Hiking Hetch Hetchy Valley is sure to deliver beautiful views during any season. John Muir once called this lesser-known gem in Yosemite the “remarkable exact counterpart” to the famed Yosemite Valley. Unfortunately, this glacier-cut valley is now buried underwater and is a source of ongoing controversy as it was dammed up and turned into a reservoir in the early 1900s. However, not many people venture out here, and not many people have heard of it. Fewer crowds, you say? Sign me up!
The Hetch Hetchy Area has over 287 miles of hiking trails, including part of the famous PCT. You can spend a few hours exploring the dam and shoreline trails or take a long day hike out for more spectacular views of this stunning area. When exploring and hiking Hetch Hetchy with kids, I highly suggest hiking the most popular trail, the stunning 2.5 miles out to Wapama Falls.
If hiking with little kids, you may want a shorter hike, and this trail is an excellent place for exploring the shoreline along the reservoir and controlling your distance based on your kid’s needs. You will still enjoy many of our favorite highlights – the O’Shaughnessy Dam, the Mountain Tunnel, meadows of wildflowers, waterfalls, and the overall spectacular views from the shoreline trail.
WHERE IS HETCH HETCHY?
The Hetch Hetchy Valley is a hidden gem in the northwest corner of Yosemite National Park. Visitors can access this lesser-known (and less crowded) part of Yosemite just outside the park off Highway 120. Hetch Hetchy Road is located just before you enter Yosemite National Park through the northern Big Oak Flat entrance.
The Hetch Hetchy area makes for a great day trip, but it is a bit of a journey from the heart of Yosemite, so plan accordingly (about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Yosemite Valley). If you are visiting Yosemite from the Bay Area, this is an excellent stop on your way in or out of the valley. If you are looking for accommodations nearby, The Evergreen Lodge seems incredible. I will update this post with a review once we can stay there!
GETTING TO HETCH HETCHY
Hetch Hetchy Road is open during seasonal hours (check current hours here) and is the only way to get to the Hetch Hetchy trailheads. From Highway 120, take Hetch Hetchy Road and travel 16 miles, about 25 minutes, towards the Evergreen Lodge. Pass through the lodge property, and continue past Camp Mather to reach the Hetch Hetchy entrance station. The trailheads and dam are about 30 minutes down the road. Plan to spend a few hours enjoying the area.
ENTRY FEE
If you are visiting Yosemite National Park, you will have already paid your $35 fee for seven days, and you can use that to enter through the Hetch Hetchy Entrance Station. However, when we visited at the beginning of April, the entrance station was not collecting fees from October – to April.
SERVICES
No services are available once inside, so fill your gas tank before heading in. The last stop in the park is at the Crane Flat Chevron, just before the Big Oak Flat Entrance Station. The last stop on Highway 120 is in Buck Meadows.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE HIKING HETCH HETCHY
The hike toward Wapama Falls has little shade, so sunscreen is necessary. Spring and fall’s cooler temperatures will improve your hiking experience. However, the falls dry up slightly by late summer, and the hotter temperatures may make the hike more challenging for kids. As always, make sure to plan for your hike. If you want to get your kids more involved in their national park experience, check out this post for the items we always pack when exploring the parks with our kids!
Ensure to carry plenty of water, as there are no services or areas to purchase food or water inside Hetch Hetchy. Watch for poison oak, especially when hiking with kids. There is no cell service in the area.
SEASONS
The lower elevation, 3,900 feet, makes the Hetch Hetchy Area popular for hiking throughout the year. In winter, snowshoers love to explore the area.
We visited in Spring, and seeing the waterfalls flowing as wildflowers surrounded the trail in vibrant colors was stunning. Lupine, Monkey Flowers, and Buttercups bloomed during our hike, especially in the meadows closer to Tueeulala Falls. If you follow my blog, you know I love any hike covered in wildflowers. So this was a great time to visit.
THE RESERVOIR
The Hetch Hetchy Reservoir is over 8 miles long and holds 117 billion gallons of drinking water that supplies around 2.4 people in the Bay Area. The reservoir is only for drinking water, so swimming and boating are prohibited. However, fishing is permitted year-round with a valid California fishing license.
WILDLIFE
Since the Hetch Hetchy Area is backcountry wilderness, black bears are common. Therefore, being bear prepared is necessary. Do not leave food in your vehicle. If overnight backpacking, bear canisters are required for food storage. A wilderness permit is needed and can be obtained for free from the park rangers at the entrance station. The Hetch Hetchy Area is also home to many bat species and snakes.
DOGS
Dogs are not allowed on the trails or the O’Shaughnessy Dam but are permitted in the day-use area on a leash. Domesticated animals threaten wild animals, so this is a great time to leave your pup at home.
HIKING TO WAPAMA FALLS
The hike to Tueeulala Falls and Wapama Falls is stunning and gives you great views of the area. You will begin the hike by crossing the dam and heading through the mountain tunnel to access the trail along the reservoir’s shoreline. Once you begin the shoreline trail, you can decide how far to go based on your family’s needs.
The hike to Tueeulala Falls is 1.5 miles out, and 2.5 miles to Wapama Falls. The hike is moderate, as many areas are up and downhill on the trail. However, some trail areas are very rocky, so I highly recommend having hiking boots for this trail, especially when carrying a child. For a longer day hike, you can continue 13 miles to Rancheria Falls. This is also an excellent destination for a backpacking trip.
THE O’SHAUGHNESSY DAM
Once you enter the Hetch Hetchy Entrance Station, continue on the road for about 30 minutes until you reach the dam. Park in the day-use parking and take a moment in awe of the size of the structure. Standing on the 430-foot dam gives you incredible views of beautiful granite monoliths to the north. Looking south, you can stare at the powerful water pumped out into the Tuolumne River below.
Along the dam’s walls, there are several interpretive panels about the area’s history. From Native American inhabitants to the controversy surrounding Hetch Hetchy, I was in awe of this beautiful place I did not know existed until recently.
THE MOUNTAIN TUNNEL
To access the Wapama Fall trailhead, cross the O’Shaughnessy Dam and pass through the mountain tunnel. The cave-like atmosphere is a great way to begin your hike. My kids loved yelling to hear their echo and the unique experience of walking through. We walked along the edges due to large puddles through the middle of the tunnel. My son loved pretending he saw bats, but in the darker center of the 1/4-mile tunnel, he did start to feel a little nervous.
MEADOWS & WILDFLOWERS
Walking along the shoreline, you will notice beautiful manzanita trees along the trail. We passed by two smaller waterfalls dripping down the mountain, several green meadows along the rocks, and many wildflowers. The wildflowers brought the butterflies, and they were everywhere. This was a highlight for the kids, and we enjoyed taking rests along rocks in the meadows.
TUEEULALA FALLS
As we walked along the shoreline, the kids loved looking backward at the dam and our car in the parking lot. As we got closer to Tueeulala Falls, we could see several streams plummeting over the mountain. These waterfalls created a variety of pools flowing into the reservoir. These falls descend over 1,000 feet into the reservoir below. Before making the reservoir, they would flow freely into the Tuolumne River at the bottom of the Hetch Hetchy Valley.
This area made for a great lunch stop. We enjoyed a picnic on the rocks while taking in the views. Although I could hear the rush of Wapama Falls around the corner, my kids were getting tired, and I still had a drive back to the Bay Area ahead of me. This is an excellent example of the need to pivot. I wanted to keep going, but it was 80 degrees, my kids were tired, I had no help with the kids if we pushed too far, I did not have the Osprey for my daughter, and I still had a 4-hour drive home. So we headed back towards the car, knowing we would be back to see Wapama Falls sooner than later!
WAPAMA FALLS
After another mile of jaw-dropping views, you will reach the stunning Wapama Falls. Enjoy the four bridges that cross over the different offshoots of the waterfall. This is the true prize of your efforts! Take time to soak it in!
HISTORY OF THE HETCH HETCHY VALLEY
John Muir led the crusade with the Sierra Club to protect this beautiful valley. They were adamantly against the building of the O’Shaughnessy Dam. The dam’s construction was one of the first times people questioned using natural resources for modern development. Until the Hetch Hetchy debate, many Americans were focused on the desire to expand and use natural resources to support our cities and development.
In 1913, Congress passed the Raker Act, which allowed the construction of the O’Shaughnessy Dam, which was completed in 1923. The beauty of the valley has been buried underwater since. Three years later, the National Park Act was passed in Congress, protecting our parks and ensuring nothing like the flooding of Hetch Hetchy would happen again. Restore Hetch Hetchy is an organization working to reverse this controversial decision and resurrect this incredible valley and place in our national park system.
“Dam Hetch-Hetchy! As well dam for water-tanks the people’s cathedrals and churches, for no holier temple has ever been consecrated by the heart of man.” – John Muir
Have you been hiking in Hetch Hetchy? Did you make it to the falls?
YOSEMITE TRIP PLANNING RESOURCES
Planning a trip to Yosemite? Check out my other Yosemite resources here!
There are so many things to see and do in Yosemite, and exploring on a bicycle is a great way to maximize time and avoid frustrations with parking and crowds. One of our best days in Yosemite was biking the valley floor with our kids. Do not miss this memorable experience.
In this post, I cover all you need to know to plan your biking adventure in Yosemite!
If you have your own bikes that you are planning to bring to Yosemite, jump down below to our epic day to help you plan yours! We always bring our son’s bike when traveling to Yosemite, but we have never all ridden around the valley together. This year, we decided to spend our 12th wedding anniversary doing just that. We had an incredible day, and I highly recommend you take a day to do the same!
BIKING IN YOSEMITE PLANNING TOOLS
WHERE CAN I BIKE IN YOSEMITE VALLEY?
Although bicycles are not allowed on trails, Yosemite Valley has over 12 miles of bike paths connecting the valley’s most popular attractions. The valley floor is very flat, which makes biking with kids an easy and fun adventure. Whether you bring or pack your bikes, you will surely enjoy the flexibility biking offers you and your family. Save this map of the Yosemite Valley Biking Trails on your phone so you always know where you are! Check out our sample itinerary below to start planning your day
WHERE CAN I RENT A BIKE IN YOSEMITE VALLEY?
Yosemite Valley has multiple bike rental options, making a family bike adventure very easy to plan. Due to snow in the valley, the rental season runs from the start of April to late October/Early November. Unfortunately, outside of ADA bike rentals, you cannot make reservations in advance. You can rent bikes from three locations in Yosemite Valley.
During our August 2021 visit, the Yosemite Lodge bike stand was open from 8-6 pm. The bike stand is located right next to the pool behind the front desk. I called in advance and was told to be there by 9 to ensure getting bikes for the day. In addition, early arrival gives you plenty of bikes to pick from, as all bikes are beach cruisers, and the seats cannot be adjusted. This is especially important when renting for kids, as the right seat height and helmet size will set you up for a successful day. You can check current hours here, but I recommend calling in advance just to check in about your family’s specific needs.
During our August 2021 visit, the Curry Village (previously known as Half Dome Village) bike stand was also open from 8-6 pm. The bike kiosk is located next to the front office. Once you pay for your rental, you will head to the bike yard to pick out your bikes. We stopped by here to swap helmet sizes for our daughter around lunchtime, and a ton of bikes were still available. Again, you can check current hours here, but I recommend calling in advance to check in about your family’s specific needs.
The Yosemite Village Bike Rental Stand is located next to the village store. The Village Store or neighboring Degnan’s Kitchen are great options for picking up a picnic for your bike ride. You can check current operations here.
BIKING IN YOSEMITE RENTAL OPTIONS
Several family-friendly options are available to rent at the three Yosemite Valley locations. There are no rentals for babies under the age of one. All bike rentals include helmets as well.
Kids bikes – $40/day or $30/5 hours (half day)
Adult bikes – $40/day or $30/5 hours (half day)
Adult bikes with trailers – $75/day or $55/5 hours (half day)
Riders in the trailer need to be age one or older for safety reasons. The bike stands also have ADA and electric scooters requiring advanced reservations. You also can rent wheelchairs and strollers during your Yosemite Valley visit at each bike stand.
OUR EPIC DAY BIKING IN YOSEMITE
START AT THE YOSEMITE VALLEY LODGE
Staying at the Yosemite Valley Lodge, we rented and started our ride from there. My husband walked over shortly after 8 am and rented the bikes while we finished getting ready for our day. We left the Yosemite Valley Lodge and headed West on the bike path directly behind our building (we were in Laurel). This is also the start of our favorite evening routine, which you can read more about in this post.
YOSEMITE VALLEY LODGE TO CURRY VILLAGE
We crossed Swinging Bridge and the Merced River and headed North along Cook’s Meadow all the way to Curry Village. This was a beautiful stretch and allowed us to get comfortable riding for a bit.
CURRY VILLAGE TO HAPPY ISLES NATURE CENTER
From Curry Village, we headed South to the Happy Isles Nature Center. This is a great place to explore with kids and stop for a snack. The area has plenty of bike racks and benches to rest on. There is so much to see as you wander through the area.
Take time to explore the different rivers, rocks, forests, and fen areas before heading inside for a family art class or Junior Ranger program. Interpretive panels guide you through the outdoor areas. Don’t forget some cute family pictures in this beautiful area. This area is also where the Mist Trail to Vernal Falls begins. Something for another day and definitely on my bucket list!
HAPPY ISLES NATURE CENTER TO MIRROR LAKE
From Happy Isles, we headed out to Mirror Lake. About 1/4 mile from the lake, rental bikes need to park for the last uphill push to the lake. Mirror Lake is a great place no matter the season. The colors are vibrant, and the scenery is spectacular whether the lake is full, frozen, or dried up. We love having a picnic lunch here, but we opted for a snack on this biking adventure as it was still a little early.
Plan to take your time visiting Mirror Lake. We wandered outside the lake, had a snack, took pictures of the kids, and helped our son with a few pages of his Junior Ranger book. This was a great rest after riding the distance we had covered.
MIRROR LAKE TO THE CURRY VILLAGE PIZZA DECK
From Mirror Lake, we headed back to Curry Village for lunch at the Pizza Deck. This order-at-the-counter outdoor craft beer and pizza kitchen was the perfect stop for lunch. Check out the menu here. There was plenty of shady seating, and the pizza was delicious! I will mention that the squirrels are pretty aggressive at the Curry Village Pizza Deck. My husband was grabbing our order and saw one run on someone’s table and grab a ranch packet! So *pro tip* sit by someone with a dog as we did! Ha!
Curry Village is a great place to explore with kids. They have a large wrap-around porch with rockers around the game room, and relaxing there with ice cream would have been ideal, however, the ice cream shop was closed due to COVID. So keep that in mind as an option when you go! We could also check in the Curry Village bike stand to swap our daughter’s helmet for a smaller size. So this is a great place to stop and check in if you are having any bike or helmet issues!
CURRY VILLAGE TO THE AHWAHNEE HOTEL
From the Pizza Deck, we headed into Yosemite Village and out to the Ahwahnee Hotel. This was a beautiful stretch of the ride as you take Northside Drive along the Ahwahnee Meadow into Yosemite Village and up Ahwahnee Drive on the other side of the meadow.
Ahwahnee Drive gave us perfect afternoon shade, and we were thrilled to arrive right at the Ahwahnee Bar was opening for the day! The Ahwahnee is a beautiful hotel worth checking out and makes for a great stop for all. Our son loves the lobby’s “Sweet Shop” and we love the craft cocktails from the lounge. If you are still hungry, treat yourself to an appetizer from the Ahwahnee Bar. The Bavarian Pretzel was gigantic and was served hanging from a giant hook in the center of the platter. Another great stop for all.
THE AHWAHNEE HOTEL TO YOSEMITE VALLEY LODGE
From the Ahwahnee, we headed back to Yosemite Lodge. We passed the Yosemite Falls trail because we planned to return later in the evening. Bikes are not allowed on the short trail, but there is plenty of bike parking, and this would be a great time to walk out to enjoy the falls if you are not staying the night.
From here, we took some time to regroup in our room. If you follow my blog, you know my son has Cystic Fibrosis and needs breathing and vest treatments twice daily. We took an hour or so to handle treatments and change into swimsuits for our favorite evening routine – a dip in the Merced River, a bike loop around Cook’s Meadow, and a walk out to Yosemite Falls.
YOSEMITE VALLEY LODGE TO SWINGING BRIDGE AND THE MERCED RIVER
As the sun began to set behind the towering granite walls surrounding the valley, we headed back out on the same path we started from. Keep a lookout along your ride, as we have seen a bear and countless deer on this exact route in the early evening. We parked the bikes for a short dip in the Merced River and then finished our day with another loop of Cook’s Meadow before returning our bikes. We arrived at Yosemite Lodge Bike Stand right before 6.
YOSEMITE VALLEY LODGE TO LOWER YOSEMITE FALLS
If you are staying at the Lodge, this is a great time to head over to Yosemite Falls, as chances are you will have it almost to yourself! We enjoyed our short walk (.5 miles round trip) out to Lower Yosemite Valley Falls before picking up dinner at the Base Camp Eatery in Yosemite Valley Lodge.
It was the perfect recipe for an unforgettable day. Definitely work biking in Yosemite into your Yosemite plans!
Are you looking for a quick way to submerge yourself in nature from the East Bay? Living in Southern California, we were craving some of the lush greenery Northern California hiking offers after the holidays. The Huckleberry Botanic Regional Preserve Interpretive Loop Trail was a great way to escape the post-holiday business and enjoy a short afternoon hike. The loop takes you down into a beautiful forest and luscious change in scenery filled with bright green ferns and aromatic bay trees.
The Huckleberry Botanic Regional Preserve is tucked away in the Oakland hills, sandwiched between the East Bay and San Francisco. The preserve is run by the East Bay Regional Park District and is well maintained. At the start of the trail, you can pick up a park brochure that includes a trail map and information about the 21 interpretive panels along the 1.7-mile loop.
PARKING AT THE HUCKLEBERRY BOTANIC REGIONAL PRESERVE
Parking was easy, as there is a small lot at the park entrance on the left side of Skyline Blvd., just after the Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve. The parking area has several picnic tables to enjoy, as well as bathrooms and trash/recycling cans. Unfortunately, there are no dogs or bikes allowed on the Huckleberry Loop.
The Huckleberry Botanic Regional Preserve Interpretive Trail loop is 1.7 miles and took us less than 1.5 hours. The loop takes you down into a beautiful green fern and bay forest and teaches you about the local flora and fauna along the way. The unique climate of this area has created a moist environment that is home to many native plants that cannot be found anywhere else in the Bay Area. We loved the change of scenery and damp feel under the canopy of greens.
STARTING YOUR HIKE
At the start of the loop, you can either take the Lower Huckleberry Loop Trail to the left or the Upper Huckleberry Loop Trail to the right. The left takes you down a set of stairs into the fern and bay forest. We opted for this direction, knowing we would be climbing back up as we looped around. Many hikers opt to take the flatter Upper Huckleberry Loop Trail out a bit and back for a less strenuous hike. This is an excellent option for families with young kids concerned about distance. However, the Lower Huckleberry Loop Trail was the highlight of our hike. I highly recommend starting to the right, down the Lower Loop Trail.
LOWER HUCKLEBERRY LOOP TRAIL
We visited after light rains, so the trail was slightly muddy. The sun was peeking through the clouds, but the canopy of trees made for a primarily shady and damp hike. The trail can be slippery and steep at times. I can see this trail being very muddy after heavier rains, so plan your footwear appropriately. The smell of bay leaves filled the air throughout the hike, making for a peaceful feeling winding through the fern and bay forest on the lower half of the loop.
The greenery was plentiful, and the tree canopy made you feel like you were hours away from the busy Skyline Blvd and cities just outside of the preserve. The Lower Huckleberry Loop covers interpretive panels 21 to 16 as you move down the interpretive panel list when starting from the lower trail. Shortly into your hike, you reach another fork in the trail. Continue on the trail to the right, the Lower Huckleberry Loop Trail. The path to the left will take you to the 31-mile Skyline National Trail into Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve (North) or Reinhart Redwood Regional Park (South).
UPPER HUCKLEBERRY LOOP TRAIL
After interpretive panel 16, you will see a sign heading up towards the Upper Huckleberry Loop Trail. As you begin to climb up, turn around for beautiful views of Mt. Diablo through the trees.
The climb up the “connector” portion of the Lower Trail to the Upper Trail is steep but short at .11 miles. There are several sections of stairs to help on muddy days.
We looked down at the climb we had just made up to the Upper Huckleberry Loop Trail.
After the climb, you will reach another sign and head right to continue on the Upper Huckleberry Loop Trail back towards the trailhead. Heading left will take you on the Upper Pinehurst Trail into Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park.
DETOURS
Shortly after connecting to the Upper Loop Trail, we took a slight detour to the right towards interpretive panels 14 & 15. After an uphill stretch through some bushes, we came out into a clearing with beautiful views of Mt. Diablo. There was also a bench where we enjoyed a snack and the sunshine. This would be an excellent place for a picnic or extended rest when hiking with our kids.
After our detour, we continued along on the Upper Huckleberry Loop. We immediately noticed it was a much flatter path along the ridge. We took another detour to see interpretive panels 9, 10 & 11. The clearing was much smaller than the previous clearing we discovered, so we quickly headed back to the main trail. As we continued along the main trail, we enjoyed seeing the red bark of the manzanitas as well as the sprawling bushes of the coast huckleberry.
MANZANITA TREES
At one point, a live manzanita tree has grown over the trail and gives you an up-close view of the beautiful bark. It is against the law to carve into the branches of these beautiful trees, as they are protected in this preserve. Although manzanitas are abundant on the upper loop in this preserve, they are eventually overtaken by the huckleberry or chinquapin native to the area.
As you approach the trailhead, you find yourself winding through similar greenery as the start of your hike. Finally, there are two benches where you can rest and take in the final views and smells of bay leaves surrounding you!
This trail was a beautiful getaway from the East Bay. We visited in December 2020, when COVID numbers were surging, and everyone on the trail was wearing a mask. The trial is thinner, but we could step aside when parties need to pass. I would love to explore the Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve next door with more time. Some trails connect the two preserves.
LAST STOP – GRIZZLY PEAK
Don’t forget to stop at Grizzly Peak for incredible views (on a clear day) of the Bay Bridge, San Francisco skyline, and Golden Gate Bridge. Grizzly Peak is right on your way to Huckleberry Botanic Regional Preserve from the East Bay. As you head up towards the Preserve from the East Bay, you exit Fish Ranch Road right before the Caldecott Tunnel and then take a left onto Grizzly Peak Blvd. for a little over 2 miles before hitting Skyline Blvd. Although giant logs have blocked the main turnouts, the view is still exceptional from different points on the road.
Views of the city from Grizzly Peak
We pulled on the side of the road as we left the preserve and crossed Grizzly Peak Blvd. to take in the view. This pullout was a great spot to take in city views at night in high school. However, I did read police are patrolling and citing between 9 pm-6 am. Apparently, the views were not only attracting people but also smoking, bonfires and fireworks. These do not pair with high fire danger, so “hanging out” is no longer allowed. But do stop to enjoy the view!
Do you love getting into nature from the East Bay? Check out my post on Muir Woods. What are some of your favorite hikes in the Bay Area? We are always looking for new things to explore!
Muir Woods National Monument is located in Marin County in Mill Valley, California. With over 6 miles of maintained trails, a day hiking in Muir Woods is a great way to escape the busy city life and find peace in nature. Some of the best hiking trails in Muir Woods are accessible and kid-friendly, making for a great family day. Reservations are required for parking, so you will have to plan a bit. But setting aside some time to explore the beauty of these redwoods on a Muir Woods trail is highly recommended.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO TO MUIR WOODS NATIONAL MONUMENT
MUIR WOODS HOURS OF OPERATION
Depending on the season, the park opens at 8 am and closes at 5 or 6 pm. The café and gift shop are open 9 am-4 pm. The visitor center opens at 8 am and closes about 30 minutes before the park. You can check current hours and closures here.
RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED TO PARK
Advanced reservations are required to park at Muir Woods National Monument. Check this link for the reservation page. For $9.00/vehicle, you choose a 30-minute arrival window for parking, and you are welcome to stay as long as you would like. You can also opt to pay your $15/person entrance fees during this reservation process. Muir Woods is part of the National Park system, so do not pay the fee in advance if you use one of the National Park Annual Passes to enter Muir Woods.
THERE IS NO CELL SERVICE
There is no cell service approaching the Muir Woods National Monument entrance. This is important to consider when planning a day in Muir Woods. Your parking reservation needs to be downloaded or printed in advance to show the attendant. You will not be able to pull up your email to show the attendant. Also, if you are taking rideshare to get there, such as Uber or Lyft, you will need a plan for leaving. You will not be able to request your ride home with no cell service.
MUIR WOODS SHUTTLE
A shuttle runs from Mill Valley and Sausalito to board and take to the park. Unfortunately, we did not use the shuttles, but you can find current information about the shuttles here.
PLAN FOR WEATHER
Muir Woods is located in Marin County, known for having cooler, foggy/cloudy days. Due to the canopy of the redwood forest, the sun can barely peek through the trees, making shade abundant. This naturally brings the temperature down, so I highly recommend layers for everyone in the family during a Muir Woods hike. When temperatures are high, the forest remains cooler with the shade. After heavy rains, the forest can be incredibly muddy, so plan accordingly with little kids!
DINING OPTIONS
There is no eating allowed in the forest area of Muir Woods National Monument. We had packed a delicious picnic packed and realized quickly we would not be enjoying it during our hike. There are many benches outside the entrance for picnicking, which we did. We had picked up the delicious Sweet Affair bakery in Walnut Creek and I wasn’t about to pass up my favorite sandwich (turkey on butter crust) and cookie (peanut butter chocolate chip) combo!
If you plan a longer hike that heads into Mount Tamalpais State Park, you will be able to picnic in the state park. In addition, there are no garbage cans anywhere along the trail. Therefore, if you snack or have a beverage, make sure to pack out ALL of what you bring in.
MUIR WOODS TRADING COMPANY CAFE
Muir Woods has a small cafe and gift shop right at the entrance. The Muir Woods Trading Company Cafe serves a variety of lunchtime-style sandwiches and salads. Check out the menu here. You can also pick up a coffee or pastry if visiting early or in chilly weather.
HIKING TRAIL ETIQUETTE
When you visit Muir Woods, it is important to respect the beauty of the forest. Redwood trees are some of the tallest trees in the world and have very fragile and shallow roots. Therefore, it is essential to stay on the hiking trails in Muir Woods to protect this beautiful place. The trails are well maintained and marked, so you will not be confused. It pains me to see people blatantly ignoring signs and hopping over fences to get their perfect Instagram picture. The fragile state of the forest is also why there are no bikes or pets allowed in Muir Woods. In addition, be aware of poison oak warnings all over the forest, especially with littles. Please make sure to respect the forest so it will be here for future generations.
THE JUNIOR RANGERPROGRAM
As you know from my blog, I love the Junior Ranger programs at National Parks. This program was great because it was much shorter than the large National Parks, and my son could complete the activities during our visit. In addition, I love the info in the books and how we all learn about the park more as he works through his activities. You can download the activities ahead of time or pick up a book in the visitor center or when you pay your entrance fee ($15/adult when we were there in 2020 and 2022).
THE REDWOOD CREEK TRAIL – THE MAIN MUIR WOODS HIKE
The Redwood Creek Trail is the main trail through the redwood forest. This is where you will start a day in Muir Woods, and you can add to the adventure from this trail. The trail is a wooden boardwalk that is well maintained and wheelchair accessible. The trail follows the creek and has four bridges that cross over each side. Since we visited during COVID, the trails were designated one-way, so we could not travel back and forth, although that option would have allowed more back-and-forth to see everything. The bridges offer you three different options for looping through the forest. Bridge one is right by the cafe at the entrance. Once you start up the creek into Muir Woods, you have several options for expanding your hike.
LOOP TO BRIDGE TWO
The first option for your Muir Woods hike is to only walk up to bridge two, a 1/2 mile, 30-minute loop through the start of the forest. This loop gives you an exquisite taste of the forest and is an excellent option for those not looking to walk too much. There is very little elevation gain on this trail. This loop starts at the Muir Woods visitor center and takes you through Founder’s Grove and the Pinchot Tree.
This tree is one of the largest in the grove and is dedicated to Gifford Pinchot in 1910, the first chief of the U.S. Forest Service. Pinchot lobbied President Roosevelt to save these redwoods. This first loop offers beautiful views of the creek and towering coastal redwoods above. The beginning of the Canopy View Trail is to the right of this loop.
LOOP TO BRIDGE THREE
The loop to bridge 3 is pretty short and will turn your walk into a 1 mile, 1-hour tour of the grove. You can enjoy the giant redwoods of the Bohemian Grove trail on this portion of the walk. As you approach bridge 3, you can either cross the bridge to loop back towards the Visitor’s Center or continue for more adventure.
LOOP TO BRIDGE FOUR
If you continue to bridge four, you will create a two-mile loop through the redwood forest that is well worth it. This portion of the main Redwood Creek Trail takes you through Cathedral Grove, a beautiful, quiet part of the trail. As I mentioned earlier, the wooden boardwalk and trails are very well-maintained. They are even adding a portion of the trail in this area.
CATHEDRAL GROVE
I read somewhere that you should enter this area with purpose and reflect on your intention as you walk through. Signs ask for quiet in the grove, and it is beautiful. We entered the grove focused on gratitude as we were with my parents whom we rarely get to adventure with. Practicing gratitude for a moment, no matter your circumstances outside of your visit is empowering in nature. So take a moment of pause to reflect in the grove during your day in Muir Woods.
A quote from John Muir was ringing in my head as we walked through this particular area in the grove. Due to the beauty and quiet, my son enjoyed working on a few pieces of his Junior Ranger book on this portion of our hike. We all enjoyed taking in the sounds of the forest.
Several longer trails leave from this loop – the Fern Creek Trail, Camp Eastwood Trail, and Bootjack Trail. Hikers can combine the Fern Creek and Eastwood trails into a less than 4-mile loop through the forest, wildflowers, and Mount Tamalpais State Park. Fern Creek Trail can be combined with the Mt. Tam Lost Creek Trail and back to the Canopy View Trail in Founder’s Grove for a two-hour, quieter trek through the forest. The Bootjack Trail will take you on a beautiful 7-mile loop into Mount Tam State Park as well.
In every walk with nature, one receives far more than one seeks.
– John Muir
HIKING THEHILLSIDE TRAIL
Once you reach bridge 4, you can U-turn and head back through Cathedral Grove to bridge three or cross over to begin the Hillside Trail to loop around. This route gives you a 2-mile, 1 1/2 hour trek through the forest. I highly recommend going this way as it gives you a different perspective on the beauty you have seen. In addition, it gives you a new view of the forest since you were walking on the forest floor before this trail. Suddenly you are on a hillside, looking down at the paths where you were before. It is essential to be careful with young kids on this trail, as some drops are steep, and there are no guard rails. This trail begins with a large hill up from the bridge but then levels out. It is a great option that will take you back to bridge two.
You will be back on Redwood Creek Trail when you come off the Hillside Trail at bridge 2. The walk back to the entrance and Visitor Center is very short and shaded. I highly recommend adding the Hillside Trail to your Redwood Creek loop. Please note the Hillside Trail is not stroller friendly.
DON’T MISS THESE GEMS NEAR MUIR WOODS
After hiking through Muir Woods, chances are you will be seeking more adventure or a relaxing meal. Here are some of our favorite places to stop by after our Muir Woods adventure.
THE PELICAN INN & MUIR BEACH
A few minutes down the road from the Muir Woods National Monument is Muir Beach, where you also find the relaxing and quaint Pelican Inn. This inn takes you back to 16th century England is a great place to come and enjoy a beverage or meal after your Muir Woods hike. This small inn is home to a great pub that delivers sustainable and delicious English fare.
We visited on a gloomy day, and the dining room’s fireplace and cozy feel were a perfect stop on our Marin County adventure. We had the fish and chips as well as the roasted carrots. Both were great, and I cannot wait to return for an overnight stay to enjoy the Beef Wellington with a glass of wine by the fire.
On a sunny day, I can imagine these lawns are a great place to picnic, as people were gathered doing just that even in wet weather. The patio was green and inviting. Don’t forget to step out to see Muir Beach after your meal. This quiet cove is a favorite for sunbathing and bonfires by locals and is accessed by the 450-foot bridge that connects Muir Beach to the parking lot.
MUIR BEACH OVERLOOK
Muir Beach Overlook is a beautiful place to end your day. Follow the staircase out from the parking lot for panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Muir Beach, and the Point Reyes Peninsula on a clear day. History buffs will enjoy seeing the remnants of observation bunkers used by the San Francisco Coastal Defense System in WW2.
If you are craving more adventure, follow the 1.5-mile coastal trail to Slide Ranch and down to the North Beach tidepools. This 3-mile round trip adventure is fun for kids and on our next time list!
NEXT TIME LIST
Hike the 3.1 mile Fern Creek, Lost & Ocean View Loop
Hike the 6.3 mile Bootjack Trail Loop
Picnic and hike the 9.7 mile (difficult level) Ben Johnson Trail (aka Dipsea Trail) from Muir Woods to Stinson Beach
After an unforgettable two days in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks in June 2020, we were ready to start our Yosemite adventure. Due to COVID-19, Yosemite had just reopened with reservations required about a week before our visit. Having an in-park lodging reservation automatically gave us an entry reservation for the park so we did not have to compete with the masses for our entry reservation. Here is what we did with our two days in Yosemite!
We woke up in the Yosemite Southgate Hotel & Suites, about a 25-minute drive from the SOUTH ENTRANCE to Yosemite. Our room was large and had a pull-out bed for our son, a coffee maker, and a fridge. All rooms include the fridge which is important when you are planning to do breakfast in the room. We booked with Expedia to ensure flexibility due to COVID and a competitive rate. Oakhurst was a great starting point because it is close enough to get to the park quickly, but also a town with plenty of hotel and gas options. We filled up with gas before heading into the park and were in line for the entry gate in no time.
MARIPOSA GROVE/WAWONA
Since we only had two days in Yosemite, we opted to skip the first right turn towards MARIPOSA GROVE because we had just spent time in the Sequoias. However, this would make a great first stop. The BIG TREES TRAIL LOOP is an easy .3 mile 30 -45 minute walk through the towering Sequoias. Due to COVID, there was an additional 2 mile walk to the grove from the parking area.
Most of the other sites in Wawona, like the Pioneer Yosemite History Museum, Wawona Golf Course and Wawona Hotel were all closed as well. We drove through the area pretty quickly and decided this would be on the “next time” list. This stop would take a full morning between visiting Mariposa Grove and exploring Wawona. After a full morning, it would be nice to enjoy lunch (and a glass of wine!) at the Wawona Hotel Dining Room. There is a 24-hour mini Chevron station in Wawona as well in case you need to fill up before the one hour drive towards the valley.
GLACIER POINT
As we headed towards the valley, our first stop was GLACIER POINT. I highly recommend taking this detour on your way in to the park, as there is no shuttle service to this overlook. After driving into the park from the Wawona area for about 40 minutes, you will see the turn off for Glacier Point Road on the right in Chinquapin. It is about 30 additional minutes out to the overlook on Glacier Point Road, but the views are worth it!
At 3,000 feet above the Valley floor, it is a great introduction to the park. You can see most of Yosemite’s famous sites from this area, such as Half Dome, Yosemite Valley, several waterfalls and Yosemite’s High Country. It is also a great place to picnic and let kids run around a bit. There were families moving around camping chairs just relaxing and taking in the views as the kids enjoyed rock climbing and exploring.
Views of Half Dome and Vernal & Nevada Falls to the right
There are several trails around Glacier Point, including the 4.8 mile FOUR MILE TRAIL that will take you down to Yosemite Valley. We chose to stroll the paved trails along the guard rail and take in the views! It was the perfect introduction to Yosemite for our son. This is a great spot to let your kids break out their binoculars or digital camera. It was fun to “get the lay of the land” by looking down into the valley. The Merced river snakes through the valley floor and the Ahwahnee Hotel looks like a castle peeking out of the trees. It was a great place to stretch our legs from the drive into the park and spark excitement for our two days in Yosemite!
Yosemite Valley from Glacier Point – views of the valley floor, Merced river, Upper & Lower Yosemite Falls Lots of places to explore and wander at Glacier Point
WAWONA TUNNEL VIEW
Once you drive the 30 minutes back to Wawona Road/Highway 41, you are not too far from the not-to-be missed pullout – the WAWONA TUNNEL VIEW. If you have seen someone post a family in Yosemite, chances are it was from Tunnel View. It is an easy stop, just turn left immediately following the tunnel. As you drive through the dark tunnel, there is excitement approaching the bright light and insane views to follow.
There are parking lots on both sides of the road as you exit, but the grand view is from the parking lot on the left. If parking is too full, do not be discouraged. Just circle around again as people are constantly coming and going very quickly here! I grew up going to Yosemite as a kid, so my brother and I had plenty of photo opportunities at Tunnel View! Of course I had to try to recreate this 80’s photo from my childhood with my son! How did we do?
The Wawona Tunnel and Tunnel View Pullout
BRIDALVEIL FALLS
As we made our way down Wawona Road into Yosemite Valley, the sights surrounded us and did not disappoint. Yosemite truly is a magical place, and it is amazing to look up at the granite rocks knowing there are climbers looking down at our car weaving through the valley floor. Our first stop was BRIDALVEIL FALLS.
With only two days in Yosemite, I highly recommend stopping here as you head into the valley for several reasons. Wawona Road, the road heading in and out of the valley, is one way, so this is an easy pull out as you head in as it is on the right side of the road. In addition, there is no shuttle service to the trailhead. Open year round, the trail is an easy 1/4 mile walk to the base of the 620 foot waterfall. Some of the trail heading up closer to the base of the waterfall was closed for renovations, but we still had great views from the pools below.
TRAIL SAFETY
Please use caution when exploring the rocks below the waterfall as they are very slippery. Also, be very aware and careful near any water areas in the parks as conditions can be unpredictable. Each year visitors are injured (or worse) due to slipping on rocks or being swept away in changing currents, etc. I read earlier this year about a hiker that slipped on the rocks and hit his head in this same area. There were many people hopping the construction fence and scaling the rocks up closer to the waterfall. I just can’t recommend that as it may look exciting, but it is very dangerous. Plus we had great views from the end of the designated trail!
Short hike to the base of Bridalveil Falls
YOSEMITE VILLAGE
DINING OPTIONS
After our stop in Bridalveil Falls, we were more than ready for a late lunch. Once again, due to COVID, our dining options were very limited. With the fluctuating changes surrounding COVID, make sure to check here for updated information about what is open and when if you are traveling in this pandemic. We opted to stop in the village to grab sandwiches at DEGNAN’S KITCHEN, a grab and go deli in the heart of Yosemite Village. In addition to deli offerings, Degnan’s Kitchen has salads, artisan pizzas, baked goods and a variety of beverage choices. It is an easy place to stop in, stock up and continue your adventure! If times were different, I would have loved to check out THE LOFT AT DEGNAN’S for a more leisure-like lunch with a glass of wine or cold craft beer! Another item on my “next time” list!
VALLEY VISITOR CENTER
We also used this stop to check out the (closed due to COVID) VALLEY VISITOR CENTER. Park Rangers had tents set up outside to answer any questions. We were able to purchase the $3.00 Junior Ranger book for our son to complete during our two days in Yosemite. We were also able to grab stamps for our National Park Passports and figure out our parking options as there was no shuttle service available due to COVID. During regular operations, you would spend a little more time checking out all the village has to offer, but our stop was pretty short. Our next stop was within walking distance and a favorite from my childhood, the Yosemite Valley Lodge.
YOSEMITE VALLEY LODGE
I cannot recommend the YOSEMITE VALLEY LODGE enough. It has a fantastic location along the bike path and provides the comforts of home with the National Park rustic feel. The lodge is home to a gift shop, Starbucks, a large cafeteria open for breakfast/lunch/dinner, a bar/lounge, a swimming pool and a bike rental stand. Those of you that follow my itineraries know how much we love in-park lodging at National Parks. Yosemite Valley Lodge can be very difficult to book, and I made our reservations 12 months in advance. Even then, they only had one night available. However, I continued to check and was able to secure the second night about 10 months in advance. So do not give up! Keep checking availability as I have mentioned in other posts.
Traditional Room at the Yosemite Valley Lodge in the Laurel Building
MERCED RIVER and SWINGING BRIDGE
Once we were settled in our room, we were anxious to head back out because there is so much to do and see in Yosemite! The back door of our room lead right out the the bike path so we followed the path a short distance (10 minutes maybe) straight to SWINGING BRIDGE and the MERCED RIVER. It was a beautiful bike ride for my son and we enjoyed the views across the meadows as we approached the river.
We took time to sit down by the “beach” along the river as my son splashed away in the water. The views of Yosemite Falls and Half Dome towering about the river are phenomenal. We sat in awe of our surroundings. We enjoyed a kombucha on the beach, but the lodge had informed us that you are more than welcome to grab a drink at the bar and walk it down to the beach for a fun happy hour!
Biking from Yosemite Valley Lodge to Swinging Bridge over the Merced RiverCooling off in the Merced River under Sentinel Bridge
COOK’S MEADOW
After our swim, we crossed Sentinel Bridge to continue the loop to COOKS MEADOW. My son rode the bike path along Wawona Road and the views were astonishing. It was almost 6pm (late lunch for the win), and we felt like we had the place to ourselves. With only two days in Yosemite, we wanted to make the most of our daylight hours. The boardwalk weaves through the meadow and back to the bike path all along Wawona Road. Right before we turned to cross the meadow towards Yosemite Falls we passed the oldest building in Yosemite, dating back to 1879, the YOSEMITE CHAPEL. This walk/bike ride was beautiful and I cannot recommend it enough! The loop from the lodge is about 1 mile, easy and paved or boardwalk the entire way. Crossing the meadow towards Yosemite Falls is a view everyone should enjoy!
Weaving through Cook’s Meadow on the boardwalkViews along the Cook’s Meadow Loop – Yosemite Chapel, Showy Milkweed, Sentinel Rock
YOSEMITE FALLS
Although it was getting late, we decided to check out the LOWER YOSEMITE FALLS TRAIL as I knew this is a very busy trail and would be crowded during peak hours. Our son was able to ride his bike for some of the trail and again, the views were remarkable. The trail to the falls is easy, with just a slight incline towards the end. At the base of the 2,425 foot waterfall you can feel the spray as the water flows down. We even saw climbers repelling down from the top of the lower falls. It was a great time to do the trail as it was mostly shaded and not too crowded. Again, please use caution around wet rocks and waterfalls in Yosemite. There were many people climbing all over the rocks to get closer to the base of the waterfall. This is not recommended!
Lower Yosemite Falls Trail – Can you see the climbers repelling down the waterfall?
DINING AT YOSEMITE VALLEY LODGE
As we began seeing last light on the valley floor, we knew it was time to head back to the lodge. The Upper & Lower Yosemite Falls trailheads are right next to the lodge, so it didn’t take much time to get back. BASE CAMP EATERY is the cafeteria at the Lodge, and offers a variety of items for dine in and to-go. I have some of my favorite childhood memories adding massive slices of cake to my tray sliding through the line. It has changed a lot since then, but the nostalgia surrounding it made it something we were going to try.
Due to COVID, we decided to take it to go back to enjoy on our room’s porch. We all chose the meatloaf and macaroni and cheese plate and it was really good! We enjoyed an easy night and my husband and I enjoyed a quiet night on the porch as our son fell asleep. In an non-COVID world, I would have loved to have a glass of wine in THE MOUNTAIN ROOM LODGE, dinner in THE MOUNTAIN ROOM and to roast marshmallows for smores on their patio – all on my “next time” list!
Last light on the valley floor – heading back to Yosemite Valley Lodge from the Lower Yosemite Falls trailDinner on our porch at the Yosemite Valley Lodge
OUR PLAN – DAY TWO
EXPLORE YOSEMITE VALLEY – 84°
Waking up in the center of the valley is truly incredible and so peaceful. I can only imagine how camping in Yosemite must feel (on the “next time” list!). Morning coffee on the patio while filling my husband in on the adventures I have planned for the day is one of my favorite things. Knowing we only had two days in Yosemite, I loved knowing we had the entire day ahead of us!
As always, I picked something I knew would get crowded to do first thing in the morning. I chose another nostalgic hike to start our day, the hike to MIRROR LAKE. Yosemite Valley offers so many beautiful hikes, but this one stands out from my childhood. We headed out for the day and as we hopped in the car I couldn’t help but smile at the view of Yosemite Falls from the Lodge parking lot. It is all just so beautiful. Yosemite really is magical. I know everyone says that. But really, there is a reason.
MIRROR LAKE
Mirror Lake is an easy, 2 mile flat hike on the east side of the valley. You can park at the horse stables near Curry Village, or during non COVID times, take the shuttle to Mirror Lake Trailhead at shuttle stop #17. As a kid, my family walked this trail in summer and winter. We used to whine and complain like it was the longest walk ever. Not at all. It is incredibly kid friendly and has many beautiful things to see. Mirror Lake is the closest you can get to half dome without actually hiking or climbing it. The tranquil waters act as a mirror for the beauty surrounding it.
PARKING AND TRAILHEAD
To start our hike, we parked at the stables which are right by the service road where the trail begins. Along the side of the service road is an actual trail, so although my childhood memories were walking along the paved service road, I insisted we follow the trail on the side. My son loved climbing along the boulders on the trail. At the first bridge crossing the creek, stay to the left along the road. To get to Mirror Lake in one-mile, follow the service road.
TRAIL TO MIRROR LAKE or MIRROR LAKE 5 MILE LOOP
I took us to the right walking along the right side of Tenaya Creek. Although it was beautiful, we realized about 2 miles in that I had taken us on the 5-mile loop of Mirror Lake. We reached a point along the creek to cut across, but the water was VERY cold to walk through and led us to a marshy wetland with limited options to cross over again. We quickly realized we were in the middle of Mirror Lake!
From the start of the trail my husband had said he was concerned we were on the wrong path, but I insisted I knew what I was doing (because I did it every year 25+ years ago?!?!?). Michael is a good sport and just gave me that “I told you so” look in the middle of the lake! Ha! But good memories. It did not take too long to cross over again and then we were there! We took some time to enjoy the views and have a small snack before walking back on the paved road! There were many people heading up as we walked back, including lots of families biking which would be really beautiful! When we got back to the car, parking was full with people circling for spots. Earlier we had no problem parking, so early was key for this trail.
Mirror Lake
HAPPY ISLES ART & NATURE CENTER
During non-COVID times, the HAPPY ISLES ART & NATURE CENTER is a short walk away and would be fun place to check out with kids too. This would be a great place to attend a Junior Ranger program or let you ranger ask questions, explore and even take his/her Junior Ranger oath! Since the nature center was closed, we headed back to Yosemite Village so our son could take his Junior Ranger oath. I absolutely love the National Park Junior Ranger programs. More on that here. But they really are so special to kids. He talked to this sweet ranger for almost 10 minutes about all of his adventures. It makes me so proud to see him so proud of what he has done and seen! The activity books are the perfect activity for quiet evenings, getting ready in the am, restaurants and specific to CF breathing treatment times.
An official Junior Ranger!
THE AHWAHNEE HOTEL
Once our Junior Ranger was officially sworn in, it was time to have lunch and celebrate! What better place to relax and celebrate than THE AHWAHNEE HOTEL? Unfortunately, due to COVID, the dining room was only open for dinner, so we planned to take advantage of the bar’s “Gourmet Grab & Go” box lunches.
The Ahwahnee Dining room is definitely a special treat and reservations are strongly recommended. Due to the changing situation with COVID, I would recommend checking out the latest offerings. As I write this, everything is take-out only, but it makes for a fun gourmet picnic! Although the Ahwahnee had dining tables set up outside, we decided to picnic on the grass. It was a special time, although it was cut short by some aggressive squirrels! We ended up enjoying the outdoor couches surrounding the dining room and treating our son to an ice cream treat from The Sweet Shop!
A beautiful picnic at the Ahwahnee
BIKE RIDING IN THE VALLEY
After lunch, we headed back to our room to regroup and decided our son should pick the afternoon. He wanted to head back to the Merced River and go on another bike ride. Although we had just done it yesterday, it was a lot of fun so we put on our suits and headed out! Bikes are a great way to navigate Yosemite Valley and if I hadn’t been 32 weeks pregnant, we all would have taken a family bike ride. If your kids are able, I highly suggest enjoying the valley on bike! There are over 12 miles of flat bike paths that take you to a majority of the highlights! The Yosemite Valley Lodge and Curry Village have bike rental stands if you do not want to bring them with you. We had an incredible day in 2021 bike riding and you can read all of the details and our itinerary here!
SENTINEL BEACH
We headed back to the MERCED RIVER along the bike trail and headed north of SWINGING BRIDGE toward SENTINEL BEACH. Hanging out on the shore, we saw so many people come cruising down the river on rafts. The water was so calm, and families looked like they were having a great time. This is another “next time” item and it turns out you can rent rafts through your in-park lodging and enjoy the river starting in Curry Village! We had a lot of fun relaxing on the shore before heading out for an afternoon bike ride/parent walk! We cruised around a similar path as the night before, through Cook’s Meadow and even saw several deer and two brown bears! It was incredible.
The Merced River and biking through the Valley
CURRY VILLAGE
After cruising the valley it was time for dinner! I wanted to check out CURRY VILLAGE, another childhood favorite. Due to construction, Curry Village has a variety of food trucks in the parking lot to add to their dinner options. We had some delicious tacos and checked out the “under renovation” Pizza Patio. I can imagine relaxing with some delicious pizza and a craft beer under the towering views of Glacier Point would have felt pretty good! So again, adding it to the “next time” list. Deer were out and about which was a lot of fun for our son to see.
We went to bed with happy hearts and beautiful views of the moon from our patio. As we enjoyed the moonlight and quiet, we heard some major noises in the bushes and then saw glowing eyes staring at us on the porch. Due to COVID, there was a lot of news about how animals were out and about more due to park closures. After our experience, we could not agree more.
OUR PLAN – DAY THREE
YOSEMITE VALLEY TO SAN DIEGO – 84°
Waking up on the last day of vacation is so hard. Let’s be real. I am always grateful for the time we have had, but it is hard to know it is time to pack up and start our 7-hour drive home! I always have a few last-minute “let’s try this” items so we took our time in the morning and headed out right before check-out to see some last-minute sights!
EL CAPITAN
As much as our son loved the documentary “Free Solo,” I knew we had to take him to look for climbers on the granite monolith EL CAPITAN, or as my son would say, “EL CAP.” We headed west out of the valley and pulled off the side of the road at EL CAPITAN MEADOW to check out the climbers. My son used his binoculars and immediately saw two heading up and it was so exciting! As far as we could tell it was not Alex Honnold, but my son was thrilled anyways! Can you spy them in the photo?
Looking for climbers on El Capitan
VALLEY VIEW LOOKOUT
As you continue towards the park exit after El Capitan on the loop road, the beautiful VALLEY VIEW lookout is waiting for you. We were not sure what we were looking for and it came up quick. We actually had to loop around to get there again! Shortly before the exit to 140 and the turnaround towards Bridalveil Falls, there is a small pullout on the left hand side of the road with incredible views. It is a great way to say goodbye to the valley as you head out. It definitely maximizes your time to hit the one way stops on the way in and the way out versus turning around over and over on one-way roads. As we our two days in Yosemite, it was hard to say goodbye but our hearts were full from the magic.
Valley View Lookout
FINAL GOODBYE AT TUNNEL VIEW
On the way out of the valley, we pulled over at TUNNEL VIEW to say a final goodbye to our two days in Yosemite. It seemed fitting as it we entered the valley here and said our final goodbye here. There are so many amazing ways to experience Yosemite and I feel like we did not even begin to scratch the surface. We had an incredible trip, but I know there are so many more things we want to do and see. In addition, I am only writing about a summer version. Imagine what a winter wonderland in Yosemite can bring you. I have left a few pieces of my heart around CA, but Yosemite definitely has some of it. I am confident we will be back.
Saying goodbye to Yosemite at Tunnel View
I always keep a “NEXT TIME” list when we travel. It is important to share because this blog is subjective and I want my readers to know about the myriad opportunities that I am still hoping to experience. Whenever I read, hear, research something outside of my experience, I will include it here. My hope in to eventually fully experience these destinations when I visit again (and I can’t wait to do so). Next trip, I want to to see more of the park and experiences a few new things. I also want to visit some of the most popular places the were closed due to COVID.
THINGS WE WANTED TO DO THAT WERE CLOSED OR IMPACTED BY COVID
Are you planning a family adventure in the Sequoias but unsure what to do? Then you are in the right place! Here is my guide for visiting Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks! Exploring the beauty of the high sierra of central California is something that will stick with you forever. Your children will surely remember the giant trees and incredible views. Standing beneath a towering Sequoia is a sight everyone should enjoy, and it is inspiring for kids! Here are the sights you don’t want to miss, followed by our one-night itinerary for visiting Sequoia National Park!
DON’T MISS THESE HIGHLIGHTS WHEN VISITING SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK
Here are our favorite things to do and see inside Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. You can read more about each destination below. Once you pick what is suitable for your family, you can create your adventure. Or jump below to one of our family’s itineraries that includes the park highlights.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are unique gems on the western slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The backcountry offers endless opportunities for backpacking and exploration. However, when traveling with kids, chances are good that you are looking for adventure with a side of comfort and convenience. Here are some essential things to know before heading into the Sierra Nevada Mountains on your quest for family adventures.
NO CELL SERVICE
There is no cellular service in the parks, regardless of your carrier. The lodges have wifi for guests, but it is very spotty and nothing substantial enough for streaming or Zoom. This is important to remember when it comes to your directions and plans. Screenshot or print important information or lodging confirmations you may want access to during your visit.
Make sure to download the National Park app onto your phone, search Sequoia and Kings Canyon and then click “save this park for offline use.” I highly recommend downloading the park app before your visit. It has information on current conditions and a map that shows you where you are at all times without cell service.
NO GAS AVAILABLE IN THE PARK
There is no gas available inside the park. Make sure to fill your tank before heading in because there is plenty to see and do during your visit. Don’t let gas be what holds you back!
CHECK CURRENT ROAD CONDITIONS
As with any wilderness area, it is important to check current road conditions before your visit. You must safely navigate park roads during your visit. Weather is a big issue for the parks, and during winter months, many main roads are closed, making it impossible to drive through the park. Although the park is open year round, sometimes, the highway closures make most of it inaccessible. We love to visit in summer and fall, but I always check the National Park Service website and monitor the conditions leading up to our trips. I also follow @SequoiaKingsCanyonNPS on Instagram because they tend to post timely information for visitors.
WINDY ROADS
When entering Sequoia National Park from the southern foothill area, you have about a 90-minute drive up a very windy road until you reach the “hub” of Sequoia National Park. If anybody in your car is susceptible to car sickness, I highly suggest Dramamine before you start the climb. Our son struggles with getting car sick on windy mountain roads, and Dramamine has saved our adventures many times. If you forget, there is a pharmacy in Three Rivers right off the road where we purchased it last minute. And in the worst case, having a few of these bags in the glove box can save the day (I speak from experience!!)!
HIGHER ALTITUDE
Many destinations and hikes in Sequoia National Park are between 5,000 – 7,500 feet in elevation. These higher altitudes are new for many and may cause shortness of breath or dehydration. Make sure to bring plenty of water and take your time. There is so much to see around you; slow down and take it all in. The park visitor centers and lodge lobbies have water bottle-filling stations. Make sure your kids are staying hydrated too!
BLACK BEARS
Bears are found throughout the park. A bear sighting is fascinating and memorable. Obviously, it is important for your safety to watch from a distance and never approach a bear. In addition, make sure to store all food and scented items in the bear lockers in the park parking lots. Hide your coolers and bags, as bears know what they are looking for! You can read more about bear safety from the park here.
IN-PARK LODGING – BOOK NOW!
In-park lodging is incredibly limited, and books up months in advance. I highly recommend holding a reservation even if you are beginning to think about a visit. You will need to pay for the first night as a deposit, but you can cancel for a full refund up to two days in advance. If everything is booked, do not be discouraged. Keep checking for cancellations- more on my strategy for booking in-park lodging below.
I also highly recommend staying outside the park the night before you enter. Coming from the south, the final hour up Generals Highway to the Wucksachi Lodge is windy and not ideal in the dark. Consider staying outside the park in Exeter, Visalia, or Three Rivers the night before when coming from hours away. You will save money and probably get a complimentary breakfast to take with you into the park. Below, you can read more about our favorite place to stay the night before our park visit- the Best Western in Exeter, CA.
LIMITED IN-PARK DINING OPTIONS AND HOURS
Nothing can bring a trip down more than being hungry in a beautiful location and unable to get food where you are. Dining is limited in the parks. The main food options are at the Wucksachi Lodge, Lodgepole Market, and Grant Grove. Check the current hours and have a tentative plan in your head. We have found the hours to be very short with gaps between lunch and dinner service.
For this reason, I HIGHLY recommend bringing a picnic into the park with you. This ensures you have a variety of snacks and sandwiches or wraps to keep everyone happy throughout the day. The Lodgepole Market has grab-and-go options as well. It is essential to use the bear lockers when parking to avoid any issues. The dining options are nothing you miss out on, and everything costs more inside the park.
PARK ENTRANCE FEE
Current park fees are $35/vehicle for seven days. If you plan to combine your visit with Yosemite National Park, I highly recommend America the Beautiful Pass for $80. You can purchase either entry at the entrance station. You will have access to all US national parks and monuments for a year for only $10 more than the two park entry fees. Use this link to check out the other discounts available that may apply to you before your visit (4th-grade pass, military discount, etc.).
WEATHER AND SEASONAL CLOSURES
Summer months are my favorite time to visit the park. Many roads and destinations are closed during winter months and snow chains are often required to visit. We visited at the start of summer, which gave us beautiful blue sky, 70°+ adventures. We also visited in late fall, when the leaves were falling, and temperatures dropped to low 40° at night. However, the winter months change accessibility to many locations. We had friends walk to General Sherman in the snow. They had lunch atWucksachi Lodgein fog so thick they could not see the trees around them. If you are visiting in colder times, check out this post from 2TravelDads for information on visits in colder weather.
WHAT TO PACK
When visiting most national parks, I always pack a few similar things for the kids. I mention a few in this guide, but for the complete list, check out my post on the “must-haves” for kids in National Parks. Our family takes a lot of road trips, so I have a lot of recommendations in that area as well. Check out my post on road trip essentials if you are nervous about having the kids in the car for so long!
PHOTOS ON iPHONE
You definitely want to bring a camera when you visit Sequoia National Park. My camera is my iPhone, so it does not have to be anything extra. However, I read about a trick for tall buildings, tried it in Sequoia, and wanted to share. Put your phone on panoramic and tilt it from the bottom up to the top of the tree. Then you don’t have to have half the tree cut off!
WHAT TO DO IN SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK
There are two entrances to Sequoia National Park. You can enter from the northern Kings Canyon Big Stump Entrance Station or the southern Mountain Entrance Station. Coming from San Diego, we recommend the Ash Mountain Entrance Station and a stop at the Foothills Visitor Center to start your adventure.
ASH MOUNTAIN ENTRANCESTATION
As you pay your fee or purchase your pass to enter the park, make sure to ask for a few essential items. You want to get the park brochure, which includes a park map, and the park newsletter/trip planner, with information relevant to the season of your visit.
Of course, your next stop should be a family picture with the entrance sign! The views of the Kaweah River are beautiful here, so take a moment to hop out and stretch your legs.
There are usually people around to take a photo, but if not, I always have my $5 selfie stick from Target, and my husband hates it! Ha! It was the perfect tool to ensure we still had family pictures during our June 2020 peak COVID madness trip!
After the entry gate, you will begin a 90-minute windy drive up the Generals Highway to the Giant Forest. This area is one of the most notable highlights of visiting Sequoia. But do not rush straight up the highway, as there are many fun stops on the way up. With limited time in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, you want to see your sights in the order of your drive to avoid added driving time.
FOOTHILLS VISITOR CENTER
One of my first stops in any national park is the visitor center to pick up a few essential items. Hopefully, you grabbed your map and newsletter at the entrance station, but if not, you can pick one up here. This is an excellent opportunity to check in with a ranger about your plan in case there are any updates or closures you should be aware of. You can also purchase tickets for the Crystal Cave Tour and stamp your national park passport here. The visitor center has interpretive displays that teach you about the park, restrooms, water bottle stations, and free WiFi.
JUNIOR RANGER PROGRAM
We always pick up my son’s complimentary Junior Ranger booklet here. You can read more about the national park service Junior Ranger program here. This program makes a great souvenir and keeps the kids engaged as you explore the park. You can also email the park requesting a brochure via mail or download the Junior Ranger booklet in advance. These were great options during COVID closures.
TUNNEL ROCK
Shortly after the visitor center, you will see Tunnel Rock. Although the rock is on the left side of the road, there is parking on the right of General’s Highway. The pull-off gives you great views, and Tunnel Rock is fun to explore right across the street. People were hiking up and around the rock for additional adventures, but the park asks that you stay on the trail below. Watch for poison oak as you explore! Make this quick 10-minute stop to stretch your legs, check out the views, and then head up the mountain.
HOSPITAL ROCK
Your next stop up General’s Highway is the Hospital Rock picnic area on the left side of the road. When visiting Sequoia National Park, this is a great place to plan for a facility stop. This area has a parking lot, several picnic tables, bathrooms, and abundant shade. Make sure to store your food properly in the bear lockers. Also, poison oak is growing all over, so be mindful!
Head across the street to check out Hospital Rock, a large rock with California Native American petroglyphs. It was once the hospital for the people that lived in the area. After the rock, take the short trail (built by the Civilian Conservation Corps) to a waterfall and the Kaweah River. This is a great stop to cool off and enjoy along the way. Again, watch for the poison oak! It was everywhere on our river walk.
GIANT FOREST MUSEUM
After about 90 minutes of driving, you will arrive at the Giant Forest Museum, one of many visitor centers and the “hub” of Sequoia National Park. This is a great place to park, store your food in a bear locker and explore. This parking lot fills quickly and many times is full by 9 am.
Inside the museum, several interpretive displays will engage your kids, and rangers can answer any questions you may have. Sequoia is the first national park formed to protect a living organism – the giant sequoia tree. The area in front of the museum is home to the giant Sentinel Sequoia tree, where kids can walk the tree’s height along the interactive ruler on the pavement below.
SEQUOIA SHUTTLE SERVICE
From here, you can hop on the Sequoia shuttle to explore many of the upcoming highlights. You can check current service hours and locations here. The shuttles run in summer and during some holiday periods in winter. This is an excellent option if you visit Sequoia National Park during peak crowds. Once you obtain a parking spot, you can wander the area and hop on the shuttle to get around. No more parking frustration!
GIANT FOREST TRAILS
Several hiking trails leave from the Giant Forest Museum area. Many are paved, which makes them stroller and wheelchair accessible. Our favorites are the Beetle Rock pathway and the popular one-mile Big Trees Trail through the giant sequoias. Next trip, I want to check out Sunset Rock, so I will update here once we have explored that 1.4-mile hike!
BEETLE ROCK
This paved pathway is very short and leaves from the parking area across from the Giant Forest Museum. The views are stunning and a great way to begin your adventure in Sequoia!
THE BIG TREES TRAIL
The Big Trees Trail is an excellent introduction to the sequoia groves that John Muir named in 1875. The one-mile loop leaves from the Giant Forest Museum and takes you through the tall forest of the world’s largest trees. The trees in this area make up half of the Earth’s oldest trees. The route is a mix of paved and boardwalk, making this loop stroller and wheelchair friendly.
After exploring the Giant Forest area, enjoy the 3-mile detour from the General’s Highway down Crescent Meadow Road for some other spectacular sights.
MORO ROCK
The Moro Rock trail has incredible views but is narrow, very steep, and not the best for younger kids. Our son did great, but we did pass several kids (and adults) in tears due to the narrow trails and long drops. Although only a 1/2-mile round trip, you climb over 300 feet uphill on over 400 stairs to reach the top of the bald granite dome. There are guard rails, but even then, I held my son’s hand almost the whole time. The views of the great western divide from the top are breathtaking, and chances are you will be short of breath as you climb to over 6,700 feet in elevation.
The parking lot for the Moro Rock trailhead tends to fill up quickly, so if you are interested in this hike, be there earlier in the day. During the summer, the trail is accessible by the park shuttles. The parking lot has bathrooms if you or your littles need a break. The hike took us about an hour.
When your time in the park is limited, make sure to choose the things you will love. Think about your circumstances on this trip to decide if Moro Rock is the best for your family. During our family’s hike, I was 32 weeks pregnant, hiking with my 7-year-old in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic (social distancing is impossible on this tight trail). It was hard to take it all in the way I wish I could have.
TUNNEL LOG
From Moro Rock, continue down the last mile toward Crescent Meadow. As you get closer to the meadow, you can drive through the famous Tunnel Log, a fallen sequoia-turned tunnel. Kids of all ages enjoy the experience.
CRESCENT MEADOW– DO NOT MISS WHEN VISITING SEQUOIA
Crescent Meadow is one of our favorite places in Sequoia National Park. I cannot recommend this stop enough, especially when visiting in summer. The meadow has several trails around a wetland and is so easy (and fun!) for kids. I love wildflowers, and in spring, this trail does not disappoint. The trail is easy for all abilities, surrounded by giant sequoia trees, and has plenty of places for a picnic. Bears are often seen in the meadow early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
We like to head east from the parking lot towards Tharp’s Log (about a mile out). You may share this paved portion of the High Sierra Trail with a hiker heading on a backpacking trip toward Mt. Whitney. Shortly after, the trail splits, and we head to the left, towards the south end of the meadow and this beautiful view and quote from John Muir. It is an exceptional area of the park, and I highly recommend it. Kids will enjoy exploring the sequoia trees in this less crowded area.
Lots of fun for kids along the Crescent Meadow Trail
THARP’S LOG
Follow the trail one mile out under giant Sequoia trees to Tharp’s Log. It is a fun stop for kids along the trail. Crescent Meadow Trail as it is an old Pioneer’s homemade in a hollowed-out Sequoia Tree. Hale Tharp is known as the first non-native American to enter the Giant Forest. He started a cattle ranch in the meadow and lived in the log. You can look inside from the door for a peek inside his old 19th-century home. This is an excellent stop for elementary kids learning about this era in school.
Tharp’s Log on the Crescent Meadow Trail
CHIMNEY TREE
Continue on the trail past Tharp’s Log and follow the signs to Chimney Tree. The hike takes you into a forest of bright green ferns and towering Sequoias. Chimney Tree is a burnt-out Sequoia that is still standing, just off the main trail. It is a fun stop, especially for kids, as you can step inside and look up at the sky from the tree trunk.
From Chimney Tree, head back towards Crescent Meadow and the parking lot. This is a beautiful walk through more ferns out to the meadow. One highlight of the hike comes at the end; at the fallen sequoia tree, you climb over to cross the wetland meadow. It is a beautiful view crossing the meadow back to the parking lot!
GENERAL SHERMAN TREE
You must stop to see the General Sherman Tree, over 3000 years old and taller than the Statue of Liberty. At 275 feet tall and 36 feet in diameter at the base, it is the world’s largest tree. The trail starts at a large parking area and is one-mile round trip – about a 1/2 mile downhill to the tree and then 1/2 mile back uphill. They do have benches along the trail if you need a rest. Stop to catch your breath and take in the sequoia forests and towering trees surrounding you. This trail is heavily trafficked, so be prepared for crowds. If you are up for a longer hike, take the 2.1-mile Congress Trail loop through the towering trees.
ACCESSIBILITY TO THE GENERAL SHERMAN
The trail down from the parking lot is pretty steep but paved, so some people do push strollers up & down. However, I do not recommend it because there are several spots with steps where you need a plan for lifting the stroller up and down. There is a wheelchair-accessible trail to the tree from a separate parking area off General’s Highway before the turnoff for the General Sherman Tree. However, you must have a disability placard to use the parking lot. If the park shuttles are running, they drop you at the accessible trail.
TOKOPAH FALLS TRAIL – DO NOT MISS WHEN VISITING SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK
Tokopah Falls Trailhead
The Tokopah Falls Trail is beautiful and a great place to go first thing in the morning if you stayed the night at Wucksachi Lodge. This heavily trafficked trail is a little over 3 miles round trip (1.7 miles from Lodgepole Campground to Tokopah Falls) and is worth every minute of the time it takes you! I highly recommend this hike when visiting Sequoia National Park.
You can always stop in at the Lodgepole Visitor Center if you need an updated map or have any questions. You can also purchase tickets to the Crystal Cave tour here. *AS OF 2023 THIS VISITOR CENTER IS CLOSED FOR RENOVATIONS. Check current hours here.
If you need snacks for your hike, pop into the Lodgepole Market before heading to the trailhead. Park in the Lodgepole Campground parking lot and head into the campground to cross the bridge over the river. The trailhead is on the right after you cross the bridge.
LODGEPOLE CAMPGROUND
Lodgepole Campground is a terrific spot for camping when visiting Sequoia. Spots were spread out along the river, there was a lot of shade, and people were enjoying themselves swimming and wading in the river. There is a market and cafe close to the campground with all you need for camping or picnicking. Reservations can be challenging, so plan or monitor for a cancellation!
TOKOPAH FALLS TRAIL – WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
As you start on the trail, head up (slight uphill on the way to the falls) along the river across from Lodgepole campsites. This trail had a lot of shade in the beginning and was filled with many points to explore. We immediately started to notice bugs and were grateful we had put on mosquito-repellent bracelets. So definitely plan on some form of bug protection, so you and your littles are not eaten alive!
You can stop along the river in so many areas, which is a great way to rest from the shortness of breath you will probably feel at times due to the high altitude! Kids will enjoy climbing the granite rocks and boulders along the trail. The trail is well maintained, with several small bridges over water running into the river.
WILDLIFE ON THE TOKOPAH FALLS TRAIL
Wildlife may be out in the morning, and our experience did not disappoint! As we headed up, we saw several marmots enjoying the morning sunshine on the granite rocks.
At one point, I noticed movement on the tree ahead of us. We were shocked to see a mama bear and her three cubs enjoying the sunshine and dining on the bugs under the tree bark. Park brochures said the bears in Sequoia are not aggressive, so we were not panicked. However, that does not mean we would approach them, grab their attention, etc. We stayed back quite a bit, and soon after, mama took her cubs across the trail in front of us! It was an incredible sight, but it also reminded us never to get too comfortable in our surroundings when hiking!!
Seeing black bears in the wild was the ultimate highlight for me. This was a beautiful trail that I cannot recommend enough. Between the wildflowers, bright ferns, and wildlife, I felt like I was walking in a fairyland. As we reached the last 1/4 mile stretch to the falls, we were suddenly heading up large granite boulders.
TOKOPAH FALLS
The trail ends at the base of Tokopah Falls. During our June visit, the falls flowed, and many visitors climbed down to wade in the pools below. There are many warnings about drownings in the park, so please use caution when wading in any part of the river in Sequoia. We opted to find a quieter, calmer spot for our son to play. We enjoyed the views and had a snack on the rocks under the waterfall before heading down to a shallow spot on the river to cool off. The final stretch to the falls had very little shade, and the late morning heat was picking up!
I would definitely recommend hiking at the earlier end of the day. In addition to the cooler temperature and less crowded trail, the wildlife is enjoying the morning sun. On the way down, we noticed a few hikers stopped on the trail, and once again, we ran into a mama and two bear cubs! Our family all agreed this trail was one that would always stand out from our visit. We ended up seeing seven bears – 2 mamas and five cubs. So special.
WHAT TO DO IN KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK
The drive to Kings Canyon National Park is about 45 minutes from the Lodgepole area of Sequoia. I recommend checking out the highlights I mentioned before heading up toward Grant Grove. We love to visit Sequoia and Kings Canyon from the south and drive through on our way to Yosemite to loop the park versus going back and forth.
The Kings Canyon Visitor Center is a great last stop to turn in Junior Ranger books for a badge, stamp National Park passports, pick up any last-minute info or have any last-minute questions answered. You can also pick up wilderness permits here and at several other visitor centers.
PANORAMIC POINT – DO NOT MISS WHEN VISITING KINGS CANYON
Make sure to stop at Panoramic Point, just 10 minutes up the road from the Grant Grove Visitor Center. The drive from the village can be windy, and the road is narrow and barely has space for two-way at times, so take it slow to navigate other cars. The views are worth it! The 1/2 mile round trip loop is paved and easy for all levels.
The overlooks give you panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada, including Kings Canyon and Hume Lake and are truly breathtaking. The parking lot has facilities and picnic tables, so it is a great stop any time of day. However, sunset is a stunner, so I recommend trying to time your visit around the end of the day.
SUNSET AT PANORAMIC POINT
Although the sun does not set in front of you, the colors of the high sierra and mountains in front of you are beautiful. Wildlife is abundant, and Panoramic Point has peace to it at this time of night. It was in no way crowded, but people were set up in different areas to watch the sun go down at the end of a beautiful day. I recommend a blanket, snacks, and a glass of your beverage of choice!
GENERAL GRANT TREE
From the village, drive across the highway to the Grant Tree Trail. This .3-mile paved trail is similar to the General Sherman trail in Sequoia but with more space and fewer hills. Like the General Sherman trail, this trail includes information and exhibits about the giant sequoias along the trail. The General Grant Grove is named after the General Grant Tree, the second-largest living tree named “Our Nation’s Christmas Tree” by President Calvin Coolidge. There is also a fallen sequoia you can walk through, which our kids always enjoy.
BIG STUMP BASIN
Big Stump Basin is an excellent stop on your way out of the park on Highway 180, as it is located right before the Big Stump Entrance Station (where you will exit if heading to Yosemite). This 1.5-mile round trip loop is the site of 19th-century logging in Kings Canyon National Park and is filled with giant trees.
This trail is home to the Mark Twain Stump, a massive stump from what was once the largest sequoia in the world. You can climb the steps up the stump to see the huge rings.
REDWOOD MOUNTAIN OVERLOOK
Redwood Mountain Overlook is beautiful any time of day, but the real treat is sunset. A park ranger told us about this gem, and we loved it. We packed a little cheese and crackers and drove out to watch the sun go down over the trees of the Sequoia National Forest.
WHERE TO STAY WHEN VISITING SEQUOIA & KINGS CANYON
I cannot say enough about in-park lodging. Staying in the park as the sun goes down and the wildlife emerges is an experience with no rival. With your limited time in the parks, you do not want to spend extra hours driving in and out. Staying in the park whenever possible may be a bit of a splurge, but it creates a unique trip with time to relax and soak in all you are there to explore! In addition, when you wake up in the middle of the park, day visitors are coming in gates over 90 minutes away so you can target something sure to get crowded later first thing in the morning.
In-park lodging is in very high demand. If you are looking to travel soon, rooms may be booked. However, cancellations happen. Planning a road trip between Sequoia and Yosemite becomes even more challenging because your dates are not flexible. When in-park lodging is full, I check the availability every day. Sounds aggressive, but you need to be diligent when dates are firm. I keep the availability page open on my computer and refresh it every morning. I recommend not giving up if you go to book and there is no availability. The site updates daily as people cancel their reservations. I book free cancellation hotels through Expedia as a backup for the trip I am planning to we are not left stranded. This strategy has worked for me several times, including Zion Lodge and Bryce Canyon Lodge.
WUKSACHI LODGE – SEQUOIA
Wuksachi Lodge (pizza deck on the left)
Our room was in the Silliman Building
The Wuksachi Lodge has a very convenient location for your stay and is the only accommodation in the park that is open year round. When coming from southern California, this is a great pick. You can have a full day in the park and then stay the night and take on a popular location first thing before the crowds come in. If you are making a loop, you have plenty of time to check out Grant Grove on your way out of the parks.
The walk from the parking lot to your building can be long, depending on where you park. There are luggage carts available to assist you. It is essential to clear all food/garbage, coolers, trash, and toiletries from your car as you are in black bear country, and they are often seen in the lodge area.
ACCOMMODATIONS AT WUKSACHI LODGE
Strolling around the Wuksachi Lodge grounds
The lodge accommodations are clean and comfortable. We booked the standard room with two queen beds. Check-in was easy, and our room was ready at 4 pm, which is always appreciated after a long day. Our visit was during COVID, so everything was immaculate. The lobby had coffee in the morning for guests.
The main building has a beautiful bridge that crosses over to a paved path where we explored, relaxed, enjoyed a mocktail, and let our son play. This would be a great spot to take your happy hour after a long day exploring the park!
Wuksachi Lodge – Standard Room with 2 Queen Beds
We always need downtime in the evening due to our son’s Cystic Fibrosis. He needs a high-calorie snack and to complete his breathing treatments sometime before dinner. It was great to have access to television channels like Disney and Nickelodeon at the lodge for this downtime as we settled in, and he took care of treatments. I know that TV in the national parks is not the focus, but it is a welcome break when you need some time to relax before heading out again. If I hadn’t been pregnant, a glass of wine would have been wonderful during this time, as this photo is taken from a small table by the window.
DINING AT WUKSACHI LODGE
The Peaks Restaurant has to-go style breakfast items that can be enjoyed in the dining room, on the outdoor Pizza Deck patio, or in your room. The Pizza Deck serves pizzas, breadsticks, sandwiches, organic salads, and wine/craft beers to-go style. The outdoor patio is great on sunny afternoons! There is a water bottle filling station in the lobby by the Peaks Restaurant bar.
JOHN MUIR LODGE – KINGS CANYON
The John Muir Lodge is an excellent pick in Grant Grove. We have stayed in the cabins, not a lodge room. However, I want to mention it here because the cabins are very rustic, and the lodge offers cozy rooms you enter from a hallway. Both the lodge and cabins share the same amenities and lobby space. I love the rocking chairs around the porch lobby and the coffee in the mornings. There is also a microwave and water bottle filling station in the lobby.
DINING IN GRANT GROVE
The Grant Grove restaurant is the dining option for the John Muir Lodge and Grant Grove Cabins. The hours are limited, so make sure to know them because there are no other options in the area. I missed coffee the morning we packed up to take the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway to Cedar Grove. Since COVID, everything is being served to go, and you can enjoy it outdoors in the courtyard or inside the dining room. You can order at the window or from the terminals outside.
GRANT GROVE CABINS – KINGS CANYON
The Grant Grove Cabins are a fun and more rustic way to stay in the park. We stayed in a timber two double bed duplex cabin with a private attached bath. Some cabins are tent-style, and some are wood. Some of these cabins date back to 1910, which is incredible. You cannot compete with the location, as all of Grant Grove is accessible by walking. They are also about half the cost of the Wuksachi Lodge. The stargazing at night is incredible too.
BEST WESTERN – EXETER
We love the Best Western in Exeter, CA (4 1/2 hours from San Diego) because the rooms are spacious and clean and have a refrigerator and microwave. They also give you complimentary breakfast in the morning so you can get on the road quickly. It is easy to top off your gas tank in town and then drive 40 minutes to the park entrance. Visalia is about 45 minutes away and full of similar hotels that include breakfast. There are fun short stops on the drive up General’s Highway, so it is nice to start at the park entrance first thing in the morning.
OUR TRAVEL ITINERARIES
ONE-NIGHT IN SEQUOIA ITINERARY – JUNE 2020
DAY ONE – EXETER TO SEQUOIA – 75°
Woke up in Exeter, packed our cooler with the picnic we brought from San Diego the night before, grabbed breakfast, and topped off our gas tank before heading 45 north minutes to the Mountain Entrance of Sequoia
Stopped to take pictures by the entrance sign
Explored Tunnel Rock
Parked at Hospital Rock, walked down to the river
Hiked Moro Rock
Hiked around Crescent Meadow and had a picnic lunch
General Sherman Tree
Check in to Wuksachi Lodge
Explore the grounds of the lodge
Dinner at the Pizza Deck
Deer walking past our window in the morning
DAY TWO – SEQUOIA THROUGH KINGS CANYON TO OAKHURST – 82°
Woke up to deer outside our window at Wuksachi Lodge, had breakfast in our room, grabbed a coffee from the front desk, and passed more deer on the walk over
Hiked Tokopah Falls
Back to Wuksachi Lodge for cheeseburgers at the Pizza Deck (1:30pm)
Drove to Grant Grove (our son fell asleep!)
Panoramic Point
Grant Tree Trail
Ice Cream from the Grant Grove Market
Stopped in the gift shop and visitor center to turn in our son’s Junior Ranger book
Walked down into Big Stump Basin for a bit (not the whole trail)
Left Kings Canyon National Park via the Big Stump Entrance on our way to Oakhurst, to get ready for our day in Yosemite!
Saying Goodbye to the Sequoias!
OUR TWO-NIGHTS IN GRANT GROVE ITINERARY – OCTOBER 2022
DAY ONE – EXETER TO KINGS CANYON THROUGH SEQUOIA
Woke up in Exeter, grabbed breakfast, and topped off our gas tank before heading 45 north minutes to the Mountain Entrance of Sequoia
Stopped to take pictures by the entrance sign
Parked at the Giant Forest Museum
Walked to Beetle Rock
Explored the Giant Forest Museum
Hiked the Big Trees Trail
Wandered around Crescent Meadow
Lunch at the Wuksachi Lodge Pizza Deck
Drove to Grant Grove, checked in to Grant Grove Cabins
Sunset at Panoramic Point
Dinner at Grant Grove Grill
DAY TWO – GRANT GROVE TO ROADS END IN CEDAR GROVE (AND BACK)
Woke up in Grant Grove
To-go breakfast from Grant Grill
Loaded car for road trip to Cedar Grove
Stopped by the Grant Grove Visitor Center (10:15)
Took the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway to Road’s End (awesome adventure – post coming)
Back in Grant Grove at 3:30pm, checked with ranger for another incredible sunset location
Wandered Grant Grove Trail
Sunset at the Redwood Mountain Overlook
Dinner at Grant Grove Grill
Stargazing outside of our cabin
DAY THREE – GRANT GROVE TO SAN DIEGO
Woke up in our cabin, packed up, and checked out
Hiked Big Stump Basin
Home to San Diego
FROM SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK TO YOSEMITE
If you want to continue your adventure, follow along to Yosemite!
I always keep a “NEXT TIME” list when we travel. I feel like it is important to include because this blog is subjective, and I want my readers to know about the myriad opportunities I am still hoping to experience on my next visit. Whenever I read, hear, or research something outside my experience, I will include it here. I hope to eventually fully experience these destinations when I visit again (and I can’t wait to do so).
Sunset Rock Hike – 1.4 miles roundtrip
Hike the Congress Trail – 2.1 miles roundtrip
Crystal Cave Tour
Stay the night in a John Muir Lodge room
Creating family adventures and sharing them with you!
