Sequoia National Park by Car
If I say General Sherman, what do you think? Civil War? No! Tree of course! Even though that tree was named after the General Tecumseh Sherman… So now you see where I am going right! I am taking you to the east of California to Sequoia National Park.
What’s to see in Sequoia National Park?
Mount Whitney is the highest point in the California Sierra Nevada. It requires motivation and determination to reach the peak of the highest mountain in the lower 48. The best trail to get to the top is the Mt Whitney Trail. Get there by following the Whitney Portal Road, which brings you directly to the parking at the trail head.
Visit the General Sherman Tree! After all you are visiting the “Land of Giants”, and you can’t avoid stopping and admiring the largest tree of the forest. Be aware though, it is the top-of-list visited place, so you will not be alone there! This tree is in The Giants Forest, the heart of the Park. The Giants Forest offers you many different easy hikes. You can park at the Giant Forest Village and start your hike there! I recommend the Congress Trail as you can easily park and visit General Sherman on your way. If you are looking for a panoramic view, you should take the Great Grove hike. It is less visited and you will enjoy the scenic views.
Where to stay?
If you are planning a series of hikes and enjoy resting in comfort afterwards, you have many lodging options. The Sequoia National Park gives you the list of accommodations – check for package deals! If you are more nature oriented, you will enjoy spending your nights on one of the many campgrounds. You should make a reservation to assure you get a spot, but some of the campgrounds operate on a first come first serve basis and credit cards are not accepted for payment.
What to be Aware of?
Bears !!!! There are storage food lockers for a reason! Use them, or you might have a not so pleasant visitor! Keep your car safe and make sure to not leave any food in it.
Mountains Lions and Cougars. Even though they are very reclusive, you should know that they are there. Don’t hike alone and keep your children close. Better be safe than sorry!
Don’t litter! Have as little impact on the environment as possible! Take your trash with you and stay on the trails when you go for a hike! In short, respect Nature and keep it clean and green!
Enjoy your stay at the Sequoia National Park! And remember, there are so many other amazing National Parks to visit on the West Coast, why not make it a road trip!
Read more about National Parks here…
