I knew these parks were supposed to be beautiful, but I don't think I was prepared for just how HUGE everything feels. 

🏕️ Campground: Lodgepole, Site 74

We honestly loved it. It was in a great central location, and we could hear the water nearby from our campsite. It was so peaceful at night that it made it very easy to forget we were in a campground at all. Great place to watch the stars.

🥾 Hikes:

Heather Lake via the Watchtower Trail

Hanging Rock

Tokopah Falls

General Sherman Tree

Moro Rock at sunset

Mist Falls

Crystal Cave tour 🦇 

🌲 Favorite sights/moments:

Obviously, the giant sequoias were incredible. There’s something surreal about standing next to trees that are so massive and ancient that I half expected a dinosaur to walk out from behind one at any moment. 🤣 The Crystal Cave tour was another highlight; caves are a fascination of mine and our tour guide was hilarious. Sunset from Moro Rock was probably my favorite moment of the whole trip. Absolutely incredible views and a great spot for a beer. And I have to give an honorable mention to the huckleberry ice cream at the Lodgepole Cafe. 🍦 Definitely earned after a day of hiking!

🐻 Wildlife sightings:

We got incredibly lucky and saw a Northern Pacific rattlesnake 🐍 and TWO black bears! 🐻 Seeing the bears in the wild was definitely one of those moments I'll remember for a long time.

Overall, this was such a fantastic trip. Between the massive sequoias, mountain scenery, waterfalls, caves, wildlife, and all the hiking, these parks definitely lived up to the hype. Already thinking about when I can come back to do a backpacking trip! 🌲❤️

Happy to answer any questions if anyone is planning a trip!

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks (#37 & #38)