Looking for an exciting day trip from Fresno? Sequoia National Park is a perfect destination to escape the city and immerse yourself in nature. Home to the world’s largest trees, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse wildlife, this park offers a variety of activities for every season.
Getting to Sequoia National Park
Due to its vast size, Sequoia National Park offers two entrances for visitors:
- Big Stump Entrance: Accessible via Highway 180.
- Three Rivers Entrance: Accessible via Sierra Drive.
For a day trip, we recommend using the Three Rivers entrance to minimize driving time. From Fresno’s city center, the journey to the park takes just under an hour and a half. Start by taking the Golden State Highway (Highway 99) south to Visalia, then head east on Highway 198, which turns into Sierra Drive. Follow this route to the park’s entrance, where you'll pay a $35.00 entrance fee per vehicle.
Things to Do in Sequoia National Park
Summer Activities
The park transforms in the summer, offering a completely different set of activities:
Hiking
Summer is perfect for exploring Sequoia’s extensive network of hiking trails. Popular hikes include:
- Moro Rock Trail: A short but steep trail leading to a granite dome with panoramic views.
- Lakes Trail: A longer trail that takes you past multiple alpine lakes, ideal for experienced hikers.
- Crescent Meadow Loop: A scenic, easy loop trail through lush meadows and towering sequoias.
Picnicking
Several picnic areas throughout the park provide a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a meal amidst nature. Popular spots include Beetle Rock, Crescent Meadow, and Lodgepole.
Stargazing
The park’s high elevation and clear skies make it an ideal location for stargazing. In summer, you can witness a spectacular display of stars, planets, and meteor showers. Don’t forget to bring a telescope or binoculars.
Winter Activities
Once inside the park, a variety of winter activities await you:
Snowshoeing or Cross-Country Skiing
Given the park’s high elevation, you’ll likely encounter snow, making it ideal for winter sports. One recommended trail for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing is the Tokopah Falls trail. Although this trail doesn’t feature giant sequoias, it offers breathtaking views of the Watchtower, Tokopah Creek, and the Tokopah waterfall.
Walking Trails
For an easy, family-friendly walk among the sequoias, try the Big Tree Trail or the Congress Trail. These paved paths allow you to see some of the most famous trees, including General Sherman and The President.
Snow Play Areas
Prefer a fun snow day? The park has designated “snow-play” areas where families can build snowmen, have snowball fights, or rent a sled from the park. Look for areas like Wolverton or Grant Grove.
Scenic Drives
Sequoia National Park is perfect for a scenic winter drive. As long as you have tire chains, you can enjoy stunning views of the park’s canyons and snow-covered trees.
Year-round Activities
Horse Riding
Horseback riding is a fantastic way to explore Sequoia National Park. You can bring your own horse or use one of the pack stations available within the park. Grant Grove Stables offers guided rides through scenic trails, providing a unique perspective of the park’s landscapes.
Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity in Sequoia’s rivers and lakes. Anglers can fish for native species like rainbow trout. Remember to obtain a California fishing license and check park regulations before casting your line.
Rock Climbing
Sequoia National Park features excellent rock climbing opportunities with its granite cliffs and domes. Moro Rock and Little Baldy are popular climbing spots. Climbers of all skill levels can find suitable challenges, but safety is paramount, so ensure you have the proper equipment and knowledge. Be sure to check climbing closure updates before planning your trip.
Tunnel Log
Tunnel Log is a unique and iconic feature of Sequoia National Park. This fallen giant sequoia tree has a tunnel cut through it, allowing cars to drive through. It’s a must-see attraction and a great photo opportunity. The Tunnel Log is located along Crescent Meadow Road in the Giant Forest.
Accessibility at Sequoia National Park
Sequoia National Park is committed to making its facilities and experiences accessible to all visitors. Here are some of the accessible features available:
Accessible Parking
All striped and paved parking lots have designated accessible spaces, including van parking with access aisles. Temporary accessible parking placards are available at visitor centers for those without a DMV-issued placard.
Wheelchair Loan
Manual wheelchairs can be borrowed for free at the Giant Forest Museum, Lodgepole Visitor Center, and Kings Canyon Visitor Center. These are available on a first-come, first-served basis and must be returned by closing time.
Sequoia Shuttle
The Sequoia Shuttle offers free, wheelchair-accessible rides to various park attractions during summer and some winter holidays. Reservations are required for the shuttle that runs between Visalia and the Giant Forest.
Trails and Facilities
Accessible trails include the Big Trees Trail and the Grant Tree Trail. Visitor centers, picnic areas, and most restrooms are designed to be wheelchair accessible. Assistive listening devices are available for ranger programs, and accessible restrooms with sinks and flush toilets are located throughout the park.
For more detailed information on accessibility, visit the National Park Service’s accessibility guide.
Wildlife Safety and Viewing Tips
Black Bears
Black bears are common in the park. While they usually avoid humans, it's important to store food properly and keep a safe distance. Bears can become aggressive if they become accustomed to human food. If you encounter a bear, make noise and back away slowly.
Mountain Lions
Mountain lions are rare but present in the park. If you encounter one, do not run. Instead, make yourself look larger, wave your arms, and make noise. If attacked, fight back vigorously.
Other Wildlife
- Mule Deer: Often seen in the park’s meadows and forests. Keep a respectful distance and do not approach fawns.
- Birds: Over 200 species of birds inhabit the park, including the iconic California quail and the rare northern pygmy owl.
- Reptiles: Be cautious of rattlesnakes, especially in lower elevations. Do not approach or attempt to handle any reptiles.
Stay in Fresno, CA
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