Planning a visit to both Sequoia and Yosemite National Parks? While they appear close on the map, the mountainous terrain makes the trip longer than expected. Learn about the routes, seasonal conditions, and travel tips to get the most out of your journey between these two iconic California destinations.
Understanding the Distance
Actual Mileage Between Parks
The distance between Sequoia National Park and Yosemite National Park varies depending on the specific starting and ending points within each park, as well as the chosen route. On average, the driving distance from the Ash Mountain Entrance of Sequoia National Park (near the town of Three Rivers) to the South Entrance of Yosemite National Park (near Oakhurst) is approximately 140 to 160 miles (225 to 257 kilometers). However, since both parks are situated in mountainous terrain with limited direct routes, the actual travel distance can be longer depending on traffic, detours, and seasonal road closures.
Typical Driving Time
Under normal driving conditions, the journey between the two parks takes approximately 3.5 to 5 hours by car. The most commonly used route involves taking Highway 198 out of Sequoia National Park, connecting to Highway 180 near Fresno, then continuing on Highway 41 north to Yosemite. The total time can vary significantly based on road conditions, construction, or seasonal weather such as snow or fog, especially in winter months.
Seasonal Route Variations
Seasonal changes can drastically affect the accessibility between the parks. During winter and early spring, some roads—particularly those at higher elevations—may be closed due to snow. For instance, the Generals Highway connecting Sequoia and Kings Canyon can experience temporary closures, and Tioga Pass (Highway 120), which offers a scenic eastern approach to Yosemite, is typically closed from late fall through late spring. It's crucial to check with the National Park Service for current road conditions when planning your route.
Most Common and Scenic Routes
The most direct and widely used route is:
- From Sequoia’s Ash Mountain Entrance, take CA-198 west toward Visalia
- Merge onto CA-99 North at Visalia
- Exit at CA-41 North in Fresno
- Continue on CA-41 to Yosemite’s South Entrance
This route not only provides the most efficient travel path but also allows for a possible stop in Fresno for dining, fuel, or lodging. For those with more time, alternative scenic detours through Kings Canyon or along the Sierra Vista Scenic Byway can enrich the travel experience, though they may add time and distance.
Park Entrance Locations
Understanding where each park's entrances are located can help with route planning. Sequoia National Park’s main entrances are the Ash Mountain Entrance (south) and the Big Stump Entrance (north, shared with Kings Canyon). Yosemite features several entrances: South Entrance (via CA-41), Big Oak Flat Entrance (via CA-120), and Arch Rock Entrance (via CA-140). Most travelers moving between Sequoia and Yosemite will use the South Entrance to Yosemite due to its direct connection with CA-41.
Travel Tips for the Drive
- Fuel up in major towns like Visalia, Fresno, or Oakhurst, as gas stations are limited near the parks.
- Start early in the day to avoid afternoon traffic and to allow time for stops or delays.
- Cell service is limited in mountainous areas, so download offline maps and keep a physical map on hand.
- Watch for wildlife on roads, especially during early morning and dusk.
By understanding the geography, route options, and seasonal considerations between Sequoia and Yosemite, travelers can better prepare for a scenic and memorable journey through California's Sierra Nevada region.
Transportation Options and Routes
Driving Routes Between Sequoia and Yosemite
The most common and flexible way to travel between Sequoia National Park and Yosemite National Park is by car. While the parks are relatively close in straight-line distance, the mountainous terrain and lack of a direct highway make the drive longer than expected.
There are two main routes travelers typically use:
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Via CA-41 and CA-180 through Fresno: This is the fastest and most popular route. From Sequoia National Park, take CA-198 west to Visalia, then head north on CA-99 to Fresno. From there, take CA-41 north directly into Yosemite National Park. This route covers approximately 215 miles and takes around 4.5 to 5.5 hours depending on traffic and seasonal road conditions.
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Via CA-180 through Kings Canyon and CA-49: For those wanting a more scenic but longer journey, this route adds travel through Kings Canyon and uses the historic CA-49 through Gold Country. This can take over 6 hours and is best for travelers not in a rush and looking to explore more along the way.
Note that there is no direct road that cuts through the Sierra Nevada mountains between the two parks due to rugged terrain and protected wilderness areas.
Seasonal Road Considerations
Some roads, especially higher elevation roads like the Tioga Pass (CA-120 east in Yosemite), are closed in winter due to snow, typically from November through late May or early June. While Tioga Pass is not used to connect Sequoia and Yosemite directly, closures can affect travel within Yosemite or for those planning to continue their journey east.
Always check the current road conditions on the National Park Service websites or California’s Department of Transportation (Caltrans) before departure.
Public Transportation Options
There is no direct public transit between Sequoia and Yosemite National Parks. However, several regional services can help travelers without a car:
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YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System): Offers bus services into Yosemite from several gateway towns including Merced, Fresno, and Mammoth Lakes. Fresno is the closest common point to both parks and can be accessed from Sequoia via shuttle or rideshare.
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Sequoia Shuttle: Operates seasonally (typically late May through early September) and connects Visalia to Sequoia National Park. Shuttle service is not available between Sequoia and Yosemite.
To use public transport between the parks, a traveler would typically need to:
- Take the Sequoia Shuttle or drive/rideshare to Visalia or Fresno.
- From Fresno, board the YARTS system to Yosemite.
This route can be time-consuming and may require overnight stays or flexible scheduling due to limited service frequency.
Tour Operator Services
Some tour companies offer multi-park packages that include transportation between national parks. These are often part of guided tours and may include lodging and meals. While more expensive than independent travel, these options provide a hassle-free experience and are ideal for international travelers or those not wanting to drive.
Look for tour operators based in San Francisco, Los Angeles, or Fresno that offer itineraries to both Yosemite and Sequoia/Kings Canyon National Parks.
Biking or Hiking Between Parks
Due to the distance, elevation change, and lack of direct trails, biking or hiking between Sequoia and Yosemite is not practical for most travelers. The route would require navigating busy highways or remote forest service roads and is not recommended unless part of a long-distance expedition with thorough planning and support.
Gas Stations and Amenities
Fueling up before entering either park is essential, as gas stations are not available within most park areas. Larger towns along the routes—such as Fresno, Visalia, Oakhurst, and Mariposa—offer full services including gas, food, and accommodations. Always check your fuel level before entering the mountainous sections of the journey.
Best Time to Travel
Late spring through early fall (May to October) is the best time to travel between the two parks. Roads are more likely to be fully open, and weather conditions are favorable. During winter and early spring, snow and ice can cause road closures and delays, especially at higher elevations. Always plan for possible delays and check weather forecasts ahead of time.
Planning Your Journey
Understanding the Distance and Drive Time
Sequoia National Park and Yosemite National Park are two of California’s most iconic natural destinations, but they are not immediately adjacent to each other. The driving distance between the two parks is approximately 140 to 170 miles, depending on your chosen route and your starting and ending points within each park. On average, the trip takes about 4 to 5 hours by car under normal conditions.
The most direct route typically involves taking Highway 198 or 180 from Sequoia National Park to connect with CA-41 North toward Yosemite. However, some routes may pass through the Sierra National Forest or use CA-99 and CA-41 for a faster, albeit less scenic, drive. Always check for seasonal road closures, especially in winter and early spring when some mountain passes may be inaccessible due to snow.
Choosing the Right Transportation Option
The most convenient and flexible way to travel between Sequoia and Yosemite is by private vehicle. This allows you to travel at your own pace, make scenic stops along the way, and detour through Kings Canyon or Sequoia National Forest if desired.
Public transportation options are limited and typically require multiple transfers. While there is no direct shuttle or train service between the parks, you can combine regional bus services like the YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System) serving Yosemite and local bus lines connecting to Fresno or Visalia. From there, local transit can connect you to Sequoia. This option is best for travelers with more time and a desire to travel sustainably, though it requires careful planning.
Alternatively, guided tours or private shuttles can be arranged through tour operators for a more structured and stress-free experience. These services often include narration, stops at key viewpoints, and park entry fees.
Best Time to Travel Between Parks
Timing your journey between Sequoia and Yosemite is crucial for both safety and enjoyment. The best travel window is typically from late spring through early fall (May to October), when most park roads are open and weather conditions are favorable.
During winter and early spring, snow can close high-elevation roads like the Generals Highway and Tioga Pass (the latter within Yosemite), which can significantly alter your route. Always check the National Park Service websites for current conditions, road closures, and weather advisories before setting out.
Strategic Stops and Scenic Detours
If you have extra time, consider making strategic stops between the parks to break up the drive and explore additional natural wonders. Kings Canyon National Park is directly adjacent to Sequoia and offers dramatic canyon views, waterfalls, and alpine hiking opportunities. Other scenic detours include the Sierra Vista Scenic Byway or a brief stop in Fresno for refueling and supplies.
Park Entrance Logistics
Each park has its own entrance stations, and they may not be in close proximity to each other. Sequoia National Park is commonly accessed via the Ash Mountain Entrance near Three Rivers, while Yosemite’s southern entrance is near the town of Oakhurst along CA-41. Plan your entry and exit points based on your accommodations and areas of interest within each park.
Holding an America the Beautiful National Parks Pass can streamline your entry process and save money if you’re visiting multiple federal lands. Single-park entry fees can be paid at the gates or online in advance.
Travel Essentials and Resources
When planning your journey, make sure to pack essentials such as plenty of water, snacks, a full tank of gas, a physical map (as GPS signals may be unreliable), and layers of clothing for changing weather conditions. Emergency services are limited in remote areas, so it’s recommended to carry a basic first-aid kit and inform someone of your travel plans.
Useful resources include:
- National Park Service websites for Sequoia & Kings Canyon and Yosemite
- Caltrans QuickMap (for road conditions)
- Local visitor centers and ranger stations
- Mobile apps like AllTrails or Gaia GPS (download maps offline)
Proper planning ensures a smooth and enjoyable transition between these two majestic parks, allowing you to make the most of your California wilderness adventure.
Lodging in the Sequoia and Kings Canyon Area
When planning your journey from Sequoia National Park to Yosemite, securing the right accommodations can greatly enhance your experience. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks offer a range of lodging options, both inside the parks and in nearby gateway towns.
In-Park Lodging
Within Sequoia and Kings Canyon, visitors can choose from several lodges managed by authorized park concessionaires. Popular options include:
- Wuksachi Lodge: Located in the heart of Sequoia National Park, this rustic yet modern lodge offers year-round access and close proximity to major attractions like the Giant Forest and General Sherman Tree.
- John Muir Lodge: Situated in Grant Grove Village in Kings Canyon, this lodge offers comfortable accommodations near the famous General Grant Tree and scenic overlooks.
- Cedar Grove Lodge: Open seasonally (typically May to October), this lodge is located deeper in Kings Canyon and is ideal for visitors looking to explore the canyon floor and nearby trails.
Due to limited availability, it is highly recommended to book these lodges several months in advance, especially for peak travel seasons between late spring and early fall.
Camping Facilities
Camping is a popular and affordable way to stay close to nature. Sequoia and Kings Canyon offer 14 campgrounds in total, some of which are open year-round. Notable campgrounds include:
- Lodgepole Campground: Centrally located in Sequoia National Park and a short drive from the Giant Forest.
- Dorst Creek Campground: Ideal for larger RVs and group camping.
- Grant Grove Campgrounds: Offers access to Kings Canyon’s iconic groves and is open seasonally.
Reservations are strongly encouraged and can be made via Recreation.gov. Some first-come, first-served options are available in early or late shoulder seasons.
Nearby Towns and Accommodations
Outside of the parks, several nearby communities provide additional lodging options. These towns offer a mix of hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals:
- Three Rivers: Located just outside the Ash Mountain entrance to Sequoia, this is one of the most convenient base towns for park visitors. It offers a variety of accommodations from budget motels to charming inns.
- Fresno: A larger city about 1.5–2 hours from Kings Canyon, Fresno offers a wide range of hotels and serves as a strategic stopover when transitioning between Sequoia and Yosemite.
- Visalia: Slightly west of the parks, Visalia offers more budget-friendly lodging and easy access to Highway 198.
These towns can be ideal for those seeking more dining options, shopping, or a brief rest point between park visits.
Booking Recommendations
Given the popularity of both Sequoia and Yosemite National Parks, early booking is essential. Lodging inside the parks often fills up six months in advance, especially during summer and holiday weekends. Here are some tips for securing accommodations:
- Book through official park websites or authorized concessionaires to avoid scams or third-party markups.
- Consider shoulder seasons like late spring (May–June) or early fall (September–October) for better availability and fewer crowds.
- Plan for flexibility by checking cancellation policies and monitoring for last-minute openings due to cancellations.
If you're planning to drive from Sequoia to Yosemite (about 140–170 miles depending on route), staying overnight in a midpoint town like Fresno can help break up the trip and provide time to explore other regional attractions.
Travel Tips and Recommendations
Suggested Itineraries
When planning a trip between Sequoia and Yosemite National Parks, it's best to allocate at least three to five days to fully experience both destinations. A popular route begins in Sequoia National Park, includes a stop in Kings Canyon, and then heads north to Yosemite via Fresno and Highway 41. This route provides a natural flow through the Sierra Nevada and allows travelers to gradually ascend into Yosemite’s high country.
For a more relaxed pace, consider spending:
- 2 days in Sequoia National Park exploring the Giant Forest and Moro Rock,
- 1 day in Kings Canyon for scenic drives and waterfalls,
- 2–3 days in Yosemite to enjoy Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, and Tuolumne Meadows (seasonal access).
What to Pack
Weather in the Sierra Nevada can vary widely by season and elevation. Essentials to pack include:
- Layered clothing: temperatures can shift dramatically between day and night.
- Sturdy hiking shoes or boots: key for exploring trails in both parks.
- Reusable water bottles or hydration packs: water stations are limited in some areas.
- Sun protection: sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are vital at high elevations.
- Navigation tools: physical maps or an offline GPS app, as cell service is limited.
For campers, additional gear such as bear-proof food containers (required in some areas), sleeping bags rated for cool nights, and camp cookware are necessary.
Gas Stations and Amenities
Between Sequoia and Yosemite, services can be sparse. Fill up your gas tank before leaving the park areas. The most reliable places to refuel and get supplies are in:
- Three Rivers (near Sequoia’s south entrance),
- Fresno or Oakhurst (along Highway 41 en route to Yosemite),
- Clovis, which is a larger city with full amenities.
Within the parks, gas is not available, so plan accordingly.
Emergency Services
Both Sequoia and Yosemite have ranger stations with basic emergency response capabilities, but they are often far from trailheads or remote roads. In case of emergencies:
- Dial 911 where service is available.
- Use park radio call boxes if you're in a zone with no cell coverage.
- Inform someone outside the parks of your travel itinerary and expected return.
Carry a basic first aid kit and know the location of the nearest visitor center or ranger station—they can assist with minor injuries, lost persons, and wildlife encounters.
General Travel Advice
- Start early: Roads between Sequoia and Yosemite are winding and slow-going; leaving early in the day helps avoid traffic and allows more time for stops.
- Check road conditions: Especially in winter and spring, some routes (like Tioga Road in Yosemite) may be closed due to snow. Visit the National Park Service (NPS) websites for up-to-date alerts.
- Respect wildlife: Both parks are home to bears, mountain lions, and deer. Use food lockers, never feed animals, and maintain safe distances.
- Leave no trace: Follow park guidelines to preserve the natural beauty of these protected areas.
By keeping these recommendations in mind, travelers can enjoy a safe, scenic, and unforgettable journey between two of California’s most treasured national parks.
Traveling between Sequoia and Yosemite is more than just a drive—it's part of the adventure. With 140–170 miles of California’s finest mountain landscapes in between, planning your route carefully ensures a safe and scenic experience. Be mindful of seasonal changes, check live conditions before departure, and prepare for limited cell coverage. Most of all, take your time and enjoy the breathtaking Sierra Nevada journey.