Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks – California
Everything is bigger in Texas - usually. When it comes to trees, however, California reigns supreme， sports fitness .
If you don't mind being a little rougher, there's no more affordable and accessible place to view the state's giant tree than Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, two adjacent preserves that attract thousands each year tourists. Sequoias have some of the largest trees in the world, while Kings Canyon has a long stretch of mountains that includes the lower 48 highest peaks. Whether you enjoy rugged hikes along alpine ridges or enjoy connecting with the planet's incredible biodiversity, this corner of California is a handy playground that won't drain your wallet.
You might also like: The Pacific Crest Trail, which traverses this part of the mountains on the way from Southern California to the Canadian border, is easily our roundup of the top long-distance hiking trails to escape civilization. Did you hike some or all of the PCT or any other route on the list?
Admission: $30 for a 7-day vehicle pass, $15 for a non-motorized pass. Best time to visit: Sequoia and Kings Canyon have far fewer visitors than nearby Yosemite National Park, so you don't need to plan your trip around peak season. However, the weather in these parks varies greatly depending on the altitude, with lower elevations in summer and the alpine areas being frozen for most of the year. Even redwood forests can see snow as early as late September and May. Mid-June to mid-September can be the best season for the weather. How to get there: Depending on which park you're going to, Sequoia and Kings Canyon are about an hour from Fresno and three and a half hours from Los Angeles and San Francisco, with ideal traffic. Fresno Yosemite has direct flights to Seattle, Los Angeles, Denver, and other destinations, but fares can be expensive. Where to Stay: With few large settlements nearby, it can be difficult to find affordable hotels and motels near Kings Canyon and Sequoia. Accommodations in or near the park, such as Cedar Grove Lodge, can cost more than $100 per night. Camping is definitely more cost effective, there are about a dozen campsites at various elevations. Prices range from $12 to $40 per night, depending on location and amenities. Note that higher campgrounds may only be open during the summer months. What to do: While Yosemite's vertical assets receive more attention, Sequoia and Kings Canyon are popular climbing destinations. If you want your feet on the ground, popular day hikes abound. For an alpine experience, head to Mineral Kings. Prepare properly: At these altitudes, you'll want to slow down and bring more water and sunscreen. To see more redwoods than you can on the road, use Grant Grove Village as your base camp to explore mid-altitude canyons and crags. Special Events and Attractions: In Sequoia, the Giant Forest Museum is a great place to start if you or your kids are interested in the science behind the area's unique ecosystem. Do not take pictures with Generals Sherman and Grant as you leave.
