December 25, 2024 – Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks officials list ways to make your winter trip to the park a little easier.
Plan ahead for your trip to the parks this holiday season!
- Check the weather forecast to make sure you know what to expect and what layers of clothing to pack. If you are visiting higher elevations in the parks, it can be much colder and there is a higher chance of ice or snow on the roads and trails, which means traction devices may be needed for your tires and feet!
Weather forecasts are listed by areas of the parks at https://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/weather.htm.
- Check the road conditions. When road conditions deteriorate, the parks will activate chain control zones on park roads. Learn more about winter driving and tire chains on our website at https://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/winter_driving.htm.
For 24-hour in-park road conditions, call (559) 565-3341 (then press 1, then 1 again).
- Buy a pass online to move through the entrance line faster. Passes can be purchased at Recreation.gov. If you need help deciding what type of pass you want, visit https://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/fees.htm.
- Parking lots can fill up quickly on holiday weekends. Once you find a parking spot, use trails or hop on the Sequoia Shuttle to move around throughout the park. Walking along the Generals Highway is not safe or recommended.
This year, the Sequoia Shuttle is operating within Sequoia National Park from Friday, December 27 through Wednesday, January 1 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Yes! And… come prepared for winter mountain road conditions!
Learn about driving in winter mountain conditions and chain requirements on our website at https://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/road-conditions.htm.
NPS Photos
An absolutely stunning snowman.
Chains required sign with snowy road conditions and a park ranger law enforcement vehicle.
General Sherman Tree with a light dusting of snow.
Sequoia trees looking magnificent with a light dusting of snow.
Stairs leading down from Moro Rock, with a peak view.
Source & photos: NPS
