yosemite, sequoia & kings Canyon

Question

trying to put together a trip for 4 to Yosemite, sequoia & kings Canyon national park. Considering flying into Fresno and renting an SUV. Dates will be 7 consecutive days anytime between April 16-26. Not sure which park to visit first since it's Easter that weekend. Also, looking for something that my 2 teen boys would love (12 and 14). Maybe a dune buggy adventure. Last spring break we did Sedona, Grand Canyon, Page, Bryce and Zion. That trip was amazing. Any suggestions welcomed on timing, lodging, logistics, favorite eats and any must see or do. Thank you!

Answer

Planning a 7-day trip to Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon with teens can be both exciting and logistically manageable if you plan the route and lodging carefully. Flying into Fresno and renting an SUV is a great choice, as it gives you flexibility to explore both the Sierra Nevada parks and surrounding areas.

Since your dates are mid to late April, snow may still affect some higher elevation roads and trails in Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon. Be prepared for possible partial closures and check road conditions before driving.

Here’s a suggested itinerary and logistics advice for a 7-day adventure:

Day 1 – Arrival in Fresno: Pick up your SUV. Stay overnight in Fresno or drive partway toward Sequoia National Park. Get groceries and supplies if needed, as options in the parks are limited.
Day 2 – Sequoia National Park: Enter Sequoia via the Ash Mountain entrance. Visit the Giant Forest to see the General Sherman Tree, hike the Congress Trail, and explore Moro Rock for panoramic views. Teens will enjoy the short climb and dramatic scenery. Optionally, drive to Crescent Meadow and take short hikes. Stay overnight in Three Rivers or in the park’s lodge if available.
Day 3 – Kings Canyon National Park: Drive up to Kings Canyon via Highway 180. Stop at Grant Grove to see the General Grant Tree and hike short trails like the Big Trees Trail. If the snow level allows, drive the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway to view Zumwalt Meadow and Roaring River Falls. Overnight in Cedar Grove or return to Three Rivers for lodging.
Day 4 – Travel to Yosemite: Drive north toward Yosemite National Park, entering via the South Entrance near Oakhurst. Stop for scenic views along Highway 41. Check into your lodging near Yosemite Valley or El Portal. Yosemite Valley lodges book quickly, so reserve as early as possible.
Day 5 – Yosemite Valley: Explore iconic spots such as Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, and Half Dome viewpoints. Take easy to moderate hikes suitable for teens: Lower Yosemite Falls, Mirror Lake, and Cook’s Meadow Loop. Teens may enjoy rock climbing viewpoints or ranger-led programs.
Day 6 – Glacier Point & Mariposa Grove: If Glacier Point Road is open (check conditions), drive up for breathtaking views. Explore Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. Take short hikes through the grove. Optionally, rent bikes in Yosemite Valley for more active exploration.
Day 7 – Departure: Exit Yosemite and drive back to Fresno for your flight. Optionally, stop at Oakhurst or other small towns for lunch and snacks.

Activities for teens:

Short hikes to waterfalls, granite domes, and giant sequoia groves.
Ranger-led programs and Junior Ranger activities.
Biking Yosemite Valley loop.
Rock climbing demonstrations or guided climbs (age and skill permitting).
Dune buggy or off-road adventure outside the parks, for example around the California Central Valley or Mojave desert areas if you have extra time.

Lodging tips:

Sequoia/Kings Canyon: Wuksachi Lodge (inside the park) or Three Rivers area hotels.
Yosemite: Yosemite Valley Lodge, Curry Village (tent cabins), or El Portal Lodge for more budget-friendly options.

Favorite eats & snacks:

Pack picnic lunches for hiking days to maximize exploration time.
In Yosemite Valley: The Ahwahnee Dining Room (classic and scenic), Degnan’s Deli for quick bites.
Sequoia/Kings Canyon: Peaks Restaurant at Wuksachi Lodge or small cafés in Three Rivers.

Logistics tips:

Check road conditions and potential snow closures at each park’s website before traveling.
Arrive early at popular trailheads to avoid crowds, especially around Yosemite Falls.
Bring layered clothing for variable April temperatures, especially at higher elevations.
Reserve park lodges well in advance as Easter weekend can be busy.

This itinerary balances active exploration with sightseeing, giving your teens a mix of adventure, iconic scenery, and opportunities for photography. Renting an SUV ensures comfort on longer drives and access to scenic byways in all three parks.

yosemite, sequoia & kings Canyon

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