Explore Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

• Yosemite is home to iconic landmarks such as El Capitan (check out the movie Free Solo!), Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls. For smaller, easier views, go to Glacier Point or Four Mile hike. You can also spend an afternoon in Mariposa Grove, which has over 500 old giant sequoias. If you want to be really excited, try to get a permit to climb Half Dome. You can do this by using cables that are put on the mountain side for a short time to help you reach the top. A recent change to Yosemite includes a reservation for peak park hours. Do be sure to secure a reservation before your trip as they will sell out. For those staying in the park via Yosemite Valley Lodging, you do not need a reservation. A rental car is suggested for the most ease within the park, but there are transportation options from nearby airports and towns. There is a shuttle that operates within the Valley, but do make sure to review the NPS website before ensuring full operation.

• Visit Sequoia to check out the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree by volume in the world. Moro Rock is a granite dome that is amazing for sunrises, and is accessible via a long staircase. If you are looking to backpack or go in for an all-day hike, Sequoia houses Mount Whitney — the largest peak in the contiguous United States. Unfortunately, due to a fire in 2021, the Crystal Cave is closed. Sequoia National Park also has a shuttle and parking can be extremely limited throughout the park, so plan to use this service.

• Kings Canyon is intertwined with Sequoia but is known for its vast valley and rugged mountains. This canyon, made by the Kings River, is one of the deepest in North America. It also has the second-largest tree in the world, General Grant Tree. While in Kings Canyon, you can visit the Boyden Cavern via a guided tour showcasing stalactites, stalagmites and other formations. There are various waterfalls and viewpoints from the Kings Canyon National Scenic Byway (Grizzly Falls, Zumwalt Meadow and Big Stump Loop)

These three parks have a wide range of trails from short easy walks to multi-day backpacking trips. If you are visiting at different times of the year, pack layers, snacks and a lot of water. The temperatures can change at different heights. As expected in nature, wildlife is active and it is common to see sightings of black bears, deer, marmots and a variety of birds. Please be aware of your surroundings. Never feed the animal and do not leave trash or food waste in the parks.

Entrance Fees are required for most National Parks. Buy an America the Beautiful Pass. It lets you visit all national parks and federal recreation land for 1 year when you buy it.

All three parks offer dining options as well as markets to purchase snacks and basic meals. Please review the NPS' dining information before your trip to ensure that facilities will be open during your visit. It is also best to pack some supplies with you to ensure you have enough food and water.