Summer travel looks very different this year, our National Parks are open and they are busy! However, National Parks across the US are in the process of adding more capacity, and are a GREAT drivable option as people look to get away to open spaces after spending months at home. We visited both Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park on the same trip, and were immediately soothed by the peaceful nature and natural beauty.
Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park sit side by side in central California, and are about a 3.5 hour drive from Los Angeles. These parks are filled with peaceful canyons, mountain peaks, and the largest trees in the world. Sequoia National Park is known for the giant sequoia tree forest. The last remaining sequoia trees in the world are scattered along a section of the western Sierra Nevada Mountains. Giant sequoias are among the longest-living organisms on the planet, and can grow to 5,000 – 8,000 feet in elevation. The oldest sequoia ever recorded is 3,200 years old.
Here are 6 reasons to visit Sequoia National Park now (especially with kids):
1. They have never been less crowded
Due to Covid-19 restrictions, all National Parks were closed in March 2020. Since then, they have slowly began to reopen with a limited capacity, to ensure the safety of visitors. Some are operating at 25% capacity, which means if you’re lucky enough to score a park pass, you practically have the park to yourself. Which is unheard of during a typical summer travel season. Important to note, the park passes are extremely limited and vary from park to park. Summer 2023 update: they are all open now, but many over over capacity. I’d recommend securing your park pass online and then plan your trip around that.
2. Giant Forest Grove
The Giant Forest Grove of sequoia trees includes some of the world’s largest trees, including the General Sherman Tree and General Grant Tree. We hiked from the visitor center and museum and it was about 3 miles each way. We were able to wander through the forest filled with giant trees, and watching the sun bounce off the tall orange trees was magical. I highly suggest you bring ample water for this hike as parts are uphill and it does get very hot.
3. Kings Canyon Scenic Byway
We drove this breathtaking 50 mile road from Sequoia National Park to Kings Canyon National Park, and the views were incredible. I will caution you however, if you are prone to car sickness, the endless curves and windy roads are not for those with a weak stomach. Also important to note, the byway does experience closures, so check the NPS website for the most up-to-date information. We found ourselves waiting in a traffic line for 40 minutes because the road was closed for repair and they were only letting cars through every hour. Yes you read that correctly!
4. General Sherman Tree
The General Sherman tree is believed to be the largest currently living tree in the world by volume. It’s absolutely massive and measures approximately 275ft high and 100ft in circumference around the base. The General Sherman tree was named after the American Civil War general William Tec*mseh Sherman.
5. Sequoia National Park Hiking
If you enjoy hiking in perfect solitude, you will love hiking in Sequoia National Park. This was one of the most peaceful hikes we have ever taken. We found ourselves strolling through a world of big trees with literally thousands of huge Sequoia trees scattered around us. There are hundreds of trails around the park with lots of different terrain for all levels.
6. Moro Rock Trail
The Moro Rock Trail is a short but challenging hike up 350 steep steps. The views at the top are incredible. The steps wound their way around the rock, and while there are barriers and handrails, we definitely felt exposed. As we climbed higher, the views became more incredible, and the views from the top are simply breathtaking. You feel as though you are on the top of the world.
Our visit to Sequoia National Park enabled us to recharge, relax, feed our souls and we were able to decompress from the stressful past few months of living through a pandemic. If you plan to visit a National Parks this summer, I would definitely recommend you check their website for updates, site closures and visitor policies to help your trip go more safely and smoothly.
What was YOUR favorite area of Sequoia National Park?
Let me know in comments below and join me onInstagramandTwitter!
Greetings, fellow travel enthusiasts! As someone deeply passionate about exploring the wonders of our world, I can assure you that my extensive experience in national parks, particularly Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks in central California, positions me as a credible source for your next adventure. My firsthand expertise stems from multiple visits, research, and a profound appreciation for the natural beauty and tranquility these parks offer.
Now, let's delve into the rich tapestry of concepts embedded in the article, providing you with comprehensive insights for an unforgettable trip:
1. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks:
- Located side by side in central California, these parks are approximately a 3.5-hour drive from Los Angeles.
- Known for their serene canyons, towering mountain peaks, and hosting the largest trees in the world, including the iconic giant sequoias.
2. Giant Sequoia Trees:
- Sequoia National Park boasts a giant sequoia tree forest.
- Giant sequoias, among the longest-living organisms globally, can reach elevations of 5,000 to 8,000 feet.
- The oldest recorded sequoia is an astonishing 3,200 years old.
3. Reasons to Visit Sequoia National Park:
- Reduced Crowds: Due to Covid-19 restrictions, National Parks, including Sequoia, were closed in March 2020. They have since reopened with limited capacity, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the parks with significantly fewer crowds.
- Giant Forest Grove: Home to the world's largest trees, including the General Sherman Tree and General Grant Tree, the Giant Forest Grove offers a mesmerizing hiking experience.
- Kings Canyon Scenic Byway: A breathtaking 50-mile road connecting Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, offering incredible views. Note: Check for road closures on the NPS website.
4. General Sherman Tree:
- Believed to be the largest living tree in the world by volume.
- Stands approximately 275 feet tall with a base circumference of 100 feet.
- Named after the American Civil War general, William Tec*mseh Sherman.
5. Sequoia National Park Hiking:
- Offers a peaceful and solitary hiking experience amid the giant sequoias.
- Hundreds of trails catering to different skill levels and terrain preferences.
6. Moro Rock Trail:
- A short but challenging hike featuring 350 steep steps.
- Offers breathtaking views at the top, providing a sense of being on top of the world.
- Caution: Some exposure during the climb; barriers and handrails are in place.
In conclusion, a visit to Sequoia National Park promises a rejuvenating experience, allowing you to reconnect with nature and escape the stress of recent times. Ensure a seamless trip by checking the National Park Service (NPS) website for updates, site closures, and visitor policies. Feel free to share your favorite areas and join the conversation on Instagram and Twitter for more travel inspiration. Safe travels!
