Sequoia National Park Day Trip: Tips for Families

One of the very first long drives we took after moving to California was to Sequoia National Park. We were excited to see the iconic giant trees, do a bit of hiking, and breathe in that fresh mountain air. It sounded like a dream—and parts of it really were—but let’s just say it wasn’t all sunshine and Instagram-worthy moments.

The kids were younger back then, and let me tell you, the winding roads heading up made all of us a little dizzy. Even I got nauseous—and I’m usually fine with road trips. The constant turns combined with the elevation climb? Not ideal for a car with small kids.

Mental note: don’t bring toddlers or easily bored children unless you’re fully prepared.

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What to Expect at Sequoia National Park

Despite the chaos of that first visit, Sequoia National Park is absolutely worth seeing. Located in California’s southern Sierra Nevada, this national park is home to the General Sherman Tree—the largest tree on Earth by volume—and a forest full of awe-inspiring giant sequoias that make you feel like you stepped into a different planet.

Sequoia shares a boundary with Kings Canyon National Park, and your entrance fee covers both, which is a great deal if you want to maximize your trip.

Directions & Entrance Info

From Los Angeles or San Fernando Valley, the most direct route is taking the 5 to the 99 North, then heading east on 198. The drive can take about 4.5 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and stops.
Use the Ash Mountain Entrance Station if you’re coming via Highway 198—note that this entrance has tight switchbacks. If you’re sensitive to motion sickness, bring nausea bands or ginger chews.

Pro tip: Gas up before entering the park. There are no gas stations inside.

Where to Park

There are multiple lots and pullouts throughout the park depending on which trail or site you’re visiting. If you’re headed to see the General Sherman Tree, there’s a main parking lot off Wolverton Road with a paved walking path (downhill going, uphill coming back—brace yourself).

Parking fills up fast, especially in summer. Arrive early or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds.

What to Do (and Not Miss)

• General Sherman Tree – The main attraction. There’s a paved trail to view it, but it does involve stairs and a moderate walk.
• Tunnel Log – A fallen sequoia you can drive through. Fun for kids and Instagram.
• Moro Rock – A steep climb (350+ steps) but the views are unreal. Not toddler-friendly.
• Crescent Meadow – A beautiful, quieter area for a more peaceful walk.

Bring a backpack with water, snacks, and layers. Weather can shift quickly—a light jacket, comfy walking shoes, and reusable water bottles are must-haves.

Tips for Visiting Sequoia with Kids

• Be honest with yourself about your kids’ stamina. There’s a lot of walking, sometimes uphill.
• Pack snacks. Lots of snacks. Like, all the snacks.
• Motion sickness meds or patches for the drive up/down
• Binoculars and nature journals can make the trip more interactive for older kids
• Cell service is limited. Download maps and directions ahead of time.
• Picnic supplies are helpful since food options are limited.

We didn’t stay overnight, but there are campsites and lodges inside the park. If I were to do this again, I’d plan for a 2-day trip and book a stay at Wuksachi Lodge or look into cabins outside the park.

Final Thoughts

Despite the chaos of that first visit, Sequoia National Park is truly one of California’s gems. Would I bring small kids again? Probably not. But as a day trip with older kids or even just adults, it’s 100% worth it.

Nature, perspective, and trees that have been around for over 2,000 years? That kind of magic stays with you.