Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

Established in 1890, Sequoia National Park is the second-oldest national park in the United States, created to protect its colossal sequoia groves. Kings Canyon National Park, added in 1940, complements it with glacier-carved valleys, granite cliffs, and alpine meadows. Together, they form a vast natural sanctuary that celebrates the endurance of time and the raw power of wilderness. The parks are also home to the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on Earth by volume — a living symbol of resilience and majesty.

• Combined area: over 1,350 square miles (3,500 sq km) of wilderness
• Home to the General Sherman Tree, standing 275 feet tall and over 36 feet in diameter
• Recognised as part of the UNESCO-designated Sierra Nevada Biosphere Reserve
• Elevation ranges from 1,300 to over 14,000 feet, offering varied landscapes from forest to alpine peaks
• Over 800 miles of hiking trails, including parts of the famous John Muir Trail

Best Time to Visit Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

• Ideal Seasons: Late May to October for warm weather and full trail access
• Winter Charm: December to February for snow-covered scenery and quiet exploration
• Best Time of Day: Early morning for solitude; sunset and golden hour for photography
• Special Events: Annual Dark Sky Festival in summer celebrates stargazing and astronomy

Things to See / Key Attractions Near Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

• General Sherman Tree: The park’s most famous resident, awe-inspiring in scale and beauty
• Moro Rock: A granite dome offering panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada range
• Crystal Cave: A marble cavern filled with gleaming stalactites and stalagmites (open May–September)
• Kings Canyon Scenic Byway: One of America’s most stunning drives through dramatic canyon landscapes
• Tokopah Falls Trail: A moderate hike leading to a 1,200-foot waterfall
• Hidden Gem: Crescent Meadow — a tranquil spot famously described by John Muir as “the gem of the Sierra.”

How to Reach Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

• Nearest Airport: Fresno Yosemite International Airport (about 1.5 hours away)
• By Car: The parks are accessible via Highway 198 from Visalia or Highway 180 from Fresno
• Public Transport: Limited seasonal shuttles operate from Visalia to the park entrance
• Parking: Available at major trailheads and visitor centres; early arrival recommended during peak season
• Approximate Travel Time: 3.5 hours from San Francisco, 5 hours from Los Angeles

Nearby Attractions & Where to Eat Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

Nearby Attractions:

• Lake Kaweah – perfect for boating and picnics just outside Visalia
• Grant Grove Village – home to the historic General Grant Tree
• Hume Lake – a peaceful alpine lake ideal for kayaking and fishing

Where to Eat:

• The Peaks Restaurant (at Wuksachi Lodge) – rustic dining with mountain views
• Sequoia Coffee Co. (Visalia) – a cosy café serving hearty breakfasts and locally roasted coffee