“Big” is the word that comes to mind for Sequoia National Park, which was established 129 years ago on Sept. 25, 1890.
Big trees and big canyons dominate the park, as well as its jointly administered neighbor, Kings Canyon National Park, which was established in 1940.
Together, the two Central California parks are 66 miles long and 36 miles at their widest point.
Get Away From the Hustle and Bustle
For those people who enjoy being alone with their thoughts, Sequoia-Kings Canyon offers ample opportunities for solitude — and spectacular vistas. Ninety-seven percent of the parks is wilderness.
A fun fact from National Geographic: A backpacker can hike to a spot that is farther from a road than any other place in the lower 48 states.
The parks feature five unique areas: Foothills, Mineral King, Giant Forest-Lodgepole, Grant Grove, and Cedar Grove. Each area has its own climate, features, and highlights.
Plan Your Visit
Fall is one of the best times for gazing at the giant sequoias.
You can learn more about the parks and plan a visit with information from the National Park Service website.
Sequoia National Park’s Eagle Scout Peak and Big Arroyo Creek. (Shutterstock)