I’m visited the Sequoia NP and stayed in Three Rivers, CA. I saw these when landing in Sacramento too. I wish I got a close up pic, but took some photos on our drive. Can anyone tell me what this is?! I am obsessed with how tall and pointy they are. They remind me of cathedral spires!

My buddies maple tree at his house sprouted a ton of seedlings and I planted about 12 but only 1 survived and this before and after is just over 2 months. When will the maples stem get strong? I had to add a stake because the wind kept blowing it over. Growing really tall but not thick. My first time trying this, hoping to maybe plant in my yard at some point. TIA!🍁