Yosemite, Kings Canyon, Sequoia itinerary

Question

Hello! I am traveling north from Joshua Tree and Death Valley to visit Kings Canyon, Sequoia and Yosemite in mid Apr.

I have 4 full days. How do I best use/divide that time? Any suggestions on must do's sights and hikes? Also, would love lodging suggestions. We are 55-62 active,love to hike, photography and night sky. Planning to return to Palm Springs for departure.

Thanks in advance,

Answer

With four full days to explore Kings Canyon, Sequoia, and Yosemite in mid-April, you can enjoy a mix of hiking, photography, and star-gazing. Since you're coming from Joshua Tree and Death Valley and returning there, careful planning will help maximize your time.

Day 1 – Sequoia National Park:

Drive from Palm Springs area early morning to Sequoia (approx. 5–6 hours).
Hike the Congress Trail to see General Sherman Tree and nearby giant sequoias (easy to moderate, ~2–3 hours).
Optional short hikes: Big Trees Trail or Moro Rock for panoramic views.
Lodging: Wuksachi Lodge inside the park is convenient; alternatively, Three Rivers has inns and B&Bs.
Evening: Night sky photography is excellent here due to low light pollution.

Day 2 – Kings Canyon National Park:

Drive into Kings Canyon (about 1–1.5 hours from Sequoia Lodge area).
Must-see sights: Roaring River Falls, Zumwalt Meadow, and the General Grant Tree.
Hiking options: Zumwalt Meadow Trail (easy, ~1.5–2 hours) or Rae Lakes Loop sections for more active hiking if trails are open in April.
Lodging: Stay again in Sequoia/Kings Canyon area or nearby Cedar Grove Lodge if open.

Day 3 – Travel to Yosemite National Park:

Drive from Kings Canyon/Sequoia to Yosemite (approx. 5–6 hours depending on route; check Tioga Pass status—it may be closed in April due to snow).
Check into Yosemite Valley lodging or nearby towns like Mariposa or El Portal.
Afternoon: Explore Yosemite Valley viewpoints – Tunnel View, Bridalveil Fall, and short walks to Lower Yosemite Fall.
Evening: Sunset photography at Glacier Point or Valley floor if roads are open.

Day 4 – Yosemite National Park:

Hiking: Choose from easy to moderate options such as Mirror Lake Trail or Mist Trail to Vernal Fall (depending on snow/ice conditions in April).
Photography: Sunrise at Valley View or Cook’s Meadow is excellent for iconic Yosemite shots.
Optional scenic drives: Wawona Road to see Tunnel View from another angle or drive to Mariposa Grove to see giant sequoias.
Depart back to Palm Springs in the late afternoon/evening (approx. 7–8 hours drive).

Additional Tips:

Check for road closures, especially Tioga Pass and Glacier Point Road—they may be closed in April.
Book lodging as early as possible, both inside parks and in nearby towns.
Carry layers: mornings/evenings are cold in April, especially at higher elevations.
Photography gear: tripod for night sky shots and waterfalls, wide-angle lens for iconic vistas.

This itinerary balances driving with active exploration, offers stunning photo opportunities, and allows time for relaxation while ensuring you see the highlights of each park.

Yosemite, Kings Canyon, Sequoia itinerary

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