Winter in Sequoia National Park is truly magical, and you should experience it! 😍 The towering giant sequoia look even more incredible blanketed in snow, and the summer crowds are mostly gone, making it one of the most peaceful times to visit the park.
If you’re visiting Sequoia in winter, it’s important to be prepared. Snow and ice can impact road conditions, tire chains are often required, and some high-elevation roads and trails close for the season. But if you come prepared, winter can be one of the most rewarding times to explore the park.
I love visiting this park during the winter months. After a fresh snowfall, it transforms into a peaceful winter wonderland. You might not think there is much to do in the winter months, but in fact, there are plenty of exciting winter activities in Sequoia National Park! ☃️
From standing beneath the largest tree on Earth to snowshoeing through a giant sequoia grove, enjoying scenic views along Generals Highway, or cross country skiing to a winter hut, there’s no shortage of incredible winter adventures.
Keep reading to discover the best things to do in Sequoia National Park in winter and start planning your snowy adventure! ❄️
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What to Know Before Visiting Sequoia National Park in Winter
Before we get into the best winter activities in Sequoia National Park, let’s quickly go over the entrance fees, weather, road closures, chain requirements, and travel advice for a safe trip.
🎟️ Sequoia’s Entrance Fee
Entrance to Sequoia National Park costs $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. However, if you have the America the Beautiful Annual Pass, your entry is free!
For those who love exploring national parks, investing in the Annual Pass is a smart choice. At just $80, it grants you access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites across the country!
FEE UPDATES! Beginning January 1, 2026, non-U.S. residents (without an annual pass) will pay a $100 per person in addition to the standard entrance fee. The Annual Pass for non-US. residents will cost $250.
🌨️ Sequoia Winter Weather
Winter in Sequoia National Park can be exciting, but it’s important to be prepared for changing conditions! Temperatures can swing 20–30 degrees just by driving up or down the mountain.
While the foothills might feel mild and comfortable, the giant sequoia groves can be freezing and snowy. The Giant Forest area, home to the General Sherman Tree, Moro Rock, Lodgepole, and Wuksachi Lodge, sits between 5,000 and 7,000 feet in elevation, which is why it experiences true winter conditions.
Lower-elevation areas like Potwisha Campground, Buckeye Flat, and Hospital Rock sit around 4,000 feet and generally stay warmer with little to no snow.
From November through March, expect cold temperatures, snow, and icy roads, especially around the Giant Forest and Lodgepole. This area averages 40–45 inches of precipitation each year, mostly in winter, creating the deep snowpack that can stick around well into May.
❄️ Average winter temperatures in the Giant Forest area:
- November: 50°F high / 31°F low (10°C high / -1°C low)
- December: 44°F high / 27°F low (7°C high / -3°C low)
- January: 42°F high / 24°F low (6°C high / -4°C low)
- February: 44°F high / 25°F low (7°C high / -4°C low)
- March: 46°F high / 26°F low (8°C high / -3°C low)
Keep in mind that conditions can change quickly! Clear blue skies can turn into a snowstorm in no time, and chain restrictions are common during winter.
Be sure to check Sequoia’s weather forecast before heading out and carry tire chains with you!
🛣️ Sequoia Winter Road Conditions and Closures
Winter can seriously impact roads in Sequoia National Park, and closures typically happen sometime between November and May (exact dates vary depending on conditions).
Some roads may close temporarily during or after storms, even if they’re normally open in winter.
Winter storms can sometimes force temporary closures of the entire park for visitor safety. This usually happens during and immediately after major snowstorms, when hazards like rockslides, avalanches, fallen trees, and debris on the roads become much more likely.
A temporary closure happened this year! In mid-February, the park closed for about two weeks after a large storm. When we visited a few days after it reopened, the Giant Forest area was still blanketed in snow and incredibly beautiful, but we also noticed fallen rocks along the roadside and downed trees along some trails.
⛔ Seasonal road closures in Sequoia:
- Generals Highway between Sequoia and Kings Canyon
- Moro Rock / Crescent Meadow Road
- Mineral King Road
- Crystal Cave Road
- Road to the main Sherman Tree Trailhead parking area
✅ Always check conditions before heading out! For the most up-to-date road conditions, call (559) 565-3341 (press 1, then 1). And have a backup plan just in case there are unexpected closures.
⛓️ Sequoia Chain Restrictions and Tire Chains
If you’re visiting in winter, plan on needing tire chains. When chain control is in effect, all vehicles must carry chains – even those with AWD/4WD or snow tires.
Chain control levels:
- R1 – Chains or traction devices required, unless you have snow-tread tires on at least two drive wheels.
- R2 – Chains required, unless you have AWD/4WD and snow-tread tires on all four wheels.
- R3 – Chains required on all vehicles, no exceptions.
✅ Pro tip: Purchase or rent chains in advance, make sure they fit the tires on our vehicle, and practice putting them on before your trip.
☃️ Sequoia Winter Travel Tips
- Travel may be slower than usual due to icy or snow-covered roads.
- Bring tire chains, ensure they fit properly, and know how to put them on.
- Dress in layers – temperatures can drop quickly the higher in elevation you go.
- Keep in mind that daylight hours are shorter during winter months.
- Expect traffic congestion and limited parking during winter holidays, including Christmas and New Year’s (late December–early January) and President’s Day weekend (mid-February).
- Keep emergency supplies in your car, such as water, snacks, blankets, a flashlight, and extra warm clothing.
- Fill up your gas tank or charge your electric vehicle before entering Sequoia National Park, as there are no fuel or charging stations inside. Gas stations and EV chargers are available in Three Rivers, just outside the park entrance.
- No lodging is open inside the park this winter, so plan to stay in Three Rivers near the Ash Mountain Entrance for the most convenient access.
- Free winter shuttles operate in the Giant Forest and Lodgepole areas on limited dates (Nov 27–30, Dec 24–Jan 1, Jan 17–18, Feb 14–15 for the 2026 season) from 10:00 am–4:30 pm, so be sure to check schedules and plan your visit accordingly.
Winter Activities in Sequoia National Park (top things to do)
Winter transforms Sequoia National Park into a quiet snowy wonderland. While some roads close due to snow, there are still plenty of incredible things to see and do.
Let’s get into the best things to do in Sequoia National Park in winter! 👇
General Sherman Tree (largest tree on earth)
The General Sherman Tree is by far the most popular attraction in Sequoia National Park! Even during the winter months, this is where you will find the crowds.
This giant sequoia stands over 275 feet tall, measures 36 feet in diameter at the base, and weighs close to 1,400 tons. It’s something you have to see in person to truly understand its insane size!
Estimated to be more than 2,000 years old, it was officially named the largest tree in the world by volume in 1931. Amazingly, it continues to grow, adding enough wood every year to equal a new 60-foot-tall tree.
🥾 Trail Stats:
- Starting Point – General Sherman Accessible Parking Lot
- Length – 0.3 miles roundtrip
- Elevation Gain – 50 feet
- Difficulty – Easy
During winter, the main Sherman Tree parking lot closes due to snow. Visitors must park at the smaller accessible lot along Generals Highway, which normally requires a disability placard but is open to everyone in winter.
Parking is limited, so arriving before 8 AM is a good idea since this is one of the most popular stops in Sequoia National Park.
From the lot, follow the short paved trail to the tree. The path can get icy in winter, so traction devices are recommended.
There’s also a popular photo spot near the base where you may have to wait for a picture. Just be sure to stay behind the fence to help protect the tree’s fragile root system.
If you want to explore more of the grove, continue onto the nearby Congress Trail.
✨ READ THIS: Best Winter Hikes in Sequoia National Park
Congress Trail
The Congress Trail is my favorite trail in the park for seeing giant sequoias! It takes you right through the heart of the Giant Forest and passes many incredible trees.
This hike is amazing in any season, but in my opinion, winter is the best time to experience it. Seeing these massive sequoias towering above a blanket of snow is just unreal.
If there’s only a little snow on the trail, you can usually hike in regular boots and maybe even traction devices, but if a recent storm drops lots of fresh snow, it becomes a perfect snowshoe adventure.
🥾 Trail Stats:
- Starting Point – General Sherman Accessible Parking Lot
- Length – 2 miles roundtrip
- Elevation Gain – 350 feet
- Difficulty – Moderately challenging
🌳 Congress Trail Highlights:
- President Tree – The third-largest tree in the world, estimated to be around 3,200 years old.
- Chief Sequoyah – Named for the Cherokee leader who created the Cherokee syllabary.
- The Senate and House Groups – Towering clusters of giant sequoias named in the 1920s.
- McKinley Tree – A massive sequoia standing over 240 feet tall.
- Room Tree – A hollow sequoia with a natural opening created by fire damage.
Parking for this trail is the same parking lot used for the General Sherman Tree. Because most visitors stop at Sherman and leave, the Congress Trail is often much quieter and more peaceful.
From the accessible parking area along Generals Highway, follow the short paved trail to the General Sherman Tree, then continue a little farther to connect with the Congress Trail.
The first section of the trail winds through a mix of towering sequoias and mossy pine forest. You’ll cross a small creek early on, and after the junction with the Alta Trail, the forest opens up to reveal even more giant sequoias.
If you’re looking to experience the giant sequoias without the crowds, this is easily one of the best trails in Sequoia National Park in winter.
✨ READ THIS: General Sherman Tree and Congress Trail Hiking Guide
Big Trees Trail
This family-friendly paved loop circles Round Meadow and offers a relaxing walk among giant sequoias. Educational displays along the route explain the giant sequoia ecosystem.
🥾 Trail Stats:
- Starting Point – Giant Forest Museum
- Length – 1.2 miles roundtrip
- Elevation Gain – 105 feet
- Difficulty – Easy
🌳 Big Trees Trail Highlights:
- Giant Forest Museum – A small museum with exhibits about giant sequoias and the ecosystem that allows them to thrive.
- Sentinel Tree – One of the largest sequoias along the trail, standing impressively near the museum.
- Clara Barton Tree – A massive giant sequoia named after the founder of the American Red Cross.
- Round Meadow – A quiet meadow surrounded by old and young sequoias where you may spot wildlife.
Although the trail is completely paved and easy, be aware that snow and ice can be present along the trail. Bring traction devices for your boots so you don’t slip.
Parking is available either at the small accessible trailhead lot (open to everyone in winter) or the larger lot across from the Giant Forest Museum.
Scenic Generals Highway (easy stops and viewpoints)
One of the best ways to experience the park in winter is simply driving the Generals Highway. Don’t forget to check road conditions before heading out and have tire chains with you!
This winding mountain road climbs dramatically from the foothills at the Ash Mountain Entrance (1,700 feet in elevation) up into the Giant Forest (6,500 feet in elevation).
The drive includes steep elevation gain, tight curves, and multiple hairpin turns, so take it slow and use pullouts to let others pass (if needed).
Along the way you’ll find several easy stops and viewpoints. These stops provide incredible views of Kaweah Canyon and the surrounding mountains.
🛣️ Generals Highway Stops:
- The historic Sequoia National Park Sign – Installed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1935, this classic wooden sign is a popular photo spot. It was meant to honor Sequoyah, the Cherokee scholar who created the Cherokee alphabet, but the figure depicted reflects a stereotyped Great Plains Native American rather than Sequoyah or any California tribe.
- Foothills Visitor Center – A great first stop for maps, exhibits about the foothills ecosystem, restrooms, and current park information.
- Tunnel Rock – A massive granite boulder that forms a natural tunnel the road passes directly through.
- Hospital Rock – A historic site featuring Native American pictographs and grinding mortars from a former village area.
- Amphitheater Point – A scenic pullout at a sharp hairpin turn with great views of Moro Rock and the surrounding canyon.
- Eleven Range Overlook – A viewpoint offering sweeping vistas over the Kaweah Canyon toward the San Joaquin Valley.
- Four Guardsmen – A small grove of four giant sequoias standing close together right beside the road.
Crescent Meadow Road and Crescent Meadow Loop
Visiting Crescent Meadow in winter feels like a completely different experience. The crowds disappear and the entire area turns into a quiet winter wonderland surrounded by giant sequoias.
During winter, Moro Rock / Crescent Meadow Road closes to vehicles and becomes a perfect route for snowshoers and cross country skiers. If snow coverage is still light, you can also hike along the road to reach the meadow.
🥾 Trail Stats:
- Starting Point – Giant Forest Museum
- Length – 6.5 to 7 miles roundtrip
- Elevation Gain – 1,000 feet
- Difficulty – Moderately challenging
🌳 Crescent Meadow Road and Loop Trail Highlights:
- Booker T. Washington Tree – One of the largest giant sequoias in the park, named after the influential African American educator and author.
- Auto Log – A massive fallen sequoia that visitors once drove cars over in the early days of the park.
- Buttress Tree – An enormous sequoia known for its wide, buttressed base that flares dramatically at ground level.
- Parker Group – A beautiful cluster of giant sequoias growing close together along the trail, named for the eight members of Captain James Parker’s family. Captain Parker served as Acting Superintendent of Sequoia National Park from 1893–1894.
- Tunnel Log – A fallen giant sequoia with a tunnel carved through it that vehicles can still drive through.
- Crescent Meadow – A stunning alpine meadow often called the “Gem of the Sierra,” surrounded by towering sequoias.
- Tharp’s Log – A hollow sequoia log that early settler Hale Tharp once used as a summer cabin.
- Chimney Tree – A burned-out sequoia stump that remains standing like a tall chimney after a historic fire.
To reach Crescent Meadow, start at the Giant Forest Museum and follow the closed road about 2.6 miles. Take time to stop at all the incredible attractions along the way. The most famous stops are the Parker Group and Tunnel Log.
Once you reach the Crescent Meadow Trailhead, briefly follow the High Sierra Trail before connecting with the Crescent Meadow Loop Trail. The loop around the meadow is about 1.3 miles, or 1.8 miles if you include the short detour to Tharp’s Log.
If you have the time, I definitely recommend visiting Tharp’s Log! It is a hollowed-out sequoia that was once used as a cabin. It’s a unique thing to see, and I personally think it’s worth the extra distance.
This route is primarily used by cross country skiers in winter, but snowshoers and hikers are welcome too. Just be careful not to walk or snowshoe directly on the ski tracks since that can damage them and create hazards for skiers.
✨ READ THIS: Crescent Meadow Loop Hiking Guide
Wolverton Snow Play Area
Located at the end of Wolverton Road in the Giant Forest (about two miles north of the General Sherman Tree), the Wolverton Snow Play Area is one of the best places in the park for classic winter fun. Visitors come here to sled, build snowmen, have snowball fights, snowshoe, or cross country ski.
The area sits at 7,250 feet in elevation and has a large parking lot with a few picnic tables. Just remember to store food properly in the provided bear-proof containers or in your vehicle.
After winter storms, it can take several hours for plows to clear Wolverton Road since crews must clear the main road first, so check road conditions before heading out.
When Wuksachi Lodge is open, snowshoes and trekking poles are often available to rent, and some snow gear may be available for purchase.
⚠️ Safety tip: Snow can sometimes cover hidden hazards like rocks, roots, or stumps on the sledding hill. Too little or too much snow can make sledding unsafe, so always use caution.
Cross Country Skiing on Sequoia Winter Trails
If there’s enough snow, cross country skiing is one of the most fun ways to explore Sequoia National Park in winter. Gliding through snow-covered giant sequoia forests or deep into the backcountry is a pretty unforgettable experience!
You can purchase a cross country ski trail map online or at visitor centers like the Foothills Visitor Center or Giant Forest Museum. While on the trails, look for yellow triangle markers with symbols that help guide you along specific routes.
Just be sure to avoid skiing in residential areas, plowed roads, or other restricted areas as posted. Also, know your limits! Some trails are easy and great for beginners whereas others are meant for experienced winter adventurers only.
With the right conditions, cross country skiing is an incredible way to experience the snowy beauty of Sequoia in winter!
⛷️ Sequoia’s Cross Country Ski Trails:
- Alta Winter Trail (12.5 miles, hard)
- Bear Hill Winter Trail (2 miles, easy)
- Clover Creek Winter Trail (4.2 miles, moderate)
- Crescent Meadow Road Winter Trail (6.8 miles, easy)
- Crescent Winter Trail (5 miles, moderate)
- Old Lodgepole Road Winter Trail (5 miles, moderate)
- Panther Winter Trail (7 miles, moderate to hard)
- Pear Lake Winter Trail (12 miles, hard)
- Sunset Rock Winter Trail (2 miles, easy to moderate)
- Trail of the Sequoias Winter Trail (6 miles, medium to hard)
- Wolverton Winter Trail (1.4 miles, moderate)
Foothills Visitor Center and Giant Forest Museum
Make a stop at the Foothills Visitor Center to explore fascinating exhibits about California’s oak chaparral ecology. Did you know that only the Central American rainforest has a richer variety of plants and animals than California’s oak chaparral?
Open year-round (except during weather or emergency closures), the visitor center is just one mile east of the Ash Mountain Entrance along Generals Highway. You’ll find maps, books, gifts, water, and restrooms. Exhibits cover both foothills ecology and the region’s human history.
If you’re visiting during the wilderness permit non-quota season, self-issue permits are available outside the Wilderness Office behind the center.
The Giant Forest Museum is located in a historic market building at 6,500 feet in the Giant Forest, about 16 miles north of the Ash Mountain Entrance on Generals Highway.
The museum is the perfect place to learn about the giant sequoias and their ecosystem. Pick up maps, books, gifts, water, and find restrooms, then explore hands-on exhibits that showcase the unique ecology of these towering trees.
It’s open year-round (except during weather or emergency closures), and self-issue wilderness permits are available in the museum plaza during the non-quota season. It’s a great stop before heading out into the forest to see the giants up close!
Ranger Guided Snowshoe Walks
If you’re visiting Sequoia in winter, don’t miss free ranger-led snowshoe walks, usually starting in mid-January and running as long as snow conditions allow. If snow is scarce, rangers may offer a guided hike instead. Either way, it’s a fun way to explore the park!
No experience is needed, and snowshoes are provided. You’ll just need to bring warm, layered clothing, waterproof boots, gloves, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, water, and snacks. Walks are moderately strenuous, about 1–2 miles and 1.5 hours long.
Children 10 and older can participate, as snowshoes are sized for older kids and adults. Traction devices or cleats are recommended if conditions are icy.
It’s an easy, fun way to get out in the snow and experience the park’s winter wonderland! Be sure to check the NPS calendar for this season’s ranger-led walks.
Hospital Rock Picnic Area and Exhibits
Make a stop at the Hospital Rock Picnic Area to learn about the Native American tribes who lived here and their deep connection to the land. This historic site was once home to a Native American village.
Today, you can see grinding mortars and pictographs that offer a glimpse into their daily life. While snow occasionally falls at this lower elevation, it rarely sticks for more than a few days, making it an easy stop even in winter.
It’s a great spot to stretch your legs, enjoy a picnic, and learn about Sequoia’s fascinating history!
Lodgepole Market
Stop by Lodgepole Market for a quick bite to eat. They offer prepackaged sandwiches, salads, and snacks made with fresh, local, and sustainable ingredients.
This is a great spot to fuel up before hitting the trails or refuel after a full day of exploring Sequoia.
I remember the last time my husband and I stopped by the market, during the summer, they offered free wifi! This is great if you need to download offline maps or check the weather forecast.
Pear Lake Winter Hut
For those seeking a true backcountry adventure, the historic Pear Lake Winter Hut offers a rugged retreat deep in the Sierra Nevada wilderness.
Open to the public throughout the winter months (or when conditions allow), this cabin is accessible via a challenging 6-mile ski or snowshoe route from Wolverton Snow Play Area at 7,200 feet, climbing to 9,200 feet near Pear Lake.
Along the way, you’ll traverse stunning snow-covered landscapes that make the effort well worth it.
🛖 The hut sleeps ten and comes equipped with essentials including:
- Ten bunks with mattresses (bring your own bedding)
- Wood pellet stove with fuel
- Composting toilet
- Coleman cookstoves (fuel not included)
- Cooking utensils, plates, mugs, and bowls
- Caretaker on site
🎒 Guests are responsible for bringing:
- Sleeping bag rated for freezing temperatures
- Propane fuel and matches
- Water purification supplies
- Food
- Clothing and personal gear
This trip is designed for experienced backcountry skiers and snowshoers, as winter conditions can be unpredictable and potentially hazardous. Make sure to you do your research and come fully prepared!
✨ READ THIS: Lakes Trail to Pear Lake Hiking Guide
❄️ Sequoia Winter Guides
Places to Stay in Sequoia National Park in Winter
You might be wondering where you can stay in Sequoia National Park during the winter. There aren’t many options inside the park this time of year. In fact, only one lodge typically stays open through the winter months but occasionally it closes temporarily if winter storms become too severe.
If you enjoy camping, there’s also one campground that remains open in winter – Potwisha Campground. Just keep in mind that reservations are required and can be made online at Recreation.gov.
If you’re not able to stay inside the park, don’t worry! The nearby town of Three Rivers has plenty of great lodging options just outside the park entrance.
Here are the top 5 places to stay in and near Sequoia National Park during winter. ⬇️
Wuksachi Lodge
Wuksachi Lodge is Sequoia National Park’s signature hotel, located within close proximity of the park’s best attractions, including General Sherman Tree, Giant Forest trails, Wolverton Snow Play Area, and Lodgepole Market.
Open year-round, it’s an ideal base for exploring the park without spending extra time on the road. Rooms book up months in advance, so plan ahead! Speaking of rooms, the lodge offers 102 spacious guest rooms.
🏨 Wuksachi Lodge room options:
- Standard Rooms – Classic mountain lodge rooms, with one king bed or two queen beds (queen rooms include a pull-out sofa bed). Sleeps up to 4.
- Deluxe Rooms – Larger rooms perfect for families or groups, with king or two queen beds. King rooms have a sofa bed; two-queen rooms include a table and chairs. Sleeps up to 5 (with rollaway bed or crib).
- Superior Rooms – Corner rooms with the most space, ideal for families. King or two queen beds, plus a sofa bed, seating alcove, coffee table, and sliding door for privacy. Sleeps up to 6 (with rollaway bed or crib).
Wuksachi Lodge features and amenities include The Peaks Restaurant, meeting and event space, gift shop, free parking, Wifi, and pet-friendly rooms.
🤩 Book your stay at Wuksachi Lodge!
Lazy J Ranch Motel
Escape to a laid‑back, scenic stay in historic Three Rivers, California. Set against the rolling Sierra foothills, Lazy J Ranch Motel has been family‑owned and operated since 1975.
It’s only 15 minutes from the Ash Mountain Entrance to Sequoia National Park and is a great base for exploring world‑famous giant sequoias, hiking trails, and outdoor adventures.
All accommodations are one‑story with private entrances. The lodge is also pet-friendly!
🏨 Lazy J Ranch Motel room options:
- King Rooms – Sleeps 2 with a comfortable king bed.
- Two‑Bed Rooms – Sleeps up to 4, ideal for families or friend groups.
- Cottages – Sleeps up to 6 and includes a kitchen, perfect for longer stays and bigger groups.
The Lazy J Ranch Motel includes free WiFi, free on‑site parking, river access, guest laundry facilities, and rooms come with mini-fridge, microwave, Keurig coffee maker, and TV with basic cable.
🤩 Book your stay at Lazy J Ranch Motel!
Buckeye Tree Lodge
Less than 1/2 mile from the Ash Mountain Entrance to Sequoia National Park, Buckeye Tree Lodge is a stylish, updated lodge set alongside the Kaweah River and next to the historic Pumpkin Hollow Bridge.
As the last hotel you pass before entering the park, the Buckeye has been a beloved part of Three Rivers and the Sequoia landscape since the late 1940s.
The lodge offers 12 rooms and 10 cabins, most with breathtaking river views and the soothing sound of rushing water to welcome you.
Lodge Rooms – The lodge has two buildings with odd-numbered rooms are pet-friendly and on the ground floor with patios and the even-numbered rooms are on the second floor with balconies.
Lodge room amenities include complimentary Wifi, TV, microwave, mini-fridge, AC/heating units, and direct river access.
Cabins and Cottages – Located across the street from the lodge, are 10 unique cabins and cottages, each individually styled with hand-crafted wood trim and cabinetry.
Every cabin offers private outdoor spaces with barbecue grills, fireplaces in select units for cozy winter nights, and options ranging from intimate queen beds to multi-bedroom cabins for up to 8 guests
The Buckeye River House (Presidential Suite) – For large families or groups who want space and luxury, the River House is a perfect option!
The River House is a 3-bedroom, 2-bath, multi-level cabin. It has private balconies with river views, full open-layout kitchen and outdoor grill, laundry setup and wood-burning stove.
🤩 Book your stay at the Buckeye Tree Lodge!
AutoCamp Sequoia
Located in Three Rivers about 15 minutes from the Ash Mountain Entrance of Sequoia National Park, AutoCamp Sequoia offers a unique glamping experience.
Set along the beautiful Kaweah River, this upscale outdoor resort blends the feeling of camping with boutique hotel comforts. It’s a great option for travelers who want to enjoy nature without giving up modern amenities.
AutoCamp Sequoia has plenty of amenities to make your stay relaxing and fun, including seasonal outdoor pool, complimentary bike rentals, outdoor grilling areas, fireplace lounge, general store, The Kitchen (on-site restaurant), Wifi, and lawn games and board games available at the Clubhouse.
The resort also hosts a variety of activities depending on the season and schedule, including live music, yoga and Pilates classes, stargazing programs, and community events and gatherings.
🏕️ AutoCamp Sequoia lodging options:
- Airstream Suites – Climate-controlled custom Airstream with spa-inspired bathrooms and private outdoor space.
- Premium Airstream Suites – Custom Airstream with a bit more privacy.
- Vista Airstream Suites – Located along the Kaweah River for scenic views
- Explorer Suites – Custom Airstream that includes a complimentary premium AllTrails subscription to help you discover local hikes.
- BaseCamp Suites – A combination of a modern Airstream suite plus a canvas tent, giving you the best of glamping and traditional camping
- Premium BaseCamp Suites – Airstream plus a tent setup with extra privacy.
- Vista BaseCamp Suites – A more secluded location with river views.
- Premium Cabin – Tiny home-style accommodations with added privacy.
- Accessible Suite – Fully accessible tiny home-style suite with spa-inspired bathroom and private outdoor space.
- Double Queen Bunk Rooms – Traditional hotel-style rooms designed for families or larger groups.
- King Bunk Room – Boutique hotel-style room with extra sleeping space.
- Accessible King Room – Fully accessible boutique hotel-style room located centrally on the property.
🤩 Book your stay at AutoCamp Sequoia!
Comfort Inn & Suites Sequoia Kings Canyon
Located in the small foothills town of Three Rivers, Comfort Inn & Suites Sequoia Kings Canyon offers a comfortable and convenient place to stay just 15 minutes from the Ash Mountain Entrance of Sequoia National Park.
After a full day of exploring the parks, you can unwind in spacious rooms and suites designed for comfort and relaxation.
🏨 Comfort Inn & Suites room options:
- Standard Rooms – Comfortable hotel rooms with cozy beds and modern amenities.
- Suites – Great for families or longer stays, offering extra room and seating areas.
Rooms feature flat-screen TVs, free Wifi, premium bedding, and comfortable seating areas, making it easy to relax after a long day outdoors.
Amenities include continental breakfast, pet-friendly rooms, EV charging stations, outdoor pool and hot tub, sauna, fitness center, laundry facilities, gift shop, and a picnic area.
🤩 Book your stay at Comfort Inn & Suites Sequoia Kings Canyon!
Sequoia Winter Packing List
🎒 Backpack – A pack around 22–30 liters works well to carry layers, snacks, water, and gear. I’ve been using the Cotopaxi Luzon Del Dia 24L Pack and my husband uses the REI Co-op Trail 25L Pack.
🥾 Winter Boots – Waterproof, insulated boots are a must!
🧊 Microspikes – Bring a pair of microspikes if you’re visiting in the winter and you’re planning to hike along icy trails. They will give you good traction to avoid slipping! I use Black Diamond Access Spike Traction Device.
❄️ Snowshoes – Best used when hiking on deep, soft, or loose snow, usually anything over six inches, to prevent sinking, also known as postholing.
☃️ Gaiters – Keep snow out of your boots when snowshoeing or hiking in deep snow.
🥢 Trekking Poles – Essential for stability on snow and slippery trails. I use REI Co-op Trailmade Trekking Poles and love them!
🧥 Warm Layers (top) – Pack a moisture-wicking base layer, a fleece mid-layer, an insulated jacket, and an outer shell to protect you from the elements, such as rain, snow, and wind. Check out my favorite tops 👇
- Base layer: REI Co-op Midweight Long-Sleeve Base Layer
- Fleece mid layer: Cotopaxi Teca Fleece Full-Zip Jacket
- Down mid layer: Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket
- Outer shell: Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket
👖 Warm Layers (bottom) – Pack a breathable base layer, fleece-lined mid-layer, and soft-shell pants. A pair of hard-shell pants might be overkill but depends on the conditions and the winter adventure you plan to go on. My favorite fleece bottoms are the Baleaf Fleece Jogger Pants and the Baleaf Fleece Leggings.
🤠 Warm Hat/Beanie – Keeps your head and ears warm on cold winter hikes. My favorite beanie is the Cotopaxi Tozo Beanie!
🧦 Socks – Moisture-wicking, quick-drying socks are the way to go. My favorite pair of hiking socks are Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks. I’m obsessed with them!
🥶 Emergency Shelter – Pack an emergency bivy sack or space blanket for shelter in case of sudden weather changes.
🗺️ Navigation – Carry a physical topographic map, compass, a satellite messenger (or personal locator beacon), and download offline maps to help you stay on course, find your way in unfamiliar terrain, and call for help if needed.
🔦 Headlamp/Flashlight – A reliable light source with extra batteries, in case you end up hiking in the dark or need it for emergency situations.
🩹 First-Aid Kit – A basic first-aid kit with items like bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any personal medications you may need.
💧 Water – Water bottles to carry sufficient water to stay hydrated, along with a filtration system or purification tablets if you plan to refill from natural sources.
🍕 Food – Energy-rich snacks or meals to keep your energy levels up during the hike.
😎 Sun Protection – Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sunhat to protect yourself from harmful UV rays, even when it’s cloudy. Also, polarized sunglasses are important when it’s bright outside and the ground is covered in snow/ice.
🔥 Fire – A lighter, matches, or fire starter to help you build a fire for warmth or signaling in case of emergency. Along with matches, I also carry a multi-tool carabiner that has a fire starter, utility blade, screwdriver, and bottle opener.
🗡️ Multi-Tool and Repair Kit – A versatile tool/knife and repair kit to handle any task, from preparing food to making repairs.
🚙 Winter Car Kit – Pack a basic winter car kit in case you get stranded in a snowstorm, including blankets or sleeping bags, extra warm layers, ice scraper, small shovel, extra water, snacks, flashlights, portable power bank with chargers, and signaling devices. And don’t forget tire chains!
Conclusion
There are so many things to do in Sequoia National Park in winter that it’s hard to choose just one! If I had to pick a favorite, it would be exploring the beautiful Giant Forest and snowshoeing along the trails beneath giant sequoias blanketed in snow.
Just make sure you come prepared for winter conditions. Snow and ice can impact road travel, tire chains are often required, and some high-elevation roads and trails close for the season.
But if you plan ahead and pack the right gear, winter can easily become one of the most rewarding times to visit the park.
Hopefully this guide helped you discover some of the best things to do in Sequoia National Park in winter and gave you inspiration for planning your own snowy adventure.
If you’ve visited the park during the winter season, drop a comment below and share your favorite winter experiences!
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