With many so beautiful sites at one location, it's hard to decide what to do first when visiting Sequoia National Park. You can make a day trip to drive through the park with quick stops for scenic views. Or, you can schedule several days to explore its breathtaking sites. The trails offer a variety of short hikes or day-long treks. Other highlights include exploring the underground cave, waterfalls, and giant Sequoia tree groves. Staying onsite at the park requires advanced reservations. There are several lodges, cabins, and fourteen campgrounds available. So start planning your visit to this beautiful, historic park.
The best place to start your visit at Sequoia National Park is the Giant Forest Museum. You'll find the museum provides an excellent introduction to the park and gives you the lay of the land before embarking on your expedition. If you're looking to do some hiking or biking, the museum is a good starting point for many trails through the giant sequoias and Giant Forest. The historic building features a market and visitor center offering park information and unique finds. In addition, you'll enjoy the interactive exhibits to learn more about the park and trees.
You won't want to leave Sequoia National Park before visiting the landmark tree, General Sherman. Visitors are amazed when they see the 275 feet tall tree with a trunk that is 36 feet in diameter. Of course, you'll enjoy the trail to get there with the scenic views and easy access. But, while you're there, having your picture taken standing next to this tree will dwarf you in size.
One of the best trails at Sequoia National Park is the one that leads to Tokopah Falls. The view of the waterfall with waters pouring over is incredible. It drops 1,200 feet twisting and turning over rugged rocks, forming an assortment of sights to watch and admire the falls. The river becomes placid at the base, further away from the falls. Visitors are known to enjoy the natural swimming holes during the summer months. So, you better plan on taking your swimsuit with you when you visit.
A favorite stop for most visitors is the tunnel log located along the Crescent Meadow Road in the Giant Forest. The enormous fallen tree crosses the road, and the National Park bored a hole through it, making it a must-see attraction for visitors. Of course, you can drive your car through this enormous tree. But if you're on foot, then you can walk under the massive log. Although it's a very brief ride journey, it's definitely worth a few pics for the gram.
There's nothing more awe-inspiring than to walk through the land of giant trees. With over 8,000 sequoias in the park, the scenic views never end. Trails vary in complexity from an hour-long walk to several miles long. With over hundreds of miles in total trails throughout the park, there is something for everyones' abilities.
A favorite of hikers at Sequoia National Park is the trek to Moro Rock. At the top are spectacular views of the Great Western Divide and half of the park. Although the walk can be strenuous in places, visitors affirm that it is well worth the effort to get to the top. There are amazing views at the top of the summit.
After hiking through the park for miles, Grant Grove Village is a welcomed sight. It has a visitor center with most conveniences, including a grocery market and the Grant Grove Restaurant. This is also where some cabins and lodging are available inside the National Park. It's where the General Grant is located, also known as the Nation's Christmas Tree. Visitors enjoy the quiet, rustic experience unlike anywhere else.
If you're not afraid of going underground, then Crystal Cave is a must-see. Visitors call it a surprising delight as part of their visit. The marble cavern is filled with stalactites and stalagmites, and colorful minerals. Once further into the cave, the visitors turn off their lights and view the beautiful array of natural colors.
Although you can't drive your car under Tunnel Rock, you can walk under it and pose for a picture. A favorite landmark for many visitors, it's worth the trip to explore the naturally formed, granite tunnel. Parking is available close by making it a convenient stop.
Viewing this majesty is a must for true nature seekers – the view of Mount Whitney from Sequoia National Park is like no other. The highest mountain in the United States makes the hike worth the trip. But, the steep elevation is best left to the more experienced hikers.