California · U.S. National Parks

3 Days in Sequoia + Kings Canyon

Three Rivers made an easy Sequoia base. Then we committed a full day to going deep into Kings Canyon — the decision that made the trip.

Day 1 — Sequoia: giant trees + Moro Rock

Start with General Sherman + Congress Trail. Congress Trail is 2.7 miles and turns the famous-tree stop into an actual walk through Giant Forest. Then add Moro Rock: more than 350 stairs, steep exposure and a huge Great Western Divide view in a very short hike.

Day 2 — Kings Canyon: drive deep + Mist Falls

This is the day not to compromise. Drive Highway 180 into Cedar Grove, stopping at pullouts, Grizzly Falls and Roaring River Falls. Continue to Road’s End and hike Mist Falls, our favorite hike of the trip. If you still have energy and daylight, make Zumwalt Meadow a quick scenic stop.

Do not underestimate the driving. Our original planning allowed roughly 1 hour 25 minutes just from Three Rivers to Grant Grove — and Cedar Grove is farther. The good news is that the spectacular drive is part of the day.

Day 3 — Big Baldy + whatever you missed

Big Baldy gives you a moderate ridge hike and broad views without another huge day. This is also the buffer day for any Sequoia stops you skipped.

If you only have two days

Day 1: Sequoia. General Sherman + Congress Trail and Moro Rock. Day 2: Kings Canyon. Scenic Byway + Mist Falls. Do not skip Kings Canyon just because Sequoia has the famous name.