When Is The Best Time To Visit Sequoia National Park?

If you are planning a trip to Sequoia National Park and trying to decide when to go, this guide is for you.

I’m James and I’m a national park expert. In this guide, I’ll share when I think the best to go to Sequoia National Park is.

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While this is my choice for the best time to go to Sequoia National Park, the park is great throughout the year.  I have provided a detailed breakdown by season and every month so you can easily see what to expect and then make your own choice.  

Best Time For Visiting Sequoia National Park In a Nutshell

If you want to know when’s a good time to visit Sequoia National Park, then in my opinion the best choices for hiking and exploring are the months of May or September, followed by April or October. Temperatures are pleasant then, yet the park is free from the crowds that descend in June, July and August. 

If you’d prefer a winter adventure, Sequoia National Park in the winter brings weather that’s mild at lower elevations and cold in the highlands. Snowfall in Sequoia National Park tends to be at higher levels, so you can expect a thick layer in the mountains between November and May. So for snow sports, December to February are the best months. 

When to visit Sequoia National Park (for different interests)

The best temperature in Sequoia National Park

The warmest and most pleasant temperatures in Sequoia National Park occur in June, July and August. However this is the busiest season. April and May or September and October are cooler, but quieter. From November through March is the season for snow sports.  

The best time to see wildlife

You might spot wildlife during any season at Sequoia National Park. For the best chance, stay as still as possible and keep watch at dawn and dusk, when creatures tend to be on the move. 

The best time to avoid the crowds

Spring and fall are the most peaceful times at Sequoia National Park. The summer season is busier, while winter attracts crowds looking for snow sports.  

The best time to travel in summer

Early June and late August are the best times to head to Sequoia National Park in summer, as fewer school kids will be on holidays then. 

The best time to travel on a budget

The off-seasons of spring and fall tend to be cheaper than summer or winter in Sequoia National Park. 

The best time to have a winter adventure in Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is transformed into a winter wonderland between November and March each year. The mountains are most snowy during January and February. 

The worst time to visit Sequoia National Park

The worst time to head to Sequoia National Park for exploring is winter, as access is very restricted. For crowds, summer is the worst time to visit.

NOTE: Check my detailed breakdown of what to expect every month in the year for much more detailed information.

Travel Insurance for Sequoia National Park  

No matter when is the best time to see Sequoia National Park, you should definitely get travel insurance.  This can protect you not only against medical and emergency repatriation, but can also cover things like trip cancellation, loss and/ or theft of property, etc.

A great insurance option is Travelex.  It has coverage for all you’ll need. You can compare Travel Insurance plans here or get a quote right now:

Enjoy Sequoia National Park!

You might also like:

• Visiting Sequoia National Park: Month by Month Breakdown of What to Expect
• Sequoia National Park Guide
• The Complete Guide To Hiking The Congress Trail, Sequoia National Park
• What is The Closest Airport To Sequoia National Park?
• Best Airbnb Sequoia National Park
• How To Get To Sequoia National Park

What do you think is the best time of year to visit Sequoia National Park?  Join my private Facebook group National Parks Collectors and comment and let me know (you can also pick up extra planning tips, share your photos and stories with other national park lovers and more). 

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About the Author

James Ian is a national park, camping and hiking expert.

He has dedicated his life to travel, visiting more than 80 countries, all 7 continents and most of the national parks in the United States. With over 35 years experience in the travel industry, James has worked on cruise ships, at resorts and hotels, and as a travel planner who’s helped hundreds of people plan successful trips to US national parks. 

Based on his experience visiting our national parks multiple times, in-depth research and expertise as a travel planner, James has published detailed itineraries for most of the major national parks in the US. These itineraries, as well as in-depth park guides, comprehensive camping and hiking gear reviews and buying guides, and helpful packing lists and gift guides will help you have your own incredible trip to US national parks without stress and hassle.

As a national park expert, James has contributed to many publications, including USA Today, Time Business News, Savoteur, Best Trip, and Wired.

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