Visit Sequoia NP in addition to Yosemite?

Question

I just started planning a trip for my family of 5 (kids 10, 6, and 4) to SF, Carmel, Yosemite in July. The only reservations we have so far are 4 nights at Tenaya Lodge near Yosemite. I'm really excited for the kids to see sequoias and I know we'll see some there. We are trying to decide if we should also go to Sequoia NP since the trees will be a highlight for us and we're not sure when/if we'll be back to the area for a while. We have the time to visit both, but want it to be "worth it" if we're going to do that extra driving with kids. Are the trees in Sequoia much more impressive than in Mariposa Grove?

Answer

Both Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks are fantastic for seeing giant sequoias, but there are some key differences that may help you decide whether adding Sequoia NP is worth the extra driving with young kids.

Yosemite – Mariposa Grove:

Located near the south entrance of Yosemite, Mariposa Grove has about 500 mature giant sequoias, including some very famous ones like Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree.
The grove has a mix of walking trails, including stroller-friendly options, although some trails can be steep or uneven.
It's very accessible from Yosemite Valley, so you can combine it with other park highlights without long drives.

Sequoia National Park:

Home to more than 2,000 mature giant sequoias, including the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree in the world by volume.
The scale of trees and density in some areas, such as Giant Forest, is more dramatic than Mariposa Grove, offering a “wow” factor that many visitors find unforgettable.
Requires significant additional driving from Yosemite (roughly 4–5 hours one way from Yosemite Valley), which can be challenging with young children.
There are easy, short walks suitable for kids around the General Sherman Tree and Big Trees Trail, so you don’t need strenuous hiking to enjoy the sights.

Considerations for your family:

If this is your only trip to the Sierra Nevada region and seeing the absolute largest sequoias is a priority, Sequoia NP is worth the extra effort.
If your main goal is to enjoy giant trees as part of a broader Yosemite experience, Mariposa Grove is already impressive and much easier logistically.
With young kids, the extra driving and timing may reduce enjoyment; some families prefer to stay within Yosemite and explore its other highlights like Yosemite Valley, waterfalls, and meadows.

Suggested approach:

Focus on Mariposa Grove and Yosemite’s other attractions for a balanced, less stressful itinerary with young children.
If you have an extra day or are willing to do a long drive and overnight near Sequoia NP, then add Sequoia for the “largest tree in the world” experience.

In summary, Mariposa Grove is already spectacular and sufficient for most visitors, especially with kids, while Sequoia NP offers even bigger trees and a denser forest experience but requires more time and driving commitment.

Visit Sequoia NP in addition to Yosemite?

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