A traveler's guide to Sequoia National Park
Sequoia National Park is a U.S. National Park in California. The General Sherman Tree and a grove that resets your sense of scale.
Giant Forest is the point. Moro Rock, Crescent Meadow, and the Sherman Tree shuttle in peak season. Kings Canyon is next door. Together they are the Sierra's big-tree country California.
When to go
June–September; winter for snow-covered giants if roads allow is the window most visitors aim for. Shoulder seasons mean fewer cars at trailheads. Winter can close roads; summer can fill parking lots by 8 a.m. Check NPS alerts the night before you drive in.
How to see it
Start with general Sherman Tree. Then congress Trail through Giant Forest. If you have a second day, moro Rock stairs. Keep one spare hour for crescent Meadow at quiet hours.
Park practicalities
An America the Beautiful pass covers entry at most national parks. Timed-entry reservations are used at several busy parks in peak season — book those before lodging. Wildlife has the right of way; 25 yards from most animals, 100 yards from bears and wolves.
If you only remember this
- Vehicles over a certain length are restricted on the Generals Highway. Check before you rent an RV.
- Download offline maps. Cell service drops in most parks.
- Bring layers. Elevation and wind change the day faster than the forecast.
- Enter the park early. Famous lots and shuttles fill first.