Sequoia National Park (Sequoia National Park, USA)
Sequoia National Park is located just south of Kings Canyon National Park and both parks are administered by the same body. It is not possible to access the park from any other direction than from the west, via highway 198, which leads through the small town Three Rivers. Both parks can be viewed together, but please be aware that the border between the parks may be closed in winter due to snow. At the Sequoia National Park nearly everything is about trees. These are, of course, not just any trees, but giant redwoods. The park incorporates a big number of groves which can be found scattered along the slopes of the Sierra Nevada that face to the west. These trees are several thousands of years old and can be accessed via easy trails. In the Giant Forrest, right in the heart of the park, visitors can see the largest trees on earth, including General Sherman, who holds the title for being the most massive living thing on earth. The tree is 272 feet high, its bark is up to 3 feet thick and it weighs more than 2000 tons. Moro Rock is a rocky outcrop that is located above the canyon of the Middle Fork Kaweah River. From here visitors can enjoy breathtaking views over the Sierra Nevada. Tunnel log is a tunnel inside of a hollowed giant tree and at Kern Canyon a very deep glaciated valley can be seen. Other highlights are Crystal Cave (a cavern which is 3 miles long, featuring many formations and a number of unique species of animals) and the 14,495 ft high Mount Whitney. The park offers two visitor centres, several picnic areas, restrooms, miles of hiking trails, campgrounds (permit necessary), fishing and wildlife viewing. There are bears in the park, so make sure to follow the instructions of the Park Authority regarding food storage and safety. Please note that Crystal Cave can only be visted by guided tour. The tickets for this tour are only available at the visitor centres inside the park and not at the entrance. The park is open 24-hrs a day all year round if the weather permits. Some roads might not be accessible in winter.
Contact
47050 Generals Highway , 93271, Telephone: +1(559)5653341 | Fax: +1(559)5653730 | Official site