Explore the history of the Native American people who once lived at the Hospital Rock site. Inspect paintings on the rocks done by Native American artists and see other evidence that helps show what life was like for the 500 Potwisha Native Americans who first settled at this spot.
Archaeological evidence suggests Hospital Rock was settled as early as 1350. Read the interpretative panels in the area to find out more about the background of the settlement. Look for depressions within the rock. These are rock mortars that were used by the Potwisha community to grind acorns into flour.
Survey the various pictographs that are visible on the side of the rocks. The pictures are remarkably brilliant in color despite the passing of time. Marvel at how well preserved the red and orange images are and try to figure out what they mean.
Learn about the reason behind the name hospital rock. According to accounts, miners Hale Tharp and John Swanson were exploring the area that is now part of the national park in 1860 when Swanson was injured. Native Americans cared for him at the Hospital Rock site. Later in 1873, Alfred Everton was injured on a trap designed for bears and was also nursed back to health at the Hospital Rock location. Historically, Indians used the site for gatherings, ceremonies and shelter for the sick.
Consider packing some supplies to eat in the picnic area near the parking lot. A short trail across the road from the site leads down to the riverbank and is also worth exploring. Be careful of wet rocks, which can quickly become very slippery. The 4-mile-long (6-kilometer) Paradise Creek Trail is also accessible nearby and begins at Buckeye Flat Campground.
Find Hospital Rock in the western section of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park just off Generals Highway near Three Rivers. Look for a signpost along the road directing drivers to the site. The rocks and mortars are located just off the road and are accessible to all. An entrance fee is required to access the national park.
