At Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, which include the Giant Sequoia National Monument, visitor center hours vary by season. Here are the key hours:
– **Giant Forest Museum**: Open daily 9am to 6pm. In winter, it serves as the area visitor center when Lodgepole Visitor Center is closed.
– **Kings Canyon Visitor Center**: Open daily 9am to 5pm in summer, and 9am to 4pm (or 10am to 3pm at times) in winter.
– **Cedar Grove Visitor Center**: Open daily 9am to 5pm from Memorial Day to Labor Day, closed in winter.
– **Foothills Visitor Center**: Open daily 9am to 6pm in summer, and 9am to 4:30pm in winter.
At Giant Sequoia National Monument, the entrance fee is $30 per passenger car or van and $25 per motorcycle, valid for seven days. There are no annual membership options available for this monument.
From Visalia, take Highway 190 east, immersing yourself in ancient forests and breathtaking vistas, a mere 45 minutes away.
At the Giant Sequoia National Monument, particularly the Trail of 100 Giants, there is a paved parking area that accommodates cars, smaller RVs, and motorcycles. Parking is day-use only, with a $12 per vehicle fee. No overnight parking is permitted.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Giant Sequoia National Monument, a vast and majestic expanse of natural beauty, sprawls across 328,000 acres of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Here, elevations range from 2,000 to 10,000 feet, creating a diverse landscape of granite peaks, rushing rivers, and vibrant wildflower meadows. The monument is home to some of the world’s most awe-inspiring giant sequoias, standing sentinel over the rugged terrain.
For the adventurous traveler, hiking and backpacking trails abound, including the renowned Needles Trail and the scenic routes through the General Grant Grove. Horseback riding and mountain biking offer alternative ways to explore the monument’s untouched wilderness. In the summer, the rivers invite kayaking and rafting, while the winter months transform the area into a cross-country skiing and snowshoeing paradise.
The area is rich in history, with the Gamlin Cabin and the Big Stump Grove serving as poignant reminders of the region’s logging past. Wildlife is abundant, with frequent sightings of deer, bears, and a variety of bird species. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, scenic drives and nature photography provide endless opportunities to capture the monument’s breathtaking vistas.
While there is no central visitor center, the district offices of the U.S. Forest Service provide all necessary maps and information. Over 50 campgrounds are scattered throughout the monument, some open year-round, offering a chance to immerse oneself fully in the natural splendor. Local outfitters and guide services can arrange everything from guided hikes to fishing trips, where anglers can catch trout in the monument’s pristine lakes and rivers.
Nearby, the charming artisan towns offer a glimpse into local culture, with boutique shops, artisan cafes, and seasonal festivals that celebrate the region’s unique heritage. As the seasons change, so does the landscape; spring brings a riot of wildflowers, summer hosts ranger-led nature walks, and autumn paints the trees in hues of gold and crimson. This is a destination that beckons to those who crave an authentic, immersive experience in one of nature’s most spectacular settings.
- Area (mi²)
- 513
- Annual visitors
- 1 200 000
- Established year
- 2000
Top 3 Facts about Giant Sequoia National Monument
The Boole Tree, a standout feature, stands 269 feet tall with a circumference of 35 feet, making it the largest tree in any U.S. national forest by volume. This giant was spared by a lumberman about 100 years ago and is now a key attraction along the 2.5-mile Boole Tree Trail.
In this verdant realm, over 1300 native plant species thrive, including the vibrant Kaweah monkeyflower. The landscape, spanning 13,000 feet of elevation, hosts nearly 300 native animal species. Encounter black bears, coyotes, and bighorn sheep, while spotting eleven species of woodpeckers and various turtles. Giant sequoias stand tall, their ecosystems shaped by fire and climate. Mountain yellow-legged frogs inhabit high-elevation lakes, and alpine chipmunks scamper through the alpine tundra. This diverse biodiversity is a testament to the dynamic, ever-changing natural beauty that awaits exploration.
In this verdant expanse, granite peaks soar up to 10,000 feet, overshadowing alpine meadows ablaze with wildflowers. Rushing rivers, like the Kern and Kings, carve through canyons, their crystal waters reflecting the azure sky. Here, the air is crisp and cool, contrasting with the warm hues of ancient rock formations and the majestic silhouettes of 270-foot tall giant sequoias.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Scavenger Hunts
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Volunteer & Stewardship
- Youth Conservation
- Scouting Partnerships.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit during summer for stable weather. Plan a few days to explore trails and sights. Use the Sequoia Shuttle from Visalia or drive with 4WD for Mineral King. Park at designated lots, use free shuttles if full. Rest and hydrate on rocky trails. Pack meals, limited options on site. Enjoy wildflowers in June and July.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for fluctuating temperatures, a waterproof outer layer, and sturdy hiking shoes. Bring a well-fitted backpack, sun protection, and a headlamp for evening hikes. For camping, include a tent, sleeping bag, and portable battery bank. Adjust gear based on trip duration and season.
Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from wildlife, avoid feeding them, and stay on designated trails to protect the ecosystem and your safety. Respect the habitat by not picking plants or disturbing the soil.
Stay Informed
Stay informed about weather, fire restrictions, and trail conditions. Avoid ledges, respect wildlife, and store food securely. For emergencies, call 559-565-3341.
Seasons
Visit in spring for crisp mornings, occasional snow, and blooming wildflowers. May brings mild temperatures (58°F highs, 36°F lows) and the opening of Mineral King Road and Crystal Cave tours, avoiding summer crowds. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a serene, natural beauty.
Summer brings warm days and cool nights, with highs of 76°F and lows of 50°F. Ideal for hiking, but beware of high wildfire risk in July and August. Enjoy the Giant Forest Museum and avoid scorching Foothills temperatures. No rainy days, but crowded trails.
Experience autumn’s splendor among ancient giants, with crisp temperatures (40s-60s°F) and vibrant fall colors. Enjoy fewer crowds and starry skies in November, though some roads may be closed due to snow. No specific fall events, but perfect for hiking and wildlife watching.
From November to March, experience the serene beauty of snow-clad giants, with temperatures often in the 40s. Crisp air, fewer crowds, and winter activities like sledding and snowshoeing make for a unique and invigorating winter escape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Giant Sequoia National Monument has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to the Giant Sequoia National Monument is Three Rivers, located just 6 miles from the Ash Mountain Entrance of Sequoia National Park. Visalia is another nearby city, approximately 35 miles away.
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You can bring your dog to the trails in the national forest lands surrounding the monument, but they must be on a leash no more than 6 feet long. However, dogs are not allowed on trails within the national park itself. They are permitted in areas like campgrounds, parking lots, and picnic areas.
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There is plenty of parking available, and no reservations are needed. However, vehicles over 22 feet long may face restrictions on certain roads. Chains may be required during winter months.
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The top attraction is the Boole Tree, the largest tree on National Forest System land, standing 269 feet tall with a diameter of 35 feet. It was spared by a lumberman about 100 years ago and is now a significant part of the monument’s history. The Boole Tree Trail, a 2.5-mile hike, leads to this gigantic sequoia.