Visit this park to feel insignificant and unimportant in a world of living things that have been on this earth since the time of Christ. Remarkably, some of the sequoia trees in this forest have been living for almost 3500 years. These giants stand in quiet reflection against human civilization, they were born and have stood timelessly in a single place despite the noise and chaos of us. They are stillness and tranquility.

With outstretched arms, those still living offer shelter and shade. They proffer wisdom to those who will listen. Those that have fallen offer warning. They are so massive that a fallen tree will shatter into such small pieces, the only adequate use for them was once match sticks. Their value is not in timber, it’s inherent. How do you place value on a species that withstands time?

It’s impossible to photograph these trees with any accuracy, their might is surreal. This place is about the trees. However, they are sentinels for an expanse of precious habitat. Black bears roam beneath the canopy, and we were lucky to see them wandering at the far edge of the campground.

God could have put us down on a planet bleak and grey, he could have provided only one or two things we could eat for sustenance. He could have blighted our sun and made our earth blank and lifeless. Instead, God gave us the beauty around us because he loves us. Taking care of it is a sign of respect for the gifts he has given. Caring for it is how we serve God, because we want this to be a safe and beautiful home for those who come afterwards.

For children, there is a complete joy in exploring the uniqueness of this place. For adults, there is a depth of wisdom. For all of us, there is a lesson and a space to contemplate how we fit into the puzzle of the Universe in which God created. Just look at the gifts he made for us, that he put on this earth. Some things are for our use, and some are for our wonder.

Extra Tips: Since we visited, there have been four massive wildfires. Extreme drought conditions and high severity fires killed an unprecedented number of these gentle giants.

Fire, normally a sequoia’s friend, helps seeds from their cones release, and clears the area around of brush and detritus allowing the sun to give its strength to budding seedlings. The thick and unique bark usually offers insulation to fire’s heat and protects the vital inside of the tree. But drought conditions and more under-story contributed to higher severity fires, which killed an unprecedented number of trees.

Additionally, abundant snowfall in the winter of 2022-2023 has created flood conditions. Always check the national park website for alerts prior to visiting.

Junior Ranger Badge:

Save the Bears, Life Zones, Sense of Place, and Tree Rings

Remember: To access the Kings Canyon Portion of this National Park, you must drive around the Sequoia National Forest. Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park are adjacent, but there is not a roadway that leads directly from one to the other. There are numerous places to hike in both portions of the park.

Where to Eat: There are restaurants within the park, but we always prefer to bring our own food when camping.

When to Go: We visited both Sequoia and Kings Canyon in October. October is my favorite time to visit our national parks. There are fewer crowds, and the cooler weather makes both mountain and desert camping accessible. Smores taste better when it’s colder outside!

Where to Stay: There are multiple campgrounds within this national park. They are wonderfully set at different elevations so you can time your trip more comfortably if tent camping. In the heat of summer, choose a campground at higher elevation. In the colder months, choose one at a lower elevation. The majority accept advanced reservations. Lodging is also available. See the park website for more information.

Remember: Climbing Moro Rock is something you will want to include on your itinerary. The views are incredible. Also along Moro Rock Road is the sequoia you can drive through. General Grant and General Sherman Trees are both points of interest, but not necessary to enjoy the park. Explore the Sequoia groves anywhere and you will enjoy the experience.  

Posted on: May 31, 2023

Visited: October 2012