WINTER IN SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS

Snow Play | Hiking | Scenic Drive | The Nation's Christmas Tree

Winter transforms Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks into a true winter wonderland. Visitors can play, explore, and experience the magic of the parks in a whole new way. Build a snowman beneath the giant sequoias, stroll along a scenic winter hike, or enjoy snowy views from your car. With fewer crowds and endless beauty, winter is one of the best times of year to visit!

SNOW PLAY

Winter in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks transforms the parks into a snowy playground. From sledding and snowshoeing to family-friendly snow activities, there’s plenty to enjoy—explore all winter activities in Sequoia and Kings Canyon.

SLEDDING

Sledding areas include: Wolverton Meadow, Big Stump Picnic Area, and Columbine Picnic Area.

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING

Hiking trails like Panoramic Point and Big Stump become ski trails in the winter, offering a new national park experience for you.

SNOWSHOEING

Rangers offer guided snowshoeing walk and provide snowshoes. Snowshoe rentals are also available at the Grant Grove and Lodgepole visitor centers.

SLEDDING

Sledding areas include: Wolverton Meadow, Big Stump Picnic Area, and Columbine Picnic Area.

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING

Hiking trails like Panoramic Point and Big Stump become ski trails in the winter, offering a new national park experience for you.

SNOWSHOEING

Rangers offer guided snowshoeing walk and provide snowshoes. Snowshoe rentals are also available at the Grant Grove and Lodgepole visitor centers.

HIKING IN THE PARKS

Winter brings snow and stunning views to Sequoia and Kings Canyon. Weather and ice conditions can vary, so check with rangers for trails suitable for winter hiking.

Stroll the Big Trees Trail or Congress Trail to see the parks’ famous giant sequoias dusted in snow. If weather allows, hike Buena Vista Peak for panoramic views of Redwood Canyon, Buck Rock Lookout, and the High Sierra.

Near the Kings Canyon entrance, the Big Stump Trail offers a glimpse of the area’s logging history amid a peaceful winter landscape.

Buena Vista Peak

Big Trees Trail

Big Stump Trail

TAKE A DRIVE

If you are looking for a driving tour through the parks in winter, here are our top 5 things to see in Sequoia National Park in the winter:

The Historic Entrance Sign

Hospital Rock

Beetle Rock

The Giant Forest Museum

The General Sherman Tree

WINTER DRIVING - WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

A drive to the parks in winter may involve icy and snowy conditions. Mountain roads can be hazardous so follow these tips:

Check the parks website for winter drive suggestions.
Know the weather conditions before you go and be prepared. Conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. Check online for current road conditions in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks or call to hear a recorded message: (559) 565-3341, press 1, then 1)
Tire Chains may be required anytime between November and March. Check out these businesses to buy or rent tire chains just outside of the park entrance: Snow Chain Locations near Sequoia National Park (updated 2026)
If you are not comfortable driving in winter, consider taking a tour with Sequoia Sightseeing or Sequoia Guides.

GENERAL GRANT - THE NATION'S CHRISTMAS TREE

No winter trip to Kings Canyon National Park is complete without visiting the Nation’s Christmas Tree: The General Grant Tree. For more than 100 years on the second Sunday in December, park rangers, carolers, and visitors gather for a wreath-laying ceremony honoring the nation’s armed forces. Even if you miss the event, don’t miss seeing this awe-inspiring landmark — the world’s second-largest tree and the only living national shrine.