Visalia, California

Entering Sequoia National Park at the Ash Mountain Entrance near the small city of Three Rivers, follow Highway 198 (Generals Highway) through the park until you see a sign for Buckeye Flat Campground off to the right. The campground sign is immediately after you see signs for Hospital Rock. Foll...

Sunset Campground is minutes away from the King's Canyon National Park entrance. There are a total of 150 sites (2 group campsites) at this campground which can be reserved here. There are several bathroom, water faucets and even an amphitheater. Each campsite comes with a bear locker, picnic tab...

Tunnel log is a massive fallen sequoia across the middle of the road, which is a great photo opportunity for visitors of the national park. The mammoth tree fell over in 1937, but a year later, a car tunnel was carved in the middle of its trunk so vehicles could still pass through. Although the...

A short hike with impressive views of Sequoia National Park, the Little Baldy trail is the less touristy version of Moro Rock.  When we hiked it on a beautiful Sunday morning in the summer, we had the entire summit to ourselves.  Even if other hikers had been up there, it would have still felt em...

Take a drive to Sequoia National Park and take in the beautiful views of the second oldest national park. If you go in the winter or early spring time, be sure to check the weather beforehand and be prepared for the cold.If you are an avid traveler to national parks, I'd recommend that 2 weeks b...

This short and easy trail to the summit of Big Baldy in Kings Canyon National Park is not to be missed if you are in the area.The trail winds through forest and boulders as it climbs the north shoulder of Big Baldy. When you think you have reached the end, and you see people sitting down with the...

The Lakes Trail to Pear Lake can be done as either an overnight stay or a day hike.  For overnight, you'll need to get a permit but there are beautiful camping spots available at both Emerald Lake and Pear Lake.  As a day hike, plan to spend all day since you'll undoubtedly pause at each lake for...

This trip requires a wilderness permit. You can get one at the Lodgepole Visitor Center where you can also rent a bear canister or use the bathroom before heading out.Wolverton Trailhead -> Big Bird Lake (~12 miles)The start of the trail is on the left side of the parking lot and towards the m...

This spot is less than four hours from the Bay Area and offers everything you would ever want to do in the outdoors. The interesting thing about Hume Lake is that it is actually a Middle School and High School camp in the Summer and Winter. That being said, it is not the place to go if you are lo...

Situated just off the stretch of road that connects the two sections of Kings Canyon, Princess Campground is the perfect home base for exploring both Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks. In addition to its central location, it takes reservations, so you can book a roomy spot well in advance o...

Franklin Lakes is part of the Sequoia National Park and can be reached from the trailhead starting near the Mineral King Ranger Station. Bear containers are required and can be rented at the Ranger Station. The hike to Franklin Lakes campground will take 6 hours or less (depending on your speed/h...

The trail to Crystal Lakes begins at the Timber Gap/Sawtooth Trailhead (7,800 feet elevation), which is located at the end of Mineral King Valley Rd.  The trail immediately ascends through a meadow boasting dramatic alpine views and a roaring waterfall. Eventually you'll cross Monarch Creek and b...

Located off the M-90 (closed from Nov.-May) in the Sequoia National Forest, the Trail of 100 Giants provides a perfect stroll for nearby campers or a quick 30-minute stop for families driving by to get a glimpse of some truly awe-inspiring, overhead views.  $5 day parking and restrooms can be fo...

Situated right across the street from the stunning Trail of 100 Giants, Redwood Meadows features 13 spacious campsites adjacent to a picturesque meadow. There are picnic tables, fire rings, and six yurt sites available for those who wish to bring some of the great indoors outside.  Pit toilets ar...

The Zumwalt Meadow and Roaring River Falls Trail is a 4.1 mile hike in Kings Canyon National Park. You feel remote, even with a road nearby. The minimal elevation change makes this a scenic hike for all skill levels. Bring bug spray and wear long sleeve hiking clothing in August, as the bugs are ...