Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, located in the Sierra Nevada of California are home to some of the largest trees on Earth. These adjoining parks have diverse environments from rocky mountain terrain, scenic valleys, lush meadows, dense forests and alpine lakes.
Sequoia National Park is home to the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree in the world by volume. This giant sequoia stands at a height of 275 feet and is estimated to be over 2,200 years old. An easy walking trail leads to the tree, passing through the Giant Forest, where many other towering sequoias.
Hiking and backpacking are among the most popular activities with over 800 miles of trails. One of the premier trails is the High Sierra Trail, which spans 72 miles from Crescent Meadow in Sequoia National Park to the summit of Mt. Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States at 14,505 feet. This multi-day trek offers backpackers the chance to experience the stunning diversity of the Sierra Nevada.
The summit of Mt. Whitney, the highest point in the continental USA is a bucket-list destination for many adventurers. While it can be reached via the High Sierra Trail, the most common route is the Mt. Whitney Trail, starts from Whitney Portal outside of Lone Pine. This strenuous hike covers 22 miles round-trip and requires a permit. Throughout the hike there are breathtaking views, and it is the ultimate sense of accomplishment to reach the peak. This is also a launching point (or exit) of the 211-mile John Muir Trail that leads Backpackers to Yosemite Valley.
Mineral King in the southern part of the park is a haven for hikers and backpackers seeking solitude and stunning vistas. The valley is accessible via a winding mountain road and offers several trailheads leading to high alpine lakes, meadows, and peaks. Popular hikes include the routes to Eagle Lake and Mosquito Lakes, which provide serene settings for day hikes or overnight trips.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon offer activities throughout the year. In the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, backpacking, fishing, and wildlife watching. The parks are home to diverse wildlife, including black bears, mule deer, and a variety of bird species. Ranger-led programs, including guided hikes and educational talks, are available to enhance visitors' understanding of the parks' natural and cultural history.
Winter transforms the parks into a snowy wonderland, with opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and winter camping. The Giant Forest and Wolverton areas are popular spots for winter recreation, offering groomed trails and stunning snow-covered landscapes.
Kings Canyon National Park tends to be less crowded because it requires a drive into the valley. It includes Ceder Grove, Zumwalt Meadow, Roaring River Falls and the second largest tree I the world the general grant tree the stands at 267 feet tall. Known as “the Nation’s Christmas Tree”, there is a ceremony, “Trek to the Nation’s Christmas Tree” held by the Sanger District Chamber of Commerce each year on the second Sunday. The parks' elevation range means that snow can be found at higher altitudes, while lower elevations remain accessible for hiking and sightseeing.
The parks protect numerous cultural sites, including Native American archaeological sites and historic structures from the early days of park exploration and conservation. There are numerous campgrounds and four lodges throughout the parks. Wuksachi Lodge located in the Giant Forest area of Sequoia National Park is located near Lodge Pole and the Giant Forest Museum. Other lodging includes John Muir Lodge, Grant Grove Cabins, Cedar Grove Lodge.
These parks offer a unique opportunity to connect with nature and find inspiration in the towering trees and majestic mountains.
