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National Parks

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

Park ClosureJun 26, 2026

A Couple Small Roads Closed During Repairs to Past Storm Damage

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InformationJun 8, 2026

Fire Restrictions in Place

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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

Prescribed Burning in Sequoia National Park Foothills Begins May 21
May 14, 2026

Prescribed Burning in Sequoia National Park Foothills Begins May 21

Firefighters plan to conduct prescribed burning in the foothills of Sequoia National Park on May 21 – 22. Visitors who enter the parks through the southern entrance may notice this work taking place between the entrance and Foothills Visitor Center.

Apr 10, 2026

Cedar Grove Prescribed Burning Begins April 16

Fire management staff plan to conduct prescribed burning in the Cedar Grove area of Kings Canyon National Park beginning on April 16. Crews expect to broadcast burn about 92 acres on the valley floor. This work builds on 2025 fuels reduction efforts that treated 261 acres and areas affected by the 2024 Happy Fire. 

Entrance Fees

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