Visiting Kings Canyon & Sequoia National Parks in the Winter
About Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks transform into a winter wonderland during the colder winter months, and offer national park visitors unique views. You get to see amazing towering Sequoia trees, some of the largest trees on Earth, blanketed in beautiful pristine snow. The winter conditions offer the amazing views of the two National Parks with fewer crowds. Many of the roads and some of the stunning views are not accessible in winter, but the views you can get to are plentiful and well-worth the journey to the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
What To Know Before You Go
Winter Road Conditions & Closures for Sequoia & Kings Canyon
Winter weather can make road conditions unpredictable in this area of the Sierra Nevada mountains which are at a high elevation and get snow earlier and later into the year. Make sure to check the latest road conditions, closures, and chain requirements before your trip. The parks' websites provide up-to-date information on National Parks road conditions. At times chains are required and checked when there is a lot of snowfall in the area. In order to be prepared carry chains in case they are mandated, even if roads appear clear. There can be no snow at the base of the mountains but a ton of snow in the parks at the top because of the gain in elevation. In the middle of winter the Generals Highway which connects the two National Parks is closed.
*Click here for a map of the parks which indicate what roads are open and closed during different seasons and weather conditions.
Things to Pack for Your Winter Adventures in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
Proper gear is essential for cold weather and snowy conditions. Pack warm layers like thermal underwear and a thermal top, insulated pants and jackets, beanies, gloves, and waterproof boots with good traction. Trekking poles, snowshoes, or yak tracks can be helpful if you plan to hike. There are a lot of short and beautiful hikes that are accessible in the winter which you won’t want to miss! Check the forecast and pack appropriately.
What To Do and See in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks in the Winter
General Sherman’s Tree
The General Sherman Tree is an iconic attraction and must-see for any first-time visitor to Sequoia National Park. Standing 275 feet tall and 36 feet wide, this giant sequoia is the largest tree in the world by volume. The hike to the General Sherman Tree is 0.5 mile out-and-back and it leads right to the base of this massive wonder. In winter, the snow-covered landscape adds an extra magical touch to witnessing this ancient beauty of nature.
Congress Trail
Right next to the General Sherman Tree is the Congress Trail, which is a 3-mile loop. This path winds through some of the Sequoia National Park's most spectacular groves, including the McKinley Tree, House Grove, and Senate Grove. Keep your eyes peeled for the appropriately named "President" tree, which is the third-largest tree in the world. With fewer crowds in winter, you can soak in the tranquil majesty of these towering sequoia giants blanketed in snow.
Big Trees Trail
For an easy yet rewarding winter hike, don't miss the Big Trees Trail. This is a short hike which is great for families with small kids or just if you are looking for something easier. It is a 1.3-mile loop boardwalk starting at the Giant Forest Museum. Along the hike you can find informative signs that explain the fascinating life cycle of the sequoias as you stroll through the area.
Moro Rock Trail
The road to Moro Rock is closed in the winter but you can still hike from the museum up to the rock. The hike is 3.8-miles out-and-back and winds through the forest with glimpses of the formation. There are some amazing views along this trail of the valley and mountains below the Sierra Nevada Mountains. This hike does involve some elevation but isn’t too challenging and is a moderate hike.
General Grant Tree
The General Grant Tree trail is short but spectacular. This tree can be found in Kings Canyon National Park. To see the General Grant Tree it is a 0.3-mile loop which is intermittently plowed in winter, allowing access to this mighty sequoia. This sequoia is the second-largest tree in the world.
Hume Lake
For a leisurely winter walk, head to Hume Lake in Kings Canyon. Hume Lake is at a lower elevation than parts of Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks and can be slightly warmer than other parts of the parks. The 2.8-mile loop trail circumnavigates a picturesque lake, which often freezes over. Stop in the small lakeside village which has a gas station for refueling without having to drive out of the park. This lake is also a very popular place to enjoy numerous activities in the summertime.
