tree:

Height above Base 274.9 feet
Circumference at Ground 102.6 feet
Maximum Diameter at Base  36.5 feet
Diameter 60' (18.3 m) above base  17.5 feet  
Diameter 180' (54.9 m) above base 14.0 feet
Diameter of Largest Branch 6.8 feet
Height of First Large Branch above the Base 130.0 feet
Average Crown Spread  106.5 feet 

Why is the tree called General Sherman?

In 1987 James Wolverton, a lieutenant who served under General William Sherman in the American Civil War decided to name the tree after General Sherman.

How long is the hike to General Sherman Tree?

There is a .8 mile paved trail to the General Sherman Tree from the Wolverton Road parking lot, with a few stops along the path. It is well signed and heavily trafficked. Down and back the General Sherman Tree trail is 1.4 miles. Plan to spend about 1.5 hours to fully appreciate this amazing grove.

How old is the tree General Sherman?

The General Sherman Tree is estimated to be 2,000 years old. 

How do I find the General Sherman Tree?

The General Sherman Tree is located on the General’s Highway just south of the road to Wolverton. It is about 2 miles north from the Giant Forest Museum. During the summer season, parking is available at the parking area off Wolverton Road. Accessible parking is available to visitors with a placard at the small lot on the General’s highway.

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