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National Parks

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

CautionFeb 16, 2026

Tire Chain Restrictions in Effect - Chains Required to Visit Giant Sequoias

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Park ClosureJan 13, 2026

A Few Small Roads Closed Due to Roadway Damage and/or Repair Work

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Park ClosureJan 13, 2026

Generals Highway Closed For the Season Between Grant Grove and Giant Forest

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A deep canyon with a forested floor and steep granite cliffs

The Glaciers carved the Kings Canyon's steep granite cliffs, leaving a wide U-shaped valley.

Photo: NPS/Rick Cain

About

Huge mountains, rugged foothills, deep canyons, vast caverns, and the world’s largest trees exemplify the diversity of landscapes, life, and beauty here. Explore these pages to plan your visit or to learn about the plants and animals here and the threats they face. Ancient giant sequoias may seem invincible, but they, too are vulnerable.

Activities

Auto and ATVScenic DrivingAstronomyStargazingCampingBackcountry CampingCar or Front Country CampingHorse Camping (see also Horse/Stock Use)Group CampingRV CampingCavingClimbingRock Climbing
Fishing
Freshwater Fishing
Fly Fishing
Food
Dining
Picnicking
Guided Tours
Hands-On
Citizen Science
Hiking
Backcountry Hiking
Front-Country Hiking
Horse Trekking
Horseback Riding
Junior Ranger Program
Skiing
Cross-Country Skiing
Snow Play
Snowshoeing
Wildlife Watching
Birdwatching
Park Film
Museum Exhibits
Shopping
Bookstore and Park Store
Gift Shop and Souvenirs

Directions

Two highways enter the parks. Hwy 180 from Fresno leads east to Kings Canyon National Park, then continues 30 miles east to Cedar Grove. Hwy 198 from Visalia leads east to Sequoia National Park via Three Rivers. Inside the parks, Highway 198 becomes the Generals Highway, which connects 198 to 180. Vehicles over 22-feet long should enter the parks via Highway 180. In winter, the Generals Highway between the parks often closes. Chains may be required on park roads. No roads cross the parks east to west.

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Weather

Because of the extreme elevation range in the parks, weather conditions vary widely between areas. In summer, the sequoia groves have comfortable temperatures and the foothills are hot and dry. Snow lingers on high-mountain passes well into summer. In fall, conditions can range from summer-like to winter-like. Winter brings snow to sequoia groves and rain to the foothills. Be prepared for tire chain requirements. Spring is a great time to hike in the foothills and snow begins to melt at higher elevations.

News

Winter storm expected at Sequoia and Kings Canyon during holiday week
Dec 22, 2025

Winter storm expected at Sequoia and Kings Canyon during holiday week

As many families, friends, and solo adventurists often take time to enjoy their national parks over the holiday break, this year it is particularly important to double check the weather forecast and updated road conditions prior to arriving at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.  

100th Annual Trek to the Nation’s Christmas Tree scheduled for December 14th
Dec 5, 2025

100th Annual Trek to the Nation’s Christmas Tree scheduled for December 14th

The 100th Annual Trek to the Nation’s Christmas Tree event is taking place on December 14th at 2 p.m. at the historic General Grant Tree in Grant Grove, Kings Canyon National Park. The official ceremony will begin at 2:30p.m. This cherished tradition celebrates the Nation’s Christmas Tree, the General Grant Tree, which holds a significant place in our nation’s history. December 14th is a free entrance day at Sequoia and Kings Canyon. 

Thanksgiving weekend in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
Nov 26, 2025

Thanksgiving weekend in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

Thanksgiving weekend is typically busy in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, at a time of year when some services and attractions are closed for the winter. Planning will help to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Entrance Fees

Entrance - Private Vehicle$35.00
Entrance - Per Person$20.00
Entrance - Motorcycle$30.00
Entrance - Non-commercial Groups$20.00