SEQUOIA AND KINGS NATIONAL PARKS 4-DAY ITINERARY
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, located in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, are home to some of the largest trees on Earth and breathtaking landscapes. Here’s a detailed four-day itinerary to help you make the most of your visit.
Day 1: Arrival and Giant Forest
Check into Your Accommodation: Depending on your preference, you can camp in the parks or stay in nearby lodging in Three Rivers or Grant Grove Village. Start your adventure at the Giant Forest Museum to learn about the giant sequoias and the park's ecology. Explore the General Sherman Tree: Walk the short, paved trail to see the world’s largest tree by volume. The tree is about 2,200 years old and stands at 275 feet tall.
Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the towering trees. There are several picnic areas available. Hike the Congress Trails a 2-mile loop that starts near the General Sherman Tree. You'll see more giant sequoias, including the Senate Group and several other notable trees.
Drive to Moro Rock for a stunning sunset view. The climb to the top is short but steep, offering panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada. Enjoy a meal at a nearby lodge or cook at your campsite.
Day 2: Kings Canyon Exploration
Take the Generals Highway to Kings Canyon National Park. Enjoy the beautiful views along the way. Visit the General Grant Tree, the second-largest tree in the world. The area has a short loop trail that showcases several other giant sequoias. Have a picnic at Grant Grove. Head into Kings Canyon via the scenic byway. Stop at various viewpoints along the way, including the famous Grizzly Falls and the Canyon Viewpoint.
Explore Cedar Grove and take a short hike on the Cedar Grove Loop Trail (1.6 miles), which offers beautiful river views and towering cliffs. If camping at Cedar Grove, settle in for a night under the stars. This area is known for its dark skies.
Day 3: Hiking and Adventure
Hike to Mist Falls; start early and hike this 8-mile round trip trail that leads to stunning waterfalls and picturesque views of the canyon. Enjoy lunch at the falls before heading back. If you have energy left, consider the shorter Cedar Grove Overlook or Roaring River Falls for additional scenic views. Drive back to Grant Grove and settle in for dinner and relax after a long day of hiking.
Day 4: Exploring the Sierra Nevada
Check availability for the Crystal Cave tours. This fascinating marble cave features beautiful formations. Tours typically last about 1 hour.
Hike to Tokopah Falls; this moderate 4-mile round trip hike leads you to a stunning waterfall with great views along the way. Pack a lunch to enjoy near the falls. Head down to the foothills area. Visit the Foothills Visitor Center and explore the nearby trails such as the Hickory Flat Trail. As you prepare to leave, take a final drive through the park, stopping at your favorite viewpoints.
Tips for Your Visit
If camping, reserve your site in advance, especially during peak season. Temperatures can change quickly in the mountains, so dress in layers and bring rain gear. Keep a safe distance from wildlife, and never feed them. Carry enough water, especially during hikes.
This 4-day itinerary provides a comprehensive experience of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, showcasing their incredible natural beauty and unique features. Enjoy your adventure!
Before your trip, make sure to grab your
Sequoia and Kings Canyon NP Map Neck Gaiter
BEST CAMPSITES
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks offer a range of camping options amidst towering sequoias and breathtaking landscapes. Here’s a guide to some of the best campsites in the parks:
Lodgepole Campground
Near the Giant Forest. This is one of the most popular campgrounds due to its proximity to major attractions like the General Sherman Tree and several hiking trails. Flush toilets, showers, and a camp store. Reservations recommended during peak season.
Dorst Creek Campground
Near the intersection of the Generals Highway and the road to the Giant Forest. Surrounded by giant sequoias, it’s a great spot for families and offers easy access to hiking trails. Flush toilets, picnic tables, and fire pits. Reservations recommended.
Grant Grove Campground
Kings Canyon National Park, close to the General Grant Tree. A beautiful grove of giant sequoias, with easy access to the Grant Grove area and several hiking trails. Restrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings. Reservations can be made.
Cedar Grove Campground
At the end of the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway. Offers a more remote and quieter experience, with access to the stunning Cedar Grove area and hiking trails like the Mist Falls Trail. Flush toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings. No reservations, first-come, first-served.
Silver City Campground
Near the entrance to Kings Canyon. Nestled among pine trees, this campground provides a more secluded experience and is close to the picturesque Silver City area. Restrooms and picnic tables. Reservations are not available; it operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Buckeye Flat Campground
Along the Middle Fork of the Kaweah River. A beautiful setting with river access and plenty of shade from surrounding trees. Great for those looking for a more rustic experience. Restrooms, fire rings, and picnic tables. First-come, first-served.
Camping Tips
Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially in peak season (May to September). Make reservations where possible. Bring enough food, water, and camping gear, as some areas have limited amenities. Store food properly to avoid attracting wildlife and maintain a safe distance from animals. Leave No Trace: Follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the natural beauty of the parks.
These campsites offer diverse experiences, from family-friendly amenities to more remote and tranquil settings, ensuring that you can find the perfect spot to immerse yourself in the beauty of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks!