Best Things To Do in Sequoia & Kings Canyon

You could fill weeks with all there is to do in Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park, especially given their proximity, but if you’re short on time or would prefer to hit the highlights, here’s the best of both parks for backpacking trails to swimming holes to where to stay and eat, and a lot more.

Overlook view of the deep blue waters of Rae Lakes in Kings Canyon National Park.
Rae Lakes in Kings Canyon National Park. Photo © Tom Grundy/123rf.

In Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, here’s the top pick for…

  • Best Backpacking Trip: Rae Lakes Loop
  • Best Cheap Thrill: Moro Rock in Giant Forest
  • Best Giant Sequoia Grove: Senate and House Groves on the Congress Trail in Giant Forest
  • Best Meal: Lunch or dinner at Wuksachi Lodge
  • Best Riverside Walk: Zumwalt Meadow Loop, near Road’s End
  • Best Swimming Hole: Middle Fork Kaweah River, near Buckeye Flat Campground
  • Best Tent Camping: Stony Creek Campground
  • Best Wheelchair-Accessible Trail: The Big Trees Trail in Giant Forest
  • Best Winter Adventure: Pear Lake Ski Hut
  • Most Secluded Giant Sequoia Grove: The Redwood Mountain Grove
  • Most Luxurious Wilderness Experience: Sequoia High Sierra Camp
  • Most White-Knuckled Drive: Mineral King Road