Sequoia National Park Scenic Drive & Best Viewpoints in 2024
Have you ever wanted to take in the wonders of Sequoia National Park without trekking into its depths? Look no further than a Sequoia National Park Scenic Drive! This guide provides a comprehensive overview of this stunning drive and highlights some of the best viewpoints.
The Sequoia Scenic Drive is a 47-mile stretch that winds through Sequoia National Park in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains. This route takes you past the largest trees on Earth, including General Sherman Tree, and provides stunning views of deep canyons and sparkling lakes. The drive is typically done as a loop that starts at Ash Mountain Entrance Station and ends at Big Trees Visitor Center, but you can also do it in reverse.
The route is well-marked and easy to navigate, with plenty of places to stop and take photos. Here are some of the best viewpoints you won’t want to miss while on the Sequoia Scenic Drive:
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Best Sequoia Scenic Drive Stops
The best way to experience the grandeur and beauty of Sequoia National Park is by taking a leisurely drive down the scenic route. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking for a relaxing day trip, this drive offers something for everyone. With breathtaking views of granite peaks, ancient sequoia trees, and rushing rivers—not to mention the abundance of wildlife—this is one road trip you’ll never forget.
Tunnel Rock:
This viewpoint is located at the south entrance to Sequoia National Park and offers a breathtaking view of the canyon below. You can find this stop by driving past the entrance station and following the signs for “Tunnel View.” Get your cameras ready—this is one view you won’t want to miss!
From here, you can continue to take in sweeping views of Moro Rock, General Sherman Tree, and the middle fork of the Kaweah River.
Daniel Mayer (mav), CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Middle Fork Trailhead:
The Middle Fork Trailhead is a great spot to take a break from the scenic drive and stretch your legs. Here, you can stroll down the trail for about one mile, taking in breathtaking views of giant sequoia trees. In the spring, wildflowers line the path adding a splash of color to this already beautiful landscape. On clear days, you can also view the distant High Sierra peaks. Even if you don’t plan on hiking further, the Middle Fork Trailhead offers a great place to pause and soak in the peace and beauty of Sequoia National Park.
Hospital Rock Picnic Area:
Hospital Rock Picnic Area is a great spot to stop for lunch or relax along the scenic drive through Sequoia National Park. This area boasts stunning views of the Middle Fork of the Kaweah River and ancient petroglyphs estimated to be over 3,000 years old!
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also take a short hike to nearby Buckeye Flat, where you’ll find more petroglyphs and stunning river views. Whether looking for a quick lunch spot or a peaceful stroll, Hospital Rock Picnic Area is an ideal stop for the scenic drive through Sequoia National Park.
Your drive will continue with zigs and zags along switchbacks on the Generals Highway until your next stop.
Big Fern Spring Overlook
Big Fern Spring Overlook is one of the most breathtaking stops on a scenic drive through Sequoia National Park. Located at an elevation of 6,200 ft., the overlook provides stunning views of lush forests and rocky bluffs that span for miles. This spot is lovely in the springtime when a carpet of wildflowers blankets the hillsides. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the resident Big Horn Sheep that calls this area home.
Eleven Range Overlook
Eleven Range Overlook is up next on our Sequoia Scenic Drive. Located between Hospital Rock and the Gian Forest Museum at an elevation of 7,200 ft., this lookout provides sweeping views of 11 mountain ranges and spectacular vistas.
You’ll find an outdoor exhibit and views overlooking the Kaweah Canyon toward the San Joaquin Valley. The panorama here gives you a unique perspective on the vastness and grandeur of this national park. Visibility can differ depending on the season and local conditions.
Daniel Mayer (mav), CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The Four Guardsmen
The Four Guardsmen is a sight you won’t want to miss while visiting Sequoia National Park. The four majestic giant sequoias on Generals Highway stand side-by-side at the edge of a cliff, providing an incredible view from below. These trees are believed to be among some of the oldest trees in the park. The trees were named in 1919 by surveyor George Welsh.
You can take in more of the area by hiking the short Four Guardsmen Trail. While on the trail, you’ll have many opportunities to spot birds, wildflowers, and other wildlife that make Sequoia National Park their home.
Gerd Eichmann, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Giant Forest
The Giant Forest is one of the most iconic spots in Sequoia National Park. As its name suggests, it is home to some of the largest trees on Earth! The towering sequoias stand as silent sentinels that have inspired generations of visitors. You can take a short 0.8-mile loop hike around the famous Congress Trail and marvel at these majestic giants up close. Be sure also to make time for a visit to the General Sherman Tree, the largest living tree on Earth!
While you are in this area, take some time to stop in the Giant Forest Museum. Here, you can learn about the history of the magnificent Sequoia trees.
Lodgepole Campground
Located a short drive after the entrance to Giant Forest, Lodgepole Campground is a great camping spot and has a small market if you need food or drink. While you are here, we suggest exploring the campground and considering a loop for a future camping adventure. It’s our favorite campground in Sequoia National Park.
Check out this post to find a great campground in Sequoia National Park
You’ll find a hiking trail to Tokopah Falls in the middle of the campground. This is perhaps the most popular hiking trail in this part of the park and culminates at granite cliffs where you can view the Tokopah Falls.
Wuksachi Lodge
If camping isn’t quite your thing, we recommend pulling over at Wuksachi Lodge, just north of Lodgepole Campground. This lodge offers a more traditional overnight stay experience in a beautiful forest setting. The lodge has a restaurant where you can enjoy food and drinks.
Kings Canyon Overlook
As you continue driving to the north section of Sequoia National Park and potentially a bit beyond, you’ll pass trailheads for Little Baldy and Big Baldy.
Our final destination is Kings Canyon Overlook, just outside Sequoia National Park. This is an awe-inspiring view where you can take in the stunning beauty of Kings Canyon from here as high walls of granite encompass the valley and surrounding mountains. On a clear day, you can even glimpse the distant snow-capped peaks.
Martin Stiburek, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Should I Visit Sequoia or King’s Canyon?
Our answer is to visit both! Sequoia and King’s Canyon National Parks are two of the most spectacular places in California. And the Generals Highway will take you directly from Sequoia National Park into Kings Canyon.
The stops recommended will take you to some of the best viewpoints in Sequoia National Park. At the end of the drive, you’ll find yourself looking at a majestic overlook into the splendor of Kings Canyon.
Is King’s Canyon Scenic Byway worth it?
Absolutely! King’s Canyon Scenic Byway is a great road trip that offers incredible views and unforgettable experiences. Along the way, you’ll explore some of the most beautiful landscapes in California and experience the wonders of Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park.
Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, peaceful walks through ancient forests, or if you want to take in some of the most breathtaking scenery, this trip is worth every minute. Plus, you may even get a glimpse of the wildlife that live in these mountains.
Where To Stay Near Sequoia National Park
When visiting Sequoia National Park, you have a few lodging options.
Inside Sequoia National Park
If you want to stay inside the park, we recommend Wuksachi Lodge. The Wuksachi Lodge is located in the heart of Sequoia National Park, roughly 7 miles from the entrance. It’s a picturesque lodge surrounded by incredible views in all directions. The lodge features spacious guest rooms with modern amenities and comfortable furnishings.
The on-site restaurant is a great spot to grab dinner or drinks after hiking in the park. Booking your stay here makes for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Sequoia National Park!
Check rates and availability at Wuksachi Lodge
Outside Sequoia National Park
The Buckeye Tree Lodge in Three Rivers is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere. This rustic mountain lodge is tucked away in a beautiful wooded setting that offers stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountains.
The property offers cabins and a lodge. The cabins can accommodate larger groups, and the hotel-style lodge rooms have views of the river. The property is pet friendly (we recommend you review the website for specific instructions about bringing pets).
Activities at the property range from onsite massages to nearby fishing opportunities. With convenient access to Sequoia National Park, Buckeye Tree Lodge is an excellent spot for those wanting to explore all this region offers!
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Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ
Yes, you can drive through Sequoia National Park! The Generals Highway will take you directly from the Ash Mountain visitor center to Kings Canyon Overlook. This drive is roughly 45 minutes long and offers numerous stops, including Giant Forest, Lodgepole Campground, Wuksachi Lodge, and much more. Be sure to watch for wildflowers, wildlife, and unique views of the Sierra Nevada mountains. This is a great way to experience some of the most beautiful landscapes in California!
The best route through Sequoia National Park is the Generals Highway, a 45-minute drive from the Ash Mountain Visitor Center to Kings Canyon Overlook. Along the way, you’ll experience some of the most breathtaking views in California and even get a glimpse of some of the world’s largest living trees! Stop at popular spots like Giant Forest, Lodgepole Campground, and Wuksachi Lodge to explore the area further. You can also detour down Moro Rock and Tunnel Log if you’re feeling adventurous! The Generals Highway is the perfect route for experiencing all Sequoia National Park offers.
Yes, there are plenty of hiking trails in Sequoia National Park. The park is a hiker’s paradise with over 800 miles of trails for all skill levels. Popular routes include the High Sierra Trail, which takes you from Crescent Meadow to the summit of Mt. Whitney, and the Congress Trail, which winds through Giant Forest and culminates at granite Moro Rock. You can also explore backcountry trails like the Colby Pass Trail, which leads to some of the highest points in the park and offers stunning views.
Regardless of your skill level or experience, you’ll find a hike perfect in Sequoia National Park!
Final Thoughts – Sequoia National Park Scenic Drive
The Sequoia National Park scenic drive is an incredible way to experience the beauty and grandeur of this region. This route has something for everyone, from breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada mountains to majestic overlooks of Kings Canyon. And with convenient access to lodging within and near the park, it’s easy to make a weekend out of your visit.
No matter your plans, this scenic drive will create memories that will last a lifetime. So hop in the car and prepare for a lifetime experience at Sequoia National Park! Happy trails!
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