Overview
Sequoia and Kings Canyon are two adjacent national parks in California's Sierra Nevada that operate as a unified destination with one entrance fee. The parks encompass 865,952 acres of wilderness, ranging from 1,300 feet in the foothills to 14,505 feet at the summit.
Nature · Trekking
Before you go
Connectivity
No cell service or WiFi in parks. Pay phones at all visitor centers. Download offline maps before arriving.
Money
Most services inside the parks are cash-only. Three Rivers offers ATM and banking services. Budget $40-60/day including camping, food, and gas.
Packing
Bring all food and supplies; options inside are minimal. Layered clothing required for altitude changes. Warm jacket even in summer for cave tours (50°F).
Safety
Dial 911 for emergencies. AED devices at visitor centers. Altitude ranges from 1,500-14,505 ft; acclimatize gradually. Bear-proof food storage is mandatory throughout.
Transport
No public transportation exists within the parks. A personal vehicle is essential. Highway 198 (Generals Highway) connects Sequoia's Ash Mountain Entrance to Giant Forest and Grant Grove; Highway 180 traverses Kings Canyon.
Weather
Summer temperatures reach 78°F; winter brings heavy snow (37+ inches in January). Afternoon thunderstorms common July-August. Check road conditions before visiting.