Sequoia National Park

While Redwood trees are the tallest trees in the world, Sequoia trees are the largest mass of trees in the world. It is quite hard to comprehend just how large they are until you get up close and personal with them on the Congress Trail.

What to Do

Congress Trail

This is recommended as the #1 thing to do in Sequoia National Park. You can start the hike at the General Sherman Tree, which is THE largest tree in the world measuring at 36 feet in diameter at the base and 274 feet high. It is believed to be 2,300-2,700 years old. It is named the General Sherman Tree because it is believed to be founded by James Wolverton, who served under General Sherman, a union officer, in the Civil War. Take some fun pictures here, then you will proceed on an easy looped 2.9 mile trail. I hiked this in the winter with snowshoes. I do not think snowshoes were necessary for the trail but would recommend microspikes. However snowshoeing is so fun!

Beetle Rock

The most magnificent sunset I’ve ever seen was at Beetle Rock at Sequoia National Park. Apparently most people experience a sunset filled with smog and it is difficult to see. I wonder since I visited in the wintertime, the cold weather potentially helped out brilliantly with the view. If you visit in the summertime, I’d recommend the Sunset Rock trail.

Where to Stay

Wuksachi Lodge

Frequently closed in the wintertime, this lodge provided us with a lovely experience. With it being conveniently located, the inviting lodge-style mealtime, and the service we received, the overall feel of the lodge was exactly what we were looking for. I recommend going into the basement of the lodge to meet the large stuffed animal bear we named “Boozy,” and become friends! See the bottom of this page for our story time with Boozy the Bear.

Where to Eat

The Runway Cafe

On the way to or from Sequoia National Park, to the west is a restaurant called The Runway Cafe. It is an unexpected spot for a glorious brunch on an actual runway! The platters are massive but the flavor is still there; that is key. Be sure that when the waiter/waitress asks if you want salsa to go with your meal, just say YES! I asked for a bunch of to-go salsas since it was that good.

Batter Up Pancakes

In between Sequoia National Park and Yosemite National Park is a place called Batter-Up Pancakes in Fresno, California. It is a locals’ secret spot for an amazing brunch. The orange juice is fresh-squeezed, which means to me that the rest of the meal will be well-thought out as well. Turns out I loved the cinnamon roll pancakes a little too much…