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Activities in Sequoia National Park
1. General Sherman Tree
Get ready to feel small as you stand at the base of the largest tree on earth! The General Sherman Tree is an incredible example of the grandeur, beauty, and majesty of Sequoia National Park.
What You Need to Know
This sequoia tree is the largest tree by volume (not the tallest tree in the world). He’s an impressive 275 feet tall and 36.5 feet wide at the base. This is the absolute #1 thing to see as a first-time visitor to the Sequoia and Kings Canyon area.
The main trail to the General Sherman Tree is 1 mile roundtrip. Pets are not permitted.
Getting Here
You’ve got a few options for hiking to the General Sherman Tree: park at the main trailhead (recommended), park at Wolverton and take the free park shuttle to the main trailhead, or park at the handicapped parking ONLY if you have a placard.
To get to the main trailhead from the Lodgepole Visitor Center, turn left onto the Generals Highway (the main park road) and drive south for 1.6 miles. Take a left toward Wolverton/General Sherman Tree and drive for 0.6 miles. Turn right to follow the signs to the General Sherman Tree Trailhead and drive for another 0.6 miles. The road dead-ends at the parking area and trailhead.
If the main trailhead parking lot is full, you can drive back out to the Wolverton Road and take a right to head toward the Wolverton Picnic Area. Drive for 0.8 miles to the end of the road and park here to catch the Orange Shuttle back to the main trailhead.
If you have a handicapped placard, you can park at a small lot that gets you closer to the General Sherman Tree via a short, accessible trail. To get to this parking lot from the Lodgepole Visitor Center, turn left onto the Generals Highway and drive south for 2.2 miles until you see the parking area on your left.
2. Tokopah Falls
Enjoy a peaceful hike to this 1,200-foot waterfall! Ooh and ahh as you watch it gracefully cascading down the dramatic rocky cliffs.
What You Need to Know
This hike is 3.4 miles roundtrip and travels alongside the Kaweah River for a majority of the time. It does gain some elevation but for the most part is an easy hike through the woods.
Look for marmots on this trail — they like to hang out here! The water does start to dry up as the summer goes on, making early summer the best time to see the power of this waterfall.
All trails in Sequoia-Kings do not allow pets.
Getting Here
The Tokopah Falls Trail starts near the Lodgepole Campground. Drive past the Visitor Center and through the campground entrance kiosk. You’ll reach a large open parking area with bathrooms and a nature center. Park near the bathrooms and walk across the log bridge (this bridge is for cars, too, and leads to some campsites). When you reach the other side of the bridge, look for the trailhead sign on your right. This is the trail to Tokopah Falls.
3. Big Trees Loop
Take a stroll along the fringes of a gorgeous meadow surrounded by giant sequoias! Interpretive panels will help you understand more about these phenomenal trees as you enjoy the scenery.
What You Need to Know
This trail is an easy 0.6-mile loop that is flat and wheelchair accessible. Pets are not permitted.
Getting Here
The parking for this trail is located directly across the street from the Giant Forest Museum. From the parking area, walk down the stairs to the trail map. While facing the trail map, take a left and walk along the path. You’ll follow alongside the road for a short time until you enter the Big Trees area.
4. Moro Rock
Climb the stairway to the clouds as you ascend to the top of Moro Rock! This dramatic overlook offers unbelievable views of the beautiful canyon, river, and trees below.
What You Need to Know
This hike is 0.5 miles roundtrip and gains about 300 feet of elevation. Moro Rock is 6,725 feet above sea level! Stairs and walkways are carved into the side of this giant granite dome so expect steep drop-offs — though there are guardrails.
Watch the weather before you begin your hike. You do not want to attempt this trail in the rain (it can get very slippery) or during thunderstorms (you are extremely exposed to lightning).
If heights are not your thing, check out the Buena Vista hike. This lovely trail is short and offers great views without the big cliffs.
All trails do not allow pets in Sequoia-Kings.
Getting Here
Finding the road to Moro Rock can be a little tricky. You’ll want to turn into a small parking lot right next to the Giant Forest Museum and look for the road immediately on your right that goes up the hill. Drive along this road for approximately 1.6 miles (following the signs to Moro Rock) to reach the trailhead.
Vehicles longer than 22 feet are prohibited on this road. The road is also closed to private vehicles on weekends and holidays during the summer. If either of these situations applies to you, park at the large parking area across the street from the Giant Forest Museum and catch the free GRAY shuttle to reach the trailhead.
5. Congress Trail
Stand among giants as you follow the trail to some of the largest trees in the world, including the President, the House, and the Senate.
What You Need to Know
Although this hike can be found right by the General Sherman Tree, the crowds thin out considerably once you hit the trail. This loop is 3.3 miles roundtrip, and pets are not permitted.
The President Tree is actually the 3rd largest tree in the world! The House and the Senate are groups of large sequoias that are phenomenal…it’s impressive to see so many beautiful trees in one spot.
Getting Here
Follow the instructions above to reach the General Sherman Tree. The Congress Trail is well-signed and starts near the General Sherman Tree.
6. Tunnel Log and Crescent Meadow
Visit the place that John Muir called the “Gem of the Sierra.” This extraordinary meadow is a fabulous place to enjoy the high alpine air while wildlife watching and gazing at the trees. You even get to drive through a giant sequoia on your way here!
What You Need to Know
This gorgeous area is a fun and easy way to dig into this park a little deeper. You’ll drive through Tunnel Log on your way to the meadow — it’s a win-win!
There is a short loop around Crescent Meadow (1.3 miles roundtrip), or you can venture a little further out to Tharp’s Log. Here you’ll find an old cabin that was built into the hollowed-out center of a giant sequoia. You’ll also find another peaceful meadow next to the cabin. Pets are not permitted.
Getting Here
Finding the road to Crescent Meadow can be a little tricky. You’ll want to turn into a small parking lot right next to the Giant Forest Museum and look for the road immediately on your right that goes up the hill. Drive along this road for approximately 2.6 miles (following the signs to Crescent Meadow) to reach the trailhead.
Vehicles longer than 22 feet are prohibited on this road. The road is also closed to private vehicles on weekends and holidays during the summer. If either of these situations apply to you, park at the large parking area across the street from the Giant Forest Museum and catch the free GRAY shuttle to reach the trailhead.
Click NEXT to see sights 7-10 (including a gorgeous meadow and a roaring waterfall!)
All 4 lodges are booked inside Sequoia park. Suggestions for lodging near ?!
We purchased your Yosemite itinerary!
If you can’t get anything in the national park or national forest, then you’ll need to go down the mountain to Three Rivers, Pinehurst, or Yokuts Valley. But be sure to check the lodging options in the national forest (like Stony Creek or Montecito) because a lot of people don’t realize those are options right up there!
Hi Ash, my wife and I are doing Yosemite to Canyon Land with stops in Kings Canyon/ Sequoia, drive thru Death Valley, stops in Zion, Bryce, drive tru rte 12, Capital Reef, stops inArches and canyon land in a 2 weeks timeframe (May7 to the 21st). Does that seem reasonable?
Yeah, you can do all of those in 2 weeks if you move quick!
Hi Ash,
Do you have an itinerary yet for Sequioa and Kings Canyon? I saw you were planning on writing one but I wanted to double check! Thanks!
I don’t yet :( I was going to write one in 2020, but Covid shut everything down and things are still getting back to normal in that park. I’m waiting for them to solidify their shuttles, opening/closing dates, and to open up some activities that have been closed before I write it!
Hi, thank you for all this information. If I want to see everything that you recommend in Sequoia Park, how long will it take?
I’d give yourself at least 3 days to get through this list. Enjoy!
What time of year would you say is the best time to visit?
July – September!
I noticed on your Yosemite articles that waterfalls were dried up in sept/October. Is this true for sequoia/kings canyon?
They may not dry up completely, but they will be significantly smaller than they are earlier in the summer!
Would love an itinerary for Sequoia! Hoping to squeeze it all in.
It’s on my list of itineraries to write, but I am going to go back to the park this summer before I write it. I hope you have a great time on your trip, though!
Hi Ash,
I have purchased your itineraries for several parks – Zion, Arches, Grand Tetons, etc. I was looking over your top things to do/see for Sequoia-Kings Canyon. We were thinking about traveling at end of February-2023. Do you think this is a good time to visit? I did notice you mentioned some areas are closed in winter. We want to be able to do and see all ten activities you mentioned – is this possible during the end of February? We were trying to visit before peak season and when it is a little cooler. Suggestions?
You won’t be able to get to everything on this list in February. If you’re wanting to go before it gets too crowded, you can go toward the end of May right before Memorial Day or in September after Labor Day. But last time I was there in May, we got snowed on so you never know :)
Hi Ash,
Question: The last item on this list, #10…I’ll be in an RV, so are there any suggestions on places to park and shuttles to take (or paths to hike) or do I just need to skip this site?
You’ll just need to skip this one. Have fun!
Ash,
We are planning a trip to Yosemite and Sequoia in June 2023. When is the best time to purchase permits and how /where do we purchase these? We will most likely be staying in a hotel or Airbnbs nearby.
Thanks so much
Hey Marne, not sure what permits you’re referring to? You can contact me if you want to provide more details so I can answer your question!
Love this, we are coming from FL on Oct. 3-10 any weather related tips?
That time of year is pretty unpredictable — it could be sunny or snowy! I would pack layers (including a waterproof outer shell) so that you can adjust based on the weather!
You can purchase permits for Yosemite at Recreation.gov. Permits are not needed so far at Sequoia and Kings Canyon. I purchased mine permits 6 months in advance. It costs $2 per permit and permits last for three days for Yosemite.
I visited Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon just three weeks ago.
If I am coming from Yosemite, should I hit Kings first and then Sequoia? IM trying to map it out but it’s not showing me a distance to go all the way inside the park.
Yes, but a huge portion of Kings Canyon is closed this year, so plan on spending more time in Sequoia!
Hi Ash,
We are going in July 2023, do we need to make reservations to visit Sequoia or Yosemite Forest? Are there any covid restrictions? We are not hikers, what is a must have for beginners hikers?
Thank you
No extra reservations are needed for those parks this year. Have fun!
Hi Ash-thank you so much for this article. My husband and I are planning to visit Sequoia and Kings in mid-October to celebrate our anniversary. Do you have an itinerary that can be purchased? We were thinking of staying in Visalia-any thoughts? We have one week to visit (coming from Asheville, NC). Any advise is greatly appreciated.
Sequoia is currently closed due to a large wildfire, so you’ll want to check the most current updates before you go. I don’t offer an itinerary for those parks at this time, but thanks for asking!
Any chance you have an itinerary made up for this yet? I’ve become too dependent on you. :)
We’re planning to visit at the end of August/beginning of September. Do you happen to know if any of the waterfalls will still be flowing by then? I’m thinking three days. Does that sound like enough? There doesn’t seem to be any park lodging available; where would you stay?
I don’t have an itinerary for this one yet, but have a great time!
Hi ash
We bought the Yosemite itinerary and it was great you’re recommendations. Since there are no shuttles running this year we rented some bikes and it was easy and fast being from one place to another. Will leave Tomorrow to the sequioa park. Do you have an itinerary for one day visit ? Thanks
I’m glad you enjoyed Yosemite! I don’t have an itinerary for Sequoia Kings at this time, but I hope you have an amazing time!
Thanks so much for this! Do you remember which trail that first picture (the one that has a couple of people walking down the dirt path next to that massive tree) was taken on?
That was the Congress Trail!
Hi Ash. I love all of your guides! Would I be able to get a PDF copy of this one for Sequoia and Kings Canyon? Thank you!!
Hi Bridget! Please contact me to arrange it.
I’m planning on tent camping in one of the Cedar Grove campgrounds June 3rd through the 10th of 2021. Do you think there will be any first come, first serve opening in any of the three campgrounds then?
No, it’s looking like they are requiring reservations in all of their campgrounds this year. Safe travels!
Hi Ash, I got lucky to find some weekend spots open at the lodgepole campground on the May 15th weekend, your list is amazing and became my main plan already. I have few concerns about whether about that time, we are visiting with 2 kids (4 and 9) and we are staying in the tent. Do night temperatures are on 2nd week of may bearable or it may be severe for the kids, what do you think? We camped before with them but it was mostly in summer or early fall. Thanks in advance
You’ll definitely want to pack for cold nighttime temps that time of year!
Hey Ash! Thanks for all the info! I really do appreciate it. My girlfriend and I will be staying down there for 3 nights and 4 days in Three Rivers. But we are really close the the beginning of the park entrance (from that side of course!). Do you think we’ll be able to hit all the things on this list? And are there any hidden gems to find along the way? Don’t get me wrong, this is an awesome list, just trying to pick your brain since you seem to know a LOT about these places. Thanks again for posting all this and have great day!
P.S. Great name! Definitely a perfect fit for an adventurer like you
4 days is a good amount of time for working through this list, even if you’re staying in Three Rivers! Have a great time!
Hi Ash! Thank you for the information, we’re roadtrippin’ to Sequoia soon and we’ll make sure hit these top ten! We also heard about Crystal Cave Tours! Are those worthwhile? We love hiking and trees, but we’re trying to switch some things up as well! If so, where would you recommend checking for camp sites?
Thank you so much!
Crystal Cave is cool, but it does take a good chunk of your day to drive there and go on the tour. If you have a lot of time in the park, then it’s a fun diversion. But if you only have a day or two, I think the time is better spent with the hikes and viewpoints listed. Have fun!
Hi,
We are planning to visit next weekend but we can’t find any places to stay. can anyone suggest some inn/lodge or hotels? we also looked for some camping places but most of them are booked and remaining are first come first serve. so we take the risk or not?
We will be visiting both Kings canyon and sequoia NP.
Any suggestion would help.
Thanks
I was able to find a very secluded camp spot near the parks using hipcamp.com.
Could you please tell me which hipcamp spot this is? I am looking for a place to stay in October, and would love to find some place secluded
Hi there. I have purchased your Utah trip Itineraries in the past. I don’t see a trip itinerary for Kings Canyon and Sequoia, but I do see the “Things You Can’t Miss.” How can I get a copy of the “Things You Can’t Miss” list? Thank you.
I don’t currently have an itinerary for Sequoia Kings, though it is in the works for next summer. If you’d like a nice PDF of this article to print out and take with you, I do offer those for a very small fee. You can email me at ash(at)dirtinmyshoes(dot)com to request one. Have a great trip!
Deanna, did you get the PDF of this article?
Was it worhtwhile?
We are headed out to the park next week and I am looking for a good resource to guide us through it.
This is a spectacular list! I just wanted to send a few updates for visitors in 2020 – due to COVID-19 the parks’ will not be offering first-come, first-served campsites at all, instead reservations must be made using Recreation.gov. Secondly, the park shuttle buses will unfortunately not be running at all during 2020. For the most up to date information check out the Sequoia and Kings NPS website [www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/currentconditions.htm]. Best of luck to you Ash, your mission to share the wonders of the natural is worth admiration! Keep up the great work!
-Krista, Sequoia Guides
Thanks for pointing that out. Things change so fast, it’s always best to check the official NPS site for the most up-to-date info. Happy trails!
Hi Ash!! How much time would we need to cover this list? I’m sorry if you’ve already covered this 😬 We will be following your Yosemite plan and wondered how many days to tack on, to cover this list as well…they’re so close!!
Thanks!!
Jackie Hollander
I would aim for three extra days to get through this list…four if you can :)
Hi Ash, we are planning our trip to Sequoia and kings canyon and will hit your top 10 list.
We have a week and is it better to stay at one lodge for the entire time or split our lodging up at two locations to make the travel easier in the park?
We ordered maps and maybe it will be easier to plan out once we see them but your thoughts on this will be helpful so we can get our lodging booked.
thank you
I personally prefer to stay in two different spots when I visit Sequoia Kings. I split it up by staying a few nights near General Sherman/Big Trees and a few nights near Grant Grove or down in Kings Canyon by the Cedar Grove Visitor Center if I plan to complete some longer trails. That helps break up the driving and makes it more enjoyable in my opinion. Have fun!
Great article. My family and I are visiting Sequoia for the first time next week for three days. I am going to use your article as an itinerary for our trip. I have heard that there are places that you can slide down natural rock slides. I heard Hume Lake might have some slides but not sure. Do you recommend anywhere to cool off?
Thank you!
Maybe the one at Buckeye Flat?
I am heading out there in two weeks as a last minute trip. We are flying in from Fresno airport. Can you suggest a neutral area to book a hotel in?
If there are any rooms available inside Sequoia-Kings, I’d go there first. Otherwise, the small towns along Highways 180 or 198 will have some lodging options. If you stay out there, you’ll have a decent amount of driving to get to the various sections of the parks. Have fun!
This is great! We are planning our third trip to the park, and we still haven’t seen everything on your list. I’ll be using this as a guide :)
Awesome! Have a great time!
We have purchased several of your itineraries and are planning a trip to Yosemite next year with one of your itineraries also. I realize there is no itinerary for sequoia, but how many days would you suggest to see you “must see” places in the park?
I would aim for 3 if you can!