Visiting the Sequoia National Park in California

Sequoia National Park is an astonishing landscape filled with giant sequoia trees, snow-capped mountains, and abundant wildlife. The park receives just over 1 million visitors per year, which is surprising considering the number of things to do and explore in this stunning national park. If you’re planning a trip to Sequoia National Park soon, it’s the perfect time of year to visit as summer brings epic views of the Grove. While there are many activities to take part in here, you can also plan your trip with these helpful tips on what to see, where to eat, and stay when visiting this magnificent place.

1. About Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is located near the center of California, about 180 miles from Los Angeles. The park protects over 108,000 acres of forests, mountains, and rivers. Find out more about the park’s sequoia groves, which are the largest in the world. Walk through the Tunnel Log and Frog Log, two impressive sequoias near the Park’s Big Trees Museum. Roam the park’s trails and hike to the top of the nearby Mount Sequoyah.

2. Things to do at Sequoia National Park

If you are planning a visit to this amazing park just outside of Visalia, CA, you might be curious about what activities are available. You’ll find an assortment of things to do here, from hiking to camping. The park has something for everyone, and exploring its many trails is a fantastic way to spend a day.

Visit the Lodge at Sequoia National Park, explore the Giant Sequoia General Grant Tree, Big Trees, or take a hike. There are many activities to do at Sequoia National Park.

Sequoia National Park is one of the largest national parks in the United States. It is home to some of the largest trees on Earth. You can explore this massive park by car or take a hiking tour.

3. When to visit Sequoia National Park

The best time to visit this park is from mid-October through mid-March. The weather is much milder during these months, and you will avoid the crowds of summer vacationers. If you do visit during the summer, try to visit the park before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. The temperatures can be up to 20 degrees hotter during the day, and the majority of the attractions are closed. If you are planning a visit during the fall, the National Park Service recommends that you arrive before the first snowfall, which usually happens in October.

4. Check out the Giant Sequoias

Many of the same adjectives are frequently used by visitors to the Giant Forest to describe it, such as "awe-inspiring," "wonderful," and a "must-see." The largest sequoia grove in the park, the huge sequoia grove is situated between the Marble and Middle Forks of the Kaweah River and has more than 8,000 sequoias. The Giant Sequoias are the oldest and largest living things on earth. There are three groves in the park where you can explore these giant trees. 

The Giant Forest: This grove holds the most Giant Sequoias in the park with over 100 species. There are also many different types of trees, ferns, and flowers. The best way to explore is by taking the Discovery Trail, which takes you around the main sequoia grove. 

The Road to the Big Trees: This 12-mile road leads you to the famous Big Trees Grove. You’ll drive through the shaded forest, filled with sequoias, firs, cedars, and maples along the way. There are also several pull-outs along the way where you can get out and explore the grove. 

The Sequoia Groves: The Sequoia Groves are a little out of the way, but totally worth it. This groove is home to the world’s largest tree, the General Sherman Tree. There are also many other stunning sequoias to explore.

5. See the breathtaking views from Glacier Point

The best place to see the stunning views of the park is at the top of Glacier Point. This is one place you must visit during your trip to Sequoia National Park. There is a hiking trail that leads from the Visitors Center to the top of Glacier Point. The trail is long but well worth it as the views are truly breathtaking. You’ll walk through the forest, along the river, and up rocky cliffs, but the view at the top is worth all the hard work. There is an incredible view of the famous Giant Forest that is well worth the trip.

6. Hike to Crystal Cave

Crystal Cave is a beautiful cave located just outside of the Giant Forest. The best way to explore the cave is with a guided tour. Crystal Cave hosts more than 100,000 visitors each year. Many people come to explore the magical cave as it is home to a variety of different crystals. Crystal Cave is a stunning place to visit. Visitors explore the cave by walking through a long, dark tunnel. Once inside the cave, you’ll see the magical crystals that have formed over time. 

7. Go rock climbing at Cardwell-Elk Summit

Cardwell-Elk Summit is a popular rock climbing location, located just off the General's Highway. This is the perfect adventure for those who love the thrill of climbing. The area has routes for everyone and all skill levels. You can choose a vertical or overhanging wall, a slab, or a crack. There are also many different areas to explore. You can also try your hand at bouldering, which is a form of rock climbing where you don’t use ropes. This is a great way to try climbing if you’re a beginner.

8. Run and hike to the top of Mt. Whitney

Mt. Whitney is the highest mountain in the lower 48 states. The easiest and most popular way to explore the mountain is by taking the 14-mile hike. You’ll start at the trailhead behind the State Park Inn. The trail leads through the forest and up rocky cliffs. You’ll also walk along the riverside for a short period of time. It’s a long and challenging hike, but the reward at the end is well worth it. The views from the top are truly stunning. You’ll be able to see the vast landscape around you, including Sequoia National Park.

Travelers who have ascended Mount Whitney advise drinking plenty of water the entire way and beginning your hikes early in the day. Some suggested that aspiring mountaineers bring narcotics to ease stiff muscles and lots of clothing to stay warm. The majority of people did agree, however, that if you feel ready to take on the task, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views at numerous locations along your route.

Conclusion

Sequoia National Park is a truly breathtaking place to visit. The park is home to some of the oldest and largest trees in the world. There are many amazing things to explore at Sequoia National Park, making it an exciting place to visit. From giant sequoias, breathtaking views, and rock climbing, to hiking to the top of Mt. Whitney, there are many activities to take part in when visiting this national park. Follow leisure.com for more travel tips and suggestions.