Sequoia National Park

Discover the beauty and grandeur of Sequoia National Park, home to towering sequoia trees and breathtaking landscapes.

Welcome to Sequoia National Park, where nature’s giants stand tall amidst stunning scenery. In this guide, I’ll take you on a journey through the wonders of Sequoia National Park, from its majestic forests to its awe-inspiring vistas.

Overview About Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park, located in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, is renowned for its giant sequoia trees, including the iconic General Sherman Tree, the world’s largest tree by volume. The park’s diverse ecosystems, rugged mountains, and alpine meadows attract visitors from around the globe.

Sequoia National Park encompasses a forested area spanning 629 square miles (1,629 square km) in the Sierra Nevada, located in east-central California, U.S. To the north and northwest, it borders Kings Canyon National Park, while Mount Whitney (14,494 feet [4,418 meters]), the highest peak in the contiguous 48 states, lies along its eastern boundary. Established in 1890, Sequoia National Park was designated to safeguard groves of giant trees, specifically the giant sequoias (Sequoiadendron giganteum), renowned as some of the largest and oldest living organisms on Earth. Its management is shared with Kings Canyon National Park.

Best Things to Do atSequoia National Park

Here are a few highlights of activities to enjoy in Sequoia National Park

Hiking

Sequoia National Park offers an extensive network of hiking trails, catering to hikers of all levels. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll through a grove of giant sequoias or a multi-day backpacking excursion into the backcountry, there’s a trail for you.

Sequoia National Park always has a trail for you

Camping Trip

Sequoia National Park offers several camping options, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the wilderness.

Overnight Backpacking

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks boast over 800 miles of maintained trails, providing access to the vast expanse of over 800,000 acres of designated Wilderness. These parks offer remarkable opportunities for wilderness recreation.

Stretching from the majestic heights of Mount Whitney to the dense oak woodlands of the foothills, the Sierra Nevada mountains have always inspired awe and adventure. For a true wilderness adventure, embark on an overnight backpacking trip in Sequoia National Park. Explore remote wilderness areas, pristine alpine lakes, and rugged mountain terrain as you trek through the backcountry.

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks offers remarkable opportunities for wilderness recreation

Drives and Viewpoints

Experience the beauty of Sequoia National Park from the comfort of your car with scenic drives and breathtaking viewpoints. Cruise along winding mountain roads and stop at overlooks to take in panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.

Visit the General Grant Tree

Pay homage to one of the world’s largest living trees, the General Grant Tree, located in the Grant Grove area of the park. Marvel at this ancient giant, which stands over 267 feet tall and has a circumference of over 100 feet.

The General Grant Tree is one of the world's largest living trees — The General Grant Tree is one of the world’s largest living trees

Climb Morro Rock

Challenge yourself with a climb to the top of Moro Rock, a granite dome offering sweeping views of the park’s rugged terrain. Ascend a series of staircases carved into the rock and enjoy panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Visit the General Sherman Tree

Witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on earth by volume. Located in the Giant Forest, this towering giant stands over 275 feet tall and is estimated to be over 2,000 years old.

Watching Wildlife

Keep your eyes peeled for the diverse array of wildlife that is called Sequoia National Park home. From black bears and mule deer to mountain lions and bobcats, the park is teeming with fascinating creatures waiting to be spotted.

Places to Stay

Let us introduce you to detailed accommodation options as you explore Sequoia National Park.

Camping

The park feature four campgrounds, two of which are open year-round. Each campground accommodates up to six people and offers amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings with grills, and metal food storage boxes. Advance reservations are typically required for most campsites, as they tend to fill up fast.

Campfire restrictions are often imposed on lower-elevation campgrounds in the Foothills, particularly in the summer months.

Site Type	Fee
Standard Campsite (up to 6 people)	$32
Stock Campsite	$40
Mid-sized Group Campsite	$50
Large Group Campsite	$60,$70, or $80

Sequoia Camping - Kings Canyon Campgrounds — Sequoia Camping – Kings Canyon Campgrounds

Hotel and Resort

Whether you’re seeking a rustic retreat surrounded by towering sequoias or a cozy lodge nestled in the heart of the forest, Sequoia offers a range of lodging options to suit every traveler’s preference and budget.

Wuksachi Lodge (2.5-Star)

Wuksachi Lodge nestled in the heart of Sequoia National Park, offers rustic charm and modern comforts amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

Address: 64740 Wuksachi Way Sequoia National Park, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park
Price Range: $277 – $444

Montecito Sequoia Lodge & Summer Family Camp (2.5-Star)

Montecito Sequoia Lodge & Summer Family Camp nestled in the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains, located near Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks. This hotel provides rooming options including newly-built Forest Cabins and Lake View Suites with private baths & decks, Vintage Lodge Rooms & Suites all with private baths.

Address: 63410 Generals Hwy, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park

Montecito Sequoia Lodge & Summer Family Camp provides rooming options including newly-built Forest Cabins and Lake View Suites

John Muir Lodge (2-Star)

John Muir Lodge is an excellent choice for travelers visiting Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park. The hotel features shops and a gift shop. Plus, John Muir Hotel offers a snack bar, free parking is available.

Address: 86728 Highway 180, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park
Price Range: $200 – $300

Dining

Exploring Sequoia National Park’s culinary offerings is an essential part of any visitor’s experience. Here are three top dining establishments within the park:

The Peaks Restaurant

Address: 64740 Wuksachi Way Sequoia National Park, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park

Peaks Restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring contemporary American cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. From hearty breakfasts to gourmet dinners, guests can enjoy dishes like Grilled Salmon with Lemon Dill Beurre Blanc or Seared Ribeye Steak.

Open time: 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM
5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Prices range: $20 – $40

The Gateway Restaurant & Lodge

Address: 45978 Sierra Dr, Three Rivers

The restaurant serves a diverse menu featuring a mix of American classics and regional specialties. The Gateway is renowned for its mouthwatering barbecue offerings, including tender ribs, juicy burgers, and flavorful grilled chicken.

Open time: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Prices range: $15 – $30

The dining space at The Gateway is friendly to nature

River View Grill & Bar

Address: 42323 Sierra Dr, Three Rivers

River View Grill & Bar features a diverse menu with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Guests can also enjoy a variety of handcrafted cocktails, local wines, and craft beers at the bar.

Open time: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Prices range: $6 – $21

Planning Your Trip

Make your trip more perfect with pre-arranged plans.

Visiting Time

June through August is considered the optimal time to visit Sequoia National Park due to the stable weather conditions. The park is open year-round, 24/7, but specific challenges may arise during certain seasons.

Starting in September, there is a reduction in ranger-led programs, and some facilities adjust their operating hours. Additionally, certain areas of the park, like Mineral King and Cedar Grove, may close entirely due to access challenges.

Summer in Sequoia National Park

Spring in Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park in Fall

Winter in Sequoia National Park

Transportation

Most visitors traveling to Sequoia National Park typically fly into Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT), situated approximately 65 miles northwest of the park. Renting a car to travel to the park is a common choice for transportation.

Getting around Sequoia National Park is primarily done by personal vehicle, with well-maintained roads providing access to most attractions. During the peak season, a shuttle service operates, offering convenient transportation between key points of interest.