Sequoia National Park

Sequoia

Home to the largest trees on Earth by volume, the Giant Sequoias, set in stunning Sierra Nevada scenery. A remarkable destination for hiking and witnessing nature's grandeur.

Things to do

• Giant Forest Trail — Walk among the largest trees on Earth in this iconic grove featuring the General Sherman tree, the largest known tree by volume.
• Moro Rock Climb — Ascend 350 granite steps to this iconic 6,725-foot peak for panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada and Great Western Divide.
• Crescent Lake Hike — A moderate 1.8-mile roundtrip walk through forest and meadow to a pristine alpine lake reflecting surrounding peaks.
• Congress Trail Loop — This 2-mile path connects numerous massive sequoias and offers interpretive signs explaining the ecology of these ancient giants.
• Tunnel Log Drive-Through — Drive through a 275-foot tunnel carved into a fallen giant sequoia, a unique photographic stop along the main park road.
• Mineral King Valley Scenic Drive — Journey on a winding 25-mile road to a high alpine valley offering stellar hiking, crystalline lakes, and dramatic granite peaks.
• Watchtower Trail — A 2.6-mile hike ascending 1,500 feet to an old fire lookout with sweeping views of the western Sierra foothills.

Food to try

• Mountain-Caught Trout — Fresh trout from the park's pristine streams, typically grilled simply at lodges and nearby communities to highlight its delicate flavor.
• Sierra Nevada Wild Berry Pie — Local bakeries feature pies made with manzanita berries, wild blueberries, and other high-altitude berries native to the region.
• Venison and Game Meat Dishes — Restaurants in gateway towns like Three Rivers serve locally-sourced venison and wild game prepared in hearty, warming preparations.
• Foothills Citrus Fruits — The lower elevations around Sequoia produce excellent oranges, lemons, and stone fruits available fresh at local markets in summer and fall.

Local customs & good to know

• Arrive Early for Popular Trailheads — The General Forest and popular hikes fill parking areas by mid-morning, so begin your day early to secure spots and avoid crowds.
• Respect Sequoia Size Perspective — The massive scale of these trees can be difficult to grasp from photos—allow time to sit quietly among them to truly appreciate their grandeur and age.
• Follow Weather and Road Closures — High elevation roads like Mineral King close seasonally due to snow, and afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so check conditions before heading out.
• Pack Extra Water and Snacks — The park has limited food services, so bring ample water and provisions for day hikes, as the high elevation and dry climate increase dehydration risk.

Nearby

• Death Valley National Park — 169 km
• Yosemite National Park — 169 km
• Santa Barbara — 245 km
• Malibu — 274 km