Sequoia & Kings Canyon
These two adjacent national parks are popular with visitors for the immense size and scale of the landscape which is truly awe inspiring. Visitors also flock to see the worlds largest native sequoia grove with the largest known living tree anywhere in the wrold. Nothing can compare to the sense of awe and wonder that this National Park inspires. Immense mountains, rugged foothills, deep canyons, vast caverns and the world's largest trees.
Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activites all year round. However some trails and campsites remain unplowed in winter and can be treacherous for inexperienced visitors. Before you head off on your camper rental holiday make sure you check the prevailing conditions as conditions can change very quickly.
CAMPING
The parks provide visitors with 14 campgrounds which together provide over 800 established campsites. The fees vary depending on their location and proximity to the major attractions. Visitors are allowed to camp a maximum of 14 days during the period from approximately June to September. A further restriction limits visitors to a maximum of 30 days per year.
Some of the campgrounds do not allow RV rentals and trailers. Other campgrounds do allow RVs, but many place limits on their length. It should also be noted that there are length limits on some of the highways and mountain roads. Make sure you check before you plan your camper rental holiday in the area.
Only two of campgrounds take reservations for summer stays: Lodgepole and Dorst Creek. Reservations may be made up to 6 months in advance of the date you wish to start camping there. It is recommended that rv rental travelers ensure their trip is organised as far in advance to avoid dissapointment at the major attractions.
WALKING
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks offer more than 850 miles of maintained wilderness trails. Over 723,000 of the parks' acres are officially designated as Wilderness. You will find some of campsites are located close enough to the action that you can virtually walk out the front door of your RV hire vehicle and start walking amongst the magical giant sequoia.
Foothills day hikes
Summer is hot and dry time in the Foothills. The rest of the year provides more comfortable weather conditions. Watch out for poison oak and rattlesnakes. In spring time take care around rivers which are high and extremely dangerous.
Giant Forest & Lodgepole day hikes
The Giant Forest/Lodgepole area provides a unique experience with the giant Sequoia trese which dominate the landscape. Stroll through the brisk conifer forests, and sun kissed meadows, and take in the exhilarating vistas. Climb the historic staircase on Moro Rock to see the Great Western Divide.
Grant Grove day hikes
For an easy hike through Sequoias, with solitude as your companion, you cannot go past the trails located around the bustling Grant Grove Village. As you drive in via Route 180 in your camper hire vehicle, you may stop at the villiage to pick up maps and guidebooks at the nearby visitor center. The rangers are normally on hand to provide advice if you should need it.
Cedar Grove (down in the Kings Canyon) day hikes
Looming granite walls, great vistas, quiet rivers, pleasant waterfalls--some of the most level hikes in the parks can be found here as well as some of the most steep, hot, and strenuous. There is something for every hiker in the Kings Canyon. Not available during Winter.
Mineral King day hikes
Cooler temperatures and dramatic mountain scenery tempt day hikers up to Mineral King. Be prepared for steep trails and thinner air. West- and south-facing slopes can still be hot and dry, so bring plenty of water and sunscreen. Consider beginning your hike in in the morning when it is cooler. Not available during Winter.
RIVERS
The rivers in Sequoia and Kings Canyon are all potentially hazardous to human health. Great care should be taken when walking near any of ther rivers in the park. The rivers are at their most dangerous during spring and early summer as the melting snow makes river waters fast flowing, icy cold, and extremely hazardous.
People are surprised to learn that drowning is the primary cause of death in the parks. Victims report that they were not intending to swim, but rather fell in accidentally. It should be assumed that any surfance next a river bed is extremely slippery and if stepped on could cause you to fall. Deceptively strong currents make it almost impossible to stay on your feet meaning, once you have fallen in a river, you may never get back out.
ROCK CLIMBING
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are a fantastic place to go rock climbing. The rock here is strikingly similar to Yosemite in quality. Enjoy an endless variety of climbs from easy to extremely challenging--without the crowds and pressure of more famous climbing areas. Visitors often rave about the following routes : the Obelisk, Grand Sentinel, and Chimney Rock. Allow at least a day's hike to reach the start of these climbing trails.
Without a doubt, one of the best ways to unwind after a long day of rock climbing is to retire to the comfort of a matress, pillow and blanket. You can climb with confidence knowing that the comfort and convenience of your camper usa rental is waiting for you when you return to the campsite.
PICNICKING
The park contains many picnic areas which have been outfitted with a range of facilities for your use and protection. Grill plates, water outlets, and rest rooms can be found in some of the picnic areas. Ensure that you store food properly, that is never leave food items on or around picnic tables that are unattended. Also, remember to put all your trash in the bearproof garbage cans and dumpsters provided. By closing any latches that are present you will ensure the bears cannot prise open the lid. Using the bearbox near your table to store all food when not preparing or eating it will ensure the bears do not wander into your camp while you are still there.
