Sequoia, Kings Canyon, Yosemite, Pinnacles trip early June ‘

Question

I’m looking to spend about a week exploring the parks with very easy hikes. I think I’ve found them but would be curious about someone’s itinerary, and need recommendations for lodging for the trip. Just need clean, non-camping options that are closest to (or in) each park. Thanks!

Answer

Planning a week-long trip to Sequoia, Kings Canyon, Yosemite, and Pinnacles with easy hikes is a wonderful way to experience California’s diverse landscapes. Here’s a suggested itinerary and lodging recommendations for early June:

Day 1: Arrival and Sequoia National Park

Arrive in the area and check into a nearby lodge. Spend the afternoon on easy trails such as:

Moro Rock (short climb with panoramic views)
Big Trees Trail (easy, flat loop among giant sequoias)
General Sherman Tree (paved path)

Lodging options:

Wuksachi Lodge – inside Sequoia NP, convenient for easy trail access
Lodgepole Hotel – near Lodgepole Visitor Center
Comfort Inn & Suites in Three Rivers – outside the park, clean and comfortable

Day 2: Kings Canyon National Park

Drive along Kings Canyon Scenic Byway. Enjoy easy hikes and viewpoints:

Roaring River Falls (short paved path)
Zumwalt Meadow Trail (1.5 miles, flat)
General Grant Tree Trail (easy loop)

Lodging options:

John Muir Lodge – inside the park at Grant Grove Village
Grant Grove Cabins – rustic yet comfortable

Day 3-4: Yosemite National Park

Drive to Yosemite Valley (approx. 4-5 hours from Sequoia/Kings Canyon). Focus on easy, iconic hikes:

Lower Yosemite Falls Trail (easy loop)
Cook’s Meadow Loop (paved, flat, great views of Half Dome and El Capitan)
Mirror Lake Trail (easy, family-friendly)

Lodging options:

Yosemite Valley Lodge – closest to Yosemite Falls
Tenaya Lodge at Fish Camp – just outside south entrance
Rush Creek Lodge – near Big Oak Flat entrance, good amenities

Day 5: Scenic Drive and Short Hikes

Consider Glacier Point Road (if open) for spectacular views without long hikes. Short easy walks near viewpoints.

Day 6: Pinnacles National Park

Drive to Pinnacles NP (approx. 5-6 hours from Yosemite). Focus on easy hikes:

Balconies Cave and Rock Formations (easy to moderate, can skip cave if not suitable)
Bear Gulch Reservoir Loop (flat and family-friendly)

Lodging options:

Pinnacles Campground Cabins – simple, inside the park (non-camping alternatives are limited)
Nearby towns: Soledad or Hollister offer hotels with basic amenities

Day 7: Departure / Nearby Exploration

Depending on your route back, consider:

Monterey or Carmel stop for a coastal drive
Relaxing morning walk at Pinnacles or nearby trails

Additional Tips:

Book lodges well in advance; June is peak season for these parks.
Bring layers and comfortable walking shoes for varying weather.
Start hikes early to avoid crowds and midday heat.
Check road conditions: some scenic drives (Glacier Point, Tioga Pass) may not yet be open in early June.
National Park passes are recommended if visiting multiple parks; they can save on entrance fees.

This itinerary balances easy hiking with scenic drives and ensures clean, convenient lodging options, keeping the trip relaxed yet memorable.