The Glaciers carved the Kings Canyon's steep granite cliffs, leaving a wide U-shaped valley.
Just above Lodgepole Valley, the trail to the Watchtower offers views above the treeline.
A historic stairway leads to the top of Moro Rock, offering views from foothills to peaks
For those who don't mind icy roads, winter offers stunning views of sequoias in snow.

About

Giant sequoias and steep Sierra Nevada canyons define this stretch of California high country. You can drive through deep foothills to reach Mount Whitney or wander through massive groves of ancient trees.

Quick Facts

Notable for: Huge mountains, rugged foothills, deep canyons, vast caverns, and the world’s largest trees

Founded: September 25, 1890

Elevation: 14,505 feet (4,421 m)

Park Details

Designation: National Parks

Weather

Because of the extreme elevation range in the parks, weather conditions vary widely between areas. In summer, the sequoia groves have comfortable temperatures and the foothills are hot and dry. Snow lingers on high-mountain passes well into summer. In fall, conditions can range from summer-like to winter-like. Winter brings snow to sequoia groves and rain to the foothills. Be prepared for tire chain requirements. Spring is a great time to hike in the foothills and snow begins to melt at higher elevations.

Entrance Fees

  • Entrance - Private Vehicle$35.00

    This pass is valid for 1-7 days and includes everyone traveling in a single vehicle for Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks and Hume Lake District of Sequoia National Forest/Giant Sequoia National Monument.

  • Entrance - Per Person$20.00

    This entry fee is for a single person traveling on foot or by bicycle. It is valid for 1-7 days in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks and Hume Lake District of Sequoia National Forest/Giant Sequoia National Monument.

  • Entrance - Motorcycle$30.00

    Valid for 7 days. Admits up to 2 private, non-commercial motorcycles, scooters, or similar motorized vehicles with up to 4 total passengers to Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks and Hume Lake District of Sequoia National Forest/Giant Sequoia National Monument.

Activities

Auto and ATVScenic DrivingAstronomyStargazingCampingBackcountry CampingCar or Front Country CampingHorse Camping (see also Horse/Stock Use)

Topics

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Sources

  • NPS - National Park Service
  • National Park Service - Data and descriptions courtesy of the National Park Service (NPS), U.S. Department of the Interior. Public domain.
  • Wikipedia - Wikipedia

Trips featuring Sequoia National Park