Bear Hill and Moro Rock Loop Trail

While the route is designated for touring bicycles, it's important to note that Sequoia National Park generally restricts bikes to paved roads. Portions of this loop, particularly the Bear Hill Trail itself, are unpaved. You should be prepared to walk your bike on these sections or adjust your route to stick to authorized cycling roads. A robust touring bike or mountain bike is more suitable than a road-specific touring bicycle for this route.

The terrain is varied. You'll cycle on paved sections, including parts of the Generals Highway, which can be narrow and busy. There are also unpaved sections, especially on the Bear Hill Trail, which may require you to push your bike. The route includes steep uphill segments, contributing to its moderate difficulty rating.

The route is approximately 21.6 kilometers (13.4 miles) long with about 407 meters (1,335 feet) of elevation gain. On average, it takes touring cyclists around 1 hour and 35 minutes to complete, not including stops for sightseeing or walking unpaved sections.

You'll encounter diverse scenery including towering giant sequoias, lush meadows, and granite monoliths. Key highlights include the iconic Moro Rock, which offers breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the Great Western Divide and the High Sierras (access to Moro Rock summit is hiking-only via 300 steps). You'll also pass by fallen giant sequoias and the Giant Forest Museum.

A good starting point for this loop is often near the Giant Forest Museum, where parking is available. Starting here can also help you avoid some of the heaviest crowds found at other shuttle stops during peak times.

Yes, the Bear Hill and Moro Rock Loop Trail is located within Sequoia National Park, which requires an entrance fee. You can purchase a 7-day pass at the park entrance stations. No additional permits are typically needed for day-use cycling on authorized roads, but always check the official Sequoia National Park website for the most current regulations.

The best time to cycle this route is generally from late spring through early fall (May to October) when the roads are clear of snow and the weather is pleasant. Early morning visits are recommended to enjoy a more secluded experience and avoid heavy traffic on the Generals Highway, especially on weekends.

To minimize encountering large crowds, consider starting your ride early in the morning. Additionally, beginning your journey from the Giant Forest Museum and incorporating the Bear Hill Trail can help you bypass some of the busiest areas, particularly those around the more direct Moro Rock shuttle stop during peak season.

In Sequoia National Park, dogs are generally not allowed on unpaved trails, including most of the Bear Hill and Moro Rock Loop Trail. They are permitted on paved roads, in campgrounds, and in picnic areas. Always keep dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet (1.8 meters). Please verify current park regulations before bringing your pet.

Yes, the route intersects with and utilizes sections of several other trails. Notable intersections include the Alta Trail, Congress Trail, Moro Rock Trail, Lodgepole-Sherman Tree Trail, Giant Forest Local, Rimrock Trail, Soldiers Hill Trail, Big Trees Trail, Sugar Pine Trail, Sherman Tree Trail, Hazelwood Cutoff, and Hazelwood Trail.

Yes, the route passes through areas that were impacted by the 2021 KNP Complex Fire. This provides a unique opportunity to observe the transition from burned forest landscapes to typical, vibrant Sequoia forest, showcasing the resilience of nature.