Sequoia National Park is a haven for adventurers, offering a rich array of outdoor activities amid stunning natural beauty. Here are twenty epic things to do in this breathtaking park:
- Visit the General Sherman Tree: Begin your journey at the world’s largest tree by volume. Standing 275 feet tall and over 36 feet in diameter at the base, it’s a humbling introduction to the park.
- Explore the Giant Forest: This 1,880-acre grove houses five of the ten largest trees in the world. Wander through the forest and marvel at the grandeur of these ancient beings.
- Hike to Moro Rock: A steep 350-step staircase leads you to the top of this granite dome, offering panoramic views of the park and the Great Western Divide.
- Discover the Crystal Cave: Tour this marble karst cave adorned with sparkling formations. Remember, tours must be pre-booked, and the cave is usually open from May to November.
- Traverse the Congress Trail: This 2-mile loop hike takes you past the House and Senate Groups, clusters of giant sequoia trees, and the President Tree, the third largest tree in the world.
- Hike to Tokopah Falls: This 3.4-mile round trip trail along the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River leads you to an impressive 1,200-foot waterfall. Best viewed in spring and early summer when the water flow is high.
- Visit the Giant Forest Museum: Learn about the natural history of giant sequoias and the park’s ecology through informative exhibits.
- Drive Through Tunnel Log: An enormous sequoia fell across the road in 1937. Instead of removing it, a tunnel was carved through, creating a unique drive-through experience.
- Climb Mount Whitney: For experienced hikers, climbing the tallest peak in the contiguous United States is a must-do. The 22-mile round trip is strenuous and requires a permit.
- Camp Under the Stars: With 14 campgrounds, there’s no shortage of spots to pitch a tent and spend a night under the sequoias. Make sure to book in advance during peak season.
- Attend a Ranger-led Program: Join park rangers for talks, walks, and campfire programs to learn more about the park’s ecology, history, and conservation efforts.
- Birdwatching: With over 200 species of birds, bring your binoculars and enjoy spotting the diverse birdlife, from owls to eagles.
- Horseback Riding: Guided horseback tours offer another way to explore the trails and enjoy the stunning scenery. Suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
- Winter Sports: In winter, enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sledding. The park transforms into a winter wonderland offering a unique perspective of the sequoias.
- Stroll Along the Big Trees Trail: This easy, wheelchair-accessible trail circles Round Meadow, home to many beautiful sequoias and a great spot for wildflower viewing in the spring.
- Explore Tharp’s Log: Visit this unique cabin built into a hollowed-out fallen sequoia by one of the park’s earliest European settlers, Hale Tharp.
- Fishing: The park’s rivers and lakes offer excellent fishing opportunities. However, do ensure you follow all state fishing regulations.
- Experience High Sierra Trail: For a multi-day hike, embark on the High Sierra Trail leading from Crescent Meadow to the summit of Mount Whitney. Plan ahead and make sure to get a wilderness permit.
- Enjoy a Picnic: There are several beautiful picnic areas in the park. Pack a Enjoy a Picnic: There are several beautiful picnic areas in the park. Pack a lunch and enjoy a meal amid nature’s splendor. Popular spots include the Hospital Rock Picnic Area with its fascinating petroglyphs, and the Crescent Meadow Picnic Area where you can feast your eyes on a meadow full of wildflowers.
- Take a Sunrise or Sunset Walk: Finally, no visit to Sequoia National Park would be complete without experiencing the magic of sunrise or sunset. The colors of the sky against the silhouette of the towering trees offer a truly majestic spectacle. A popular spot for this is Beetle Rock, located near the Giant Forest Museum. There’s no shortage of adventure and awe-inspiring sights in Sequoia National Park. Its unique combination of immense sequoias, rugged mountains, and verdant meadows make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. By exploring these twenty epic activities, you’ll be sure to leave with a deeper appreciation for this remarkable corner of the world.