Yosemite, Sequoia & Kings Canyon
Granite walls, giant waterfalls and the largest trees on Earth along the Sierra Nevada.
Best time to visit · California
Best Time to Visit Sequoia National Park
Giant sequoias, granite domes and the largest tree on Earth.
The best time to visit Sequoia National Park is July–September. For great conditions with fewer people, aim for September. It's busiest in July and August.
Month by month
Best monthsJul–Sep
Best valueSep
BusiestJul and Aug
Established1890
Sequoia by season
Winter Fair
The Giant Forest under snow is spectacular. Chains are often required, and some roads close.
Spring Good
Waterfalls and wildflowers bloom in the foothills, but high elevations stay snowy into May.
Summer Prime
The main season. All roads open, Crystal Cave tours run and high trails clear.
Fall Good
Crisp, uncrowded and beautiful, with dogwoods turning red in the Giant Forest.
What to do
- See the General Sherman Tree
- Climb the 350 steps up Moro Rock
- Walk the Congress Trail
- Tour Crystal Cave (seasonal, tickets required)
- Drive through Tunnel Log
Local tip
The road up from the Ash Mountain entrance is steep and winding. Vehicles over 22 feet are advised against it.
Good to know
Sequoia is home to the General Sherman Tree, the largest living tree on Earth by volume.
Before you go: Crystal Cave tours require advance tickets. A summer shuttle serves the Giant Forest. Check current conditions on nps.gov.
Getting there
Closest major airport: Fresno (FAT), about 2 hours.
Nearby national parks
Approximate driving distance. Check a map for exact routes.
Where to stay
Sequoia month-by-month ratings
Road trips with Sequoia
Questions about visiting Sequoia
When is the best time to visit Sequoia National Park?
The best time to visit Sequoia National Park is July–September. For great conditions with fewer people, aim for September. It's busiest in July and August.
What is the worst time to visit Sequoia National Park?
November through March are the weakest time, when conditions are at their worst.
When is Sequoia National Park most crowded?
Crowds peak in July and August. September offers the best balance of good conditions and fewer people.
Is Sequoia National Park worth visiting in winter?
The Giant Forest under snow is spectacular. Chains are often required, and some roads close.
Do you need a reservation for Sequoia National Park?
Crystal Cave tours require advance tickets. A summer shuttle serves the Giant Forest. Always check the official NPS page for the current year's rules.
What is the closest airport to Sequoia National Park?
The most convenient airport is Fresno (FAT), about 2 hours.
How many days do you need at Sequoia National Park?
Most road trips spend 2 to 3 days here.
More in California · National parks in California · Season calendar
Last reviewed October 4, 2026. Ratings are editorial. Rules and road openings change each year, so confirm on the official NPS site before you go.