Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are adjacent parks in California, USA. When you visit, it will feel like one giant National Park. They have different topographies and highlights: Kings Canyon: features deep valleys, high cliffs, and towering trees. Sequoia: known for its large sequoia trees, including the General Sherman tree, the largest living organism by volume. Both parks offer scenic drives, hiking, camping and wildlife viewing opportunities, and are protected areas for the preservation of their unique natural resources. While you could see part of each park in just one day, we recommend 2-3 days for exploring them both.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks in California offer breathtaking scenery, unique landscapes and a plethora of outdoor activities for families with kids. The parks boast towering sequoia trees, crystal-clear streams, and scenic vistas that are sure to awe and inspire visitors of all ages. Whether you’re seeking an adventure or a relaxed vacation, this guide will help you plan a memorable trip to the parks with your kids.
Choose the Right Time of Year for visiting Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
The best time to visit the parks depends on your family’s preferences. Summer months are the warmest and offer a variety of ranger-led programs, while winter months bring snow and offer opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. If you prefer less crowds, consider visiting in the spring or fall. We visited in the Spring and found the crowds to be low. We were at the base of these massive trees and completely alone. Also, consider going after Kings Canyon Scenic Byway opens (often in April once they can get it plowed). We were there on the first opening day of the season and the park was practically empty. With the low crowds, Koen enjoyed using his long board on the paved trails. THIS is the one he has. Because the weather can change so much, here is a month by month breakdown of the weather in these parks:
January: cold, with average high temperatures in the mid-40s and average low temperatures in the mid-20s. Snow and rain are common.
February: similar to January, with average high temperatures in the mid-40s and average low temperatures in the mid-20s. Snow and rain are common.
March: temperatures start to warm up, with average high temperatures in the low-50s and average low temperatures in the low-30s. Rain is common.
April: warmer, with average high temperatures in the mid-60s and average low temperatures in the mid-30s. Rain is common.
May: warm, with average high temperatures in the mid-70s and average low temperatures in the low-40s. Rain is less common.
June: warm to hot, with average high temperatures in the mid-80s and average low temperatures in the mid-50s.
July: hot, with average high temperatures in the mid-80s and average low temperatures in the low-50s.
August: hot, with average high temperatures in the mid-80s and average low temperatures in the low-50s.
September: temperatures start to cool down, with average high temperatures in the mid-70s and average low temperatures in the low-40s.
October: cool, with average high temperatures in the mid-60s and average low temperatures in the mid-30s.
November: cold, with average high temperatures in the mid-50s and average low temperatures in the mid-30s. Rain is common.
December: similar to November, with average high temperatures in the mid-40s and average low temperatures in the mid-20s. Snow and rain are common.
*Please note that these are average conditions and can vary greatly from year to year.
For current park conditions, check out the NPS website HERE.
Pack Appropriately
Be sure to bring comfortable hiking shoes, hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water, especially in the summer months. For outdoor activities, like hiking or picnicking, bring a light backpack, a map of the park, and a survival first-aid kit. Don’t forget warm clothing if you plan to visit in the winter.
Take a Guided Tour
Guided tours are an excellent way to explore Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks and learn about their unique history and ecology. There are several ranger-led programs available for families, including nature walks, campfire talks, and educational programs for kids. Don’t forget to pick up Jr. Ranger Books from the Ranger Station when you first arrive for the kids to work on and then pick up your badges when you finish!
Best Hikes For Families
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks both offer a wide range of hiking trails for families with kids, from easy walks to challenging hikes. Here are some of the best hikes in the parks for families with children:
- Big Trees Trail: This easy, paved trail is perfect for families with strollers and younger children. It takes visitors through a grove of giant sequoia trees and offers great views of the park’s forest.
- Sunset Rock Trail: This short, easy hike provides panoramic views of the park and is a great option for families looking for a quick and easy hike with a great payoff.
- General Sherman Tree Trail: (1.2 mi) A short, paved trail that leads to the base of the world’s largest tree, the General Sherman Tree. This hike is perfect for families with young children, and it’s a great way to experience the majesty of the giant sequoias.
- Tokopah Falls Trail: (3.8 mi) This moderate hike takes visitors through a scenic forest to Tokopah Falls, a beautiful waterfall in the park. The trail is relatively easy and offers great views of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape.
- Muir Grove Trail: This easy, flat trail takes visitors through a grove of giant sequoia trees and offers great views of the forest and nearby mountains. This hike is perfect for families with young children.
Remember to bring plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate footwear for your hike. It’s also a good idea to check trail conditions and obtain a map from the park ranger station before setting out on your hike. Happy trails!
Visit the General Sherman and General Grant Trees
The General Sherman Tree is the largest tree in the world by volume, and it’s a must-see attraction in Sequoia National Park. A short, paved trail leads to the base of the tree, and it’s a great way to stretch your legs and experience the majesty of the giant sequoias. To stand at the base of this tree with my kids was incredibly moving and emotional for me. This is why we travel. The General Grant Trail is very short with a downed Sequoia you can walk through, which was a highlight for our kids. Be sure to look at the ground to find the tiny pinecones that fall from these massive giants.
Enjoy a Picnic
The parks offer several picnic areas where you can enjoy a scenic lunch or dinner surrounded by nature. Pack a picnic basket with your family’s favorite foods, and enjoy a relaxing meal together in the great outdoors. Here are a few nice options for places to picnic.
- Moro Rock
- Crystal Springs picnic area
- Azalea picnic area
- Cedar Grove picnic area
- Sunset picnic area.
Drive Kings Canyon Scenic Byway
Here is a detailed list of key stops along the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway (open sometime in April-October, weather depending):
- Big Stump Entrance Station: The entrance to Kings Canyon National Park.
- Grant Grove Visitor Center: Information about the park and surrounding areas.
- General Grant Tree: A giant sequoia that’s the second largest tree in the world.
- North Grove Loop Trail: A short trail that takes visitors through a grove of sequoia trees.
- Panoramic Point: A scenic viewpoint that provides a sweeping view of the park.
- Roaring River Falls: A waterfall that’s accessible by a short hike from the road.
- Cedar Grove Village: A historic area with lodges, restaurants, and shops.
- Zumwalt Meadow: A peaceful meadow surrounded by cliffs and the Kings River. You can hike around this beautiful meadow.
- Road’s End: A scenic trailhead for backcountry hikes into the deep canyons of the park.
- Mist Falls: A popular waterfall with a great view and several hiking trails leading to it.
- King’s Canyon Overlook: A scenic viewpoint offering a panoramic view of King’s Canyon.
These are some of the most popular and notable stops along the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway, but there are many more opportunities to explore and discover the beauty of the park. This is a beautiful canyon and one of the coolest drives we have ever done.
Visiting Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks with your kids is a unique and memorable experience that your family will never forget. Plan your trip today and experience the natural beauty of California! GO HERE to find out all of our recommendations for places to stay while you are there.
