Tharp's Log Cabin [Suggest Edits]

Description

Built by Hale D Tharp in 1861, this is one of a few centuries old dwellings in the park. After first visiting the area and discovering Giant Forest in 1857, Tharp began a small ranching operation in the high altitude meadows. To tend to his flock he constructed this simple abode out of a fallen sequoia hollowed out by fire. For reasons still being discovered, sequoias decay very slowly if at all, making a large fallen one ideal to add walls and a chimney to. Tharp took his flock here every summer until the park's founding in 1890.

Now on the U.S. Register of Historic Places, John Muir once described this dwelling as a "noble den".

Long Walk: Located just under one very easy mile from the Crescent Meadow parking lot. You can take the trail loop either way to Log Meadow. The trail is very well traveled and may be busy during peak season. Consider taking the shuttle there as the lot can fill up fast.

Family Friendly: One of the easiest hikes in the park past pastoral fields and massive trees. Good for all ages, and you can usually find families taking a break here.

Gem Type: Historic Site