Sequoia visit

Question

Is it too cold to tour the sequoia trees the first week in April?

Answer

The first week of April is still very much “winter” at Sequoia and Kings Canyon’s giant sequoia groves, but it is absolutely possible—and often wonderful—to visit as long as you arrive prepared. Temperatures are cold, snow is common at higher elevations, and winter conditions may affect access to certain roads. However, the sequoia areas such as the Giant Forest remain open year-round.

Typical early April weather in the sequoia groves (elevations 6,000–7,000 ft) includes daytime highs around the 40s–50s°F and nighttime lows around the 20s–30s°F. Snow may still be on the ground in shaded areas, and storms can still occur. Despite this, walking among the giant trees is very doable with proper clothing and traction, and many visitors enjoy the peaceful atmosphere that comes before the busy summer season.

The biggest factor is not the cold itself, but road conditions. The Generals Highway is open year-round unless a storm temporarily closes it for plowing. The Giant Forest Museum, General Sherman Tree, and popular trails are usually accessible, but some secondary roads and higher-elevation routes remain closed until late spring.

Expect Winter Conditions: Bring warm layers, gloves, hats, and waterproof shoes or boots. Trails can be icy in the morning.
Carry Snow Chains: Even if you have AWD/4WD, the park often requires chains in April during or after storms. Rental cars do not exempt you from this rule.
Trail Conditions Vary: Major sequoia trails are packed snow but walkable. Microspikes or crampons are optional but helpful if icy.
Fewer Crowds: April is quiet and beautiful—great photography conditions and a serene atmosphere in the groves.

If you’re worried about comfort, remember that most of the giant sequoia hikes (including General Sherman, Congress Trail, and Big Trees Trail) are relatively short and close to heated facilities and parking areas, making it easy to manage cold weather.

Below are the experiences you can expect in early April:

General Sherman Tree: Open and accessible, but the downhill walk may be icy. Very manageable with winter shoes.
Big Trees Trail: Often snow-covered but flat. Beautiful winter scenery around Round Meadow.
Crescent Meadow, Moro Rock Road: That road usually remains closed until late spring. You can still hike or snowshoe in from the Giant Forest area if you want extra adventure.
Kings Canyon (Grant Grove): Similar conditions—Grant Tree Trail is open year-round.

Overall, the first week of April is not “too cold,” but it is winter. If you’re prepared for chilly weather and potential snow, visiting the sequoias at this time can be magical. You’ll experience quiet trails, gorgeous snowy scenery around the trees, and easy access to major highlights. Just be ready for winter gear, drive carefully, and check road conditions before arrival.

If you prefer dry trails, warm temperatures, and full road access, late May to September is ideal. But if you’re comfortable with winter conditions, April is an excellent—often underrated—time for a sequoia visit.

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