Kings Canyon & Sequoia NP

We spent a week in Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks. They sit side by side. Kings Canyon allowed us to experience both the canyon and view it from the surrounding mountains. Always on the lookout for rattlesnakes and black bears as we had constant warnings from fellow hikers. Thankfully, we were too noisy for the snakes.

Visiting 4 national parks on our 50th anniversary is somewhat fitting. Our “honeymoon” was at Huston Woods State Park. Over the years we would have a “second honeymoon” every five years. It has given us so many memories and stories to cherish. For our 10th “second honeymoon” we are exploring 4 national parks in California, hiking and marveling at nature together. OK a little different woods in Kings Canyon/Sequoia National Park than Huston Woods but still the woods. Soon on to Yosemite and Pinnacles National Parks.

Sequoia National park starts at 7000 ft above sea level and just keeps going. The largest groves of these endangered giants are here and 10% were wiped out a few years ago in a fire. These are the oldest trees on earth and largest by volume (Redwoods are taller). It is pretty dry here but the trees like it as do the many marmots we saw, cute little clowns. The hikes seem to be all uphill but the views are spectacular.

Wonderful time among the ancient giant sequoia trees tucked in the Sierra Nevada mountains. We may hike these trails slower than in our younger days, but it gives us more time to enjoy and savor the beauty.

If you have time, please enjoy the video summaries.