Looking for the best things to do in Sequoia National Park? This natural oasis, nestled in California’s Sierra Nevada mountain range, ranks highly on any list of California’s national parks.
Known for its forest of grand sequoia trees, gorgeous lakes, and seemingly endless hiking trails, the park is a favorite amongst outdoor enthusiasts.
Established in 1890, the national park protects over 400,000 acres of forested mountains and is a neighbor to the well-known Kings Canyon National Park.
But narrowing down what to do at Sequoia National Park can be tricky with all the sights and attractions to discover in this land of giants.
So, if you want the low-down on some of the best spots to add to your Sequoia National Park itinerary, keep reading.
What to Do in Sequoia National Park
With Kings Canyon only a two-hour drive away and with all the places to visit in Sequoia National Park, you’re spoiled for choice when planning a trip.
Remember that Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park require an entrance fee of $20 for a single person and $35 for private vehicles.
Without further ado, here are some worthwhile things to do at Sequoia National Park:
#1 Visit the General Sherman Tree
The General Sherman Tree is the most famous must-see in Sequoia National Park.
This giant sequoia stands 275 feet (84m) tall and is the largest living single-stem tree on Earth.
The General Sherman is said to be between 2300 – 2700 years old and has more volume (wood) in its trunk than any other tree on the planet.
During summer, you can take free shuttle buses to view the tree. There’s an easy-to-navigate, wheelchair-accessible path to the tree located at the parking lot on Generals Highway.
#2 Walk Through the Giant Forest
After all the photo opportunities with General Sherman, you’ll want to walk through the Giant Forest to top off your sequoia tree sightseeing adventure.
The Giant Forest covers an area of 1880 acres and is close to other attractions on this list, like Moro Rock, Crystal Cave, and Crescent Meadow.
Thanks to its singletrack trails and impressive collection of large trees, it’s a great sequoia grove for walking or hiking.
You’ll be able to spot some notable trees like the giant sequoia named President, which has begun to rival the General Grant tree in size, and the Congress group grove.
#3 Explore the Giant Forest Museum
It’s worth swinging by the Giant Forest Museum to learn about the area’s giant sequoias, meadows, and human history for free.
You can learn how to identify trees there — like the difference between California’s coastal redwoods and giant sequoias.
You can easily stroll around Round Meadow and access the Giant Forest from the museum.
#4 Climb Moro Rock
Ever wanted to climb a towering granite dome? Well, Moro Rock is a popular attraction that lets you do just that.
A moderate half-mile hike and a brave 350-granite-step ascension get you to the top of this mighty rock.
Your reward will be sublime 360-degree views of the Great Western Divide and half of Sequoia Park itself.
This free activity takes, on average, up to two hours to complete.
Note: The steps are steep and sometimes narrow, and the site is off General’s Highway.
#5 Drive Through Tunnel Log
Though a simple activity, you should check off driving or walking through Tunnel Log — a sequoia that fell over the Crescent Meadow road in 1937.
Rather than moving the tree, a hole was cut into it so cars could pass through it.
It’s a quick stop where you can learn more about its history and practice your adventure photography skills.
What makes this an impressive sight is that the fallen tree was once 275 feet (84m) high and 21 feet (6m) at the base. Astounding, right?
#6 Walk the Crescent Meadow Loop
Picture a vast spot of greenery and summer wildflowers amongst the orangey sequoias. Crescent Meadow offers a leisurely loop trail of nearly two miles round-trip.
You’ll be surrounded by sights like Tharp’s Log, a hollowed-out sequoia you can walk through.
And the Trail of the Sequoias, a moderate hike through the expanse of sequoia groves surrounding General Sherman.
#7 Tour Crystal Cave
Touring the Crystal Cave can be an excellent change of pace from all the tree sightseeing.
The marble caves are a unique sight with a wide variety of stalactites, stalagmites, and other formations.
As of 2024, the cave will re-open from early May and close in late November. Guided tours are one to two hours long and can be booked on the official Sequoia Parks Conservancy website.
#8 Walk the Congress Trail
Congress Trail is a popular paved hiking path that loops for two miles near General Sherman Tree.
This is an easy trail that takes one to two hours to complete on average. It’s a great walk for first-time visitors looking to explore the heart of the Giant Sequoia Grove.
List of Best Things To Do in Sequoia National Park + Map
- Visit the General Sherman Tree
- Walk Through the Giant Forest
- Explore the Giant Forest Museum
- Climb Moro Rock
- Drive Through Tunnel Log
- Walk the Crescent Meadow Loop
- Tour Crystal Cave
- Walk the Congress Trail
Click here to view a live version of the map!
Keen Targhees
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Where to Stay in Sequoia National Park
There are a few lodging options to choose from when you visit Sequoia National Park. These three options are located in the park, keeping you close to Sequoia’s attractions.
Wuksachi Lodge ($)
A trusted lodging option in Sequoia Park is the Wuksachi Lodge, which has housed many visitors.
Located near top attractions like Big Trees Trail and Crescent Meadow, the lodge’s 102 guest rooms feature modern amenities and private bathing facilities.
Not only that, but you get lovely forest views, and you can enjoy Sierra Alpine cuisine during your stay.
Montecito Sequoia Lodge ($$)
Montecito Sequoia Lodge is also nestled within the park and sits 23 minutes from Giant Forest.
This family-oriented lodge offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner buffets, rustic-style rooms with mountain, forest, or lake views, and a seasonal outdoor pool.
There is also free Wi-Fi and a 24-hour snack bar for those midnight nom-noms.
Silver City Mountain Resort ($)
A newer lodging offering in the park with excellent reviews is the Silver City Mountain Resort, only a 20-minute drive from Mineral King Valley.
Delight in private cottages with fully stocked kitchens, all-American style breakfasts, and pretty views. You can also cycle, play table tennis, fish, and enjoy themed dinner nights there.
Best Things to Do in Sequoia National Park: Wrapped Up
There you have it, a list of Sequoia National Park things to do that will keep you captivated during your trip.
From the flower-filled meadows to the groves of giants and everything in between, there’s no shortage of beautiful activities waiting for you.
If you want to continue your adventures in California’s Sierra Nevada, why not head to Yosemite with this handy Yosemite National Park guide?
Read next: Best stops along Big Sur Highway 1.
