Nestled in the heart of California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, Sequoia National Park stands as a testament to nature’s grandeur. Home to some of the world’s largest trees and breathtaking landscapes, this park offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the natural world. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a family looking for an unforgettable vacation, Sequoia National Park has something for everyone. Let’s explore the top 10 attractions and experiences that make this park a must-visit destination.
Introduction to Sequoia National Park
Sequoia National Park, established in 1890, is a land of giants. Covering an impressive 404,064 acres, this park is renowned for its towering sequoia trees, deep canyons, and diverse ecosystems. The park’s location in the southern Sierra Nevada range provides a stunning backdrop of rugged mountains and pristine wilderness.
One of the park’s most famous features is the Giant Forest, home to five of the ten largest trees in the world. This ancient grove of sequoias has been captivating visitors for over a century, offering a glimpse into a world that has remained largely unchanged for thousands of years.
The park’s popularity continues to grow, with over 1.3 million visitors in 2024, marking a significant increase from previous years. This surge in interest reflects the growing appreciation for natural spaces and the unique experiences Sequoia National Park offers.
Best Time to Visit Sequoia National Park
Choosing the right time to visit Sequoia National Park can greatly enhance your experience. Each season offers its own unique charm and set of activities, making the park a year-round destination.
Summer (June to August) is the most popular time to visit, with warm temperatures and all park facilities open. This is ideal for hiking, camping, and exploring the higher elevations. However, it’s also the busiest season, so be prepared for crowds and book accommodations well in advance.
Fall (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and stunning foliage. This is a great time for hiking and photography, with fewer crowds than summer. Some facilities begin to close in late fall, so check the park’s website for current conditions.
Winter (December to February) transforms the park into a snowy wonderland. While some roads and facilities close, winter activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing become available. The giant sequoias draped in snow offer a magical sight.
Spring (March to May) sees the park coming back to life with wildflowers and flowing waterfalls. This is an excellent time for birdwatching and enjoying the park’s rebirth. However, some higher elevation areas may still be snow-covered.
Regardless of when you visit, it’s essential to check the park’s official website for current conditions and any closures or restrictions. The park’s weather can be unpredictable, so always be prepared for changes.
Top 10 Things to Do in Sequoia National Park
1. Visit the General Sherman Tree
No trip to Sequoia National Park is complete without seeing the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on Earth by volume. This giant sequoia stands at an impressive 275 feet tall and has a diameter of 36 feet at its base. The tree is estimated to be between 2,300 and 2,700 years old, making it a living testament to the endurance of nature.
To reach the General Sherman Tree, visitors can take a short hike from the main parking area. The trail is paved and accessible, making it suitable for most visitors. As you approach the tree, you’ll be struck by its immense size and the quiet majesty of the surrounding forest. Interpretive signs along the trail provide interesting facts about the tree and the ecosystem it supports.
While the General Sherman Tree is undoubtedly impressive, take time to appreciate the entire grove. The sheer size of these ancient giants creates a humbling experience that reminds us of our place in the natural world. Standing beneath these towering sequoias, it’s easy to understand the pull of nature that Muir so eloquently described.
2. Hike the Congress Trail
For those looking to immerse themselves further in the world of giant sequoias, the Congress Trail offers an excellent opportunity. This 2-mile loop trail starts near the General Sherman Tree and winds through some of the most impressive groves in the park.
The trail is relatively easy, with a paved surface and minimal elevation gain, making it accessible for most visitors. Along the way, you’ll encounter named trees such as the President, the Senate, and the House, each with its own unique character and story.
One of the highlights of the Congress Trail is the chance to see sequoias in various stages of life. From young saplings to fallen giants that continue to support life even in death, the trail offers a comprehensive look at the lifecycle of these remarkable trees.
3. Drive Through Tunnel Log
For a unique photo opportunity and a bit of park history, don’t miss the chance to drive through Tunnel Log. This fallen sequoia, which came down in 1937, has had a tunnel carved through its trunk, allowing cars to pass through.
Located on the Crescent Meadow Road in Giant Forest, Tunnel Log is 17 feet wide and 8 feet high at its center. Most standard vehicles can pass through, but larger RVs and trailers should check dimensions before attempting.
While driving through a tree might seem at odds with conservation, Tunnel Log serves as a reminder of past attitudes towards these giant trees and how our relationship with nature has evolved. Today, fallen sequoias are left in place to decay naturally, returning their nutrients to the forest and providing habitat for countless species.
4. Climb Moro Rock
For those seeking panoramic views and a bit of adventure, climbing Moro Rock is a must-do activity in Sequoia National Park. This large granite dome offers breathtaking vistas of the Great Western Divide and the western half of the park.
The climb to the top involves ascending a steep quarter-mile staircase with 400 steps carved into the rock. While the climb can be strenuous, especially at the park’s high elevation, the views from the top are well worth the effort. On clear days, you can see for miles in every direction, taking in the rugged beauty of the Sierra Nevada.
Safety is paramount when climbing Moro Rock. The trail can be narrow and steep in places, and there’s little shade along the way. It’s best to attempt the climb early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Always bring plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes with good traction.
5. Explore the Giant Forest Museum
To gain a deeper understanding of the park’s ecology and history, a visit to the Giant Forest Museum is essential. Located in the heart of the Giant Forest, this educational center offers interactive exhibits and informative displays about the sequoia ecosystem.
The museum provides valuable context for your park visit, explaining the life cycle of giant sequoias, their role in the ecosystem, and the challenges they face. You’ll learn about the park’s history, including its establishment and the ongoing efforts to protect these ancient trees.
One of the museum’s highlights is its focus on fire ecology. Contrary to what many visitors might expect, fire plays a crucial role in the health of sequoia forests. The exhibits explain how controlled burns and natural fires help sequoias reproduce and maintain a healthy forest structure.
The Giant Forest Museum also serves as a visitor center, offering maps, trail information, and ranger-led programs. It’s an excellent first stop in the park to orient yourself and plan your visit.
6. Walk the Big Trees Trail
For an easy and informative walk among the sequoias, the Big Trees Trail is hard to beat. This 0.8-mile loop circles Round Meadow, offering beautiful views of the meadow and the surrounding sequoia forest.
The trail is mostly flat and paved, making it accessible for visitors of all ages and abilities. Interpretive signs along the way provide information about the sequoia ecosystem, the importance of meadows, and the wildlife that calls this area home.
One of the unique aspects of the Big Trees Trail is the opportunity to see sequoias at different stages of growth. From young saplings to mature giants, the trail showcases the entire life cycle of these remarkable trees. It’s a vivid illustration of the forest’s regeneration and the timescales on which these ancient ecosystems operate.
The changing seasons bring different charms to the Big Trees Trail. In spring, wildflowers dot the meadow, while fall brings golden hues to the grasses. Winter transforms the scene into a snowy wonderland, with the red bark of the sequoias standing out against the white landscape.
7. Visit Crescent Meadow
Often referred to as the “Gem of the Sierra,” Crescent Meadow is a beautiful and ecologically important area within Sequoia National Park. This lush meadow, surrounded by towering sequoias, offers visitors a chance to experience the diverse habitats that make up the park’s ecosystem.
The meadow is accessible via a 1.6-mile loop trail that offers stunning views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. In spring and early summer, the meadow comes alive with a colorful display of wildflowers. Keep an eye out for deer grazing in the meadow, and listen for the diverse bird species that call this area home.
One of the highlights near Crescent Meadow is Tharp’s Log, a fallen sequoia that was hollowed out and used as a summer cabin by Hale Tharp, one of the first European Americans to enter the Giant Forest. This unique structure offers a glimpse into the park’s early history and the resourcefulness of its early settlers.
Crescent Meadow is also the starting point for the High Sierra Trail, which leads 60 miles across the Sierra Nevada to Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States. Even if you’re not planning a long-distance hike, the first mile or so of this trail offers beautiful views and a sense of the vast wilderness beyond.
8. See the General Grant Tree
While technically located in the adjacent Kings Canyon National Park, the General Grant Tree is often included in visits to Sequoia National Park due to its proximity and significance. Known as the “Nation’s Christmas Tree,” the General Grant is the second-largest tree in the world by volume.
The General Grant Tree stands 267 feet tall and has a diameter of 29 feet at its base. It’s estimated to be between 1,500 and 2,000 years old. The tree was named in 1867 after Ulysses S. Grant, and in 1926 it was designated the “Nation’s Christmas Tree” by President Calvin Coolidge.
A short, paved trail leads visitors to the base of the tree, offering informative signs along the way. The area around the General Grant Tree, known as the Grant Grove, contains several other notable sequoias and offers additional hiking opportunities.
Visiting the General Grant Tree provides a chance to compare and contrast with the General Sherman Tree in Sequoia National Park. While slightly smaller, the General Grant is no less impressive, and its designation as a national shrine adds an extra layer of historical significance.
9. Hike to Tokopah Falls
For those seeking a more challenging hike with a spectacular reward, the trail to Tokopah Falls is a must-do. This 3.4-mile round trip hike follows the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River to one of the park’s most impressive waterfalls.
Tokopah Falls cascades down 1,200 feet in a series of cataracts and rushes. While the falls are most impressive in late spring and early summer when snowmelt swells the river, the hike is beautiful year-round. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding granite cliffs and passes through diverse habitats, from riparian areas along the river to drier, rocky slopes.
The hike to Tokopah Falls is considered moderate in difficulty, with an elevation gain of about 600 feet. The trail can be rocky in places, so good hiking shoes are recommended. As you hike, keep an eye out for wildlife such as marmots and pikas, which are often seen in the rocky areas near the falls.
At the end of the trail, you’ll be rewarded with a view of the falls and a perfect spot for a picnic. The mist from the falls can provide welcome relief on hot summer days. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out all trash.
10. Spot Wildlife in the Park
Sequoia National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, and spotting animals in their natural habitat can be one of the most exciting aspects of a visit. From large mammals like black bears and mule deer to smaller creatures like marmots and a variety of bird species, the park offers numerous opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Black bears are perhaps the most iconic animals in the park. While they’re called black bears, their color can range from blonde to cinnamon to black. It’s important to remember that these are wild animals and should be observed from a safe distance. Never approach or feed wildlife, and always store food properly to avoid attracting bears to campsites.
Mule deer are commonly seen throughout the park, especially in meadow areas during early morning and evening hours. In higher elevations, you might spot bighorn sheep navigating steep, rocky terrain. Smaller mammals like squirrels, chipmunks, and marmots are frequently seen scurrying about, especially in rocky areas.
Birdwatchers will find plenty to keep them busy in Sequoia National Park. The park is home to over 200 bird species, including the impressive pileated woodpecker, the tiny mountain chickadee, and various raptors like red-tailed hawks and peregrine falcons.
When wildlife watching, always maintain a respectful distance and use binoculars or a zoom lens for a closer look. Remember, you’re a guest in their home.
Planning Your Visit to Sequoia National Park
Getting There and Park Entrance
Sequoia National Park is located in the southern Sierra Nevada mountains of California. The closest major airports are Fresno Yosemite International Airport (about 1.5 hours away) and Los Angeles International Airport (about 4 hours away).
Once you arrive at the park, you’ll need to pay an entrance fee or show a valid pass. The America the Beautiful Pass is highly recommended, especially if you plan to visit multiple national parks during your trip. This pass not only provides access to Sequoia’s main sights but also covers entry to over 2,000 federal recreation sites across the United States.
Park Regulations and Safety
One of the most important safety considerations is wildlife, particularly black bears. While these animals are a thrilling sight, they can be dangerous if not respected. Always store food and scented items in bear-safe containers, and never approach or feed wildlife. It’s worth noting that bear spray is not allowed in the park, so take extra precautions to avoid bear encounters.
Fire regulations are also strictly enforced, especially during dry seasons. Always check current fire restrictions before planning any campfires or use of portable stoves.
Lastly, remember the Leave No Trace principles. Pack out all trash, stay on designated trails, and respect the natural environment.
Lodging Options
Sequoia National Park offers a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets:
- Wuksachi Lodge: This is the park’s signature hotel, offering comfortable rooms and a full-service restaurant. Its central location makes it an excellent base for exploring the park.
- John Muir Lodge: Located in nearby Kings Canyon National Park, this lodge provides a rustic yet comfortable stay with easy access to both parks.
- Grant Grove Cabins: These cabins in Kings Canyon National Park range from basic to more luxurious, offering a true mountain retreat experience.
Camping
For those who prefer a more immersive outdoor experience, Sequoia National Park has several campgrounds:
- Lodgepole Campground: This popular campground is centrally located with easy access to many of the park’s attractions. It offers amenities like flush toilets and running water, as well as proximity to the Lodgepole Village store and visitor center. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season.
- Dorst Creek Campground: Located between Lodgepole and Grant Grove, this campground is a good option for those looking to explore both Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.
- Buckeye Flat Campground: This smaller campground in a more secluded area of the park offers a quieter experience, though it has fewer amenities.
Remember, campgrounds can fill up quickly, especially during summer months. Make reservations well in advance to secure your spot.
Transportation Within the Park
Shuttle Service
To alleviate parking issues and reduce traffic congestion, Sequoia National Park offers a shuttle service to popular trailheads and attractions during peak seasons. This service is particularly useful given the limited parking at many popular sites.
Visitors are advised to arrive early or use the shuttle to avoid parking frustrations, especially at busy locations like the General Sherman Tree. The shuttle is not only convenient but also helps reduce the environmental impact of vehicle traffic in the park.
Driving in the Park
If you choose to drive your own vehicle, be prepared for winding mountain roads and potential wildlife encounters. Some roads in the park have vehicle size restrictions, so check in advance if you’re driving an RV or towing a trailer.
During winter months (typically November to April), snow chains may be required on park roads. Always check current road conditions before setting out, and carry chains if there’s any chance of snow.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to see Sequoia National Park?
While you could drive through the park in a day, we recommend at least 2-3 days to truly appreciate its beauty and see the main attractions. If you want to do extensive hiking or combine your visit with Kings Canyon National Park, plan for 4-5 days or more.
Are dogs allowed in Sequoia National Park?
Dogs are allowed in developed areas of the park, including campgrounds and picnic areas, but must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet. They are not allowed on trails, in park buildings, or in wilderness areas. Service animals are permitted throughout the park.
Is there cell service in Sequoia National Park?
Cell service in the park is limited and unreliable. You may find some coverage near the main visitor centers, but don’t count on it in most areas of the park. It’s best to download maps and any necessary information before entering the park.
Do I need a reservation to visit Sequoia National Park?
As of 2025, general entrance to Sequoia National Park does not require a reservation. However, reservations are required for certain activities like cave tours and some campgrounds. Always check the official National Park Service website for the most up-to-date information on reservations and entry requirements.
Sequoia National Park offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and witness some of the most impressive natural wonders on Earth. So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in the land of giants.