Memorial Day in the Mountains

Overlook

For our Memorial Day weekend getaway, we visited the stunning Sequoia National Park, and one of the highlights of our trip was hiking the Moro Rock Trail.

Fox Sparrow

This easy 3.8-mile trail offers an unforgettable walk through giant sequoias and granite outcrops, all with sweeping views of the Sierra Nevada. The afternoon was warm, with clouds drifting overhead, making for a pleasant and moody atmosphere.

Trail View

A Legendary Trail

Overlook

The Moro Rock Trail is famous for its granite staircase that leads to the summit of the rock itself, but we took a longer loop that wound through the surrounding forest first.

True Babystars

Massive sequoias stood like silent guardians on either side of the trail, and the scent of pine and damp earth filled the air. Despite the crowds at the top, parts of the trail were quiet and peaceful, especially under the clouded sky.

Trail View

A Chorus in the Canopy

American Robin

As we made our way through the forest, the sound of birdsong echoed between the trees. We spotted a few American Robins darting across the trail and heard the high-pitched notes of a Red-breasted Nuthatch high in the branches. Their presence added a lively energy to the quiet grandeur of the towering trees.

Red-breasted Nuthatch

Feathered Highlights

Brown Creeper

Further along, we saw a Brown Creeper working its way up a tree trunk in its unique spiraling fashion, blending in beautifully with the bark.

Dark-eyed Junco

Dark-eyed Juncos flitted across the trail in small groups, their quick movements catching our eyes. A Common Raven soared overhead, calling out as it passed above the forest canopy.

Common Raven

Woodland Surprises

Fox Sparrow

One of the nicest surprises of the day was seeing Fox Sparrows—not just one, but a few, rustling in the underbrush. These birds can be tricky to spot, but the stillness of the forest gave us the chance to observe them hopping between the fallen leaves. A Dusky Flycatcher perched briefly on a snag, pausing just long enough for us to admire its subtle plumage.

Dusky Flycatcher

An Unforgettable First

Pileated Woodpecker

The true highlight of the hike came when we heard a loud, echoing drumming deep in the forest. We followed the sound and, to our amazement, spotted our first-ever Pileated Woodpecker. Its striking red crest and powerful presence were unmistakable. We watched as it moved up a tree with deliberate strength, chipping away at the bark. It was a moment we won’t forget.

Mountain pink currant

Reaching the Summit

Overlook

Eventually, we reached the famous staircase that climbs up Moro Rock. Though short, the climb was steep and offered jaw-dropping views of the surrounding valleys and distant peaks.

Western fence lizard

The clouds swirled above us as the wind picked up, adding drama to the already spectacular scene. It was the perfect way to end the loop.

Overlook

Stillness Among Giants

Overlook

On the way back, we took our time, pausing to look up at the ancient sequoias. Even with other hikers on the trail, the sheer size and age of the trees made everything feel still and timeless.

Overlook

We felt grateful to have such a beautiful space to explore together, especially on a holiday weekend.

Chipmunk

A Memorial Day to Remember

Trail View

The Moro Rock Trail was more than just a scenic hike—it offered a rich mix of wildlife, history, and awe-inspiring nature.

Overlook

From spotting a Pileated Woodpecker for the first time to standing atop a granite monolith surrounded by clouds, this hike will stay with us for a long time. It was a memorable way to celebrate the long weekend.

Pacific Dogwood