getting from Kingman AZ to Sequoia NP

Question

We are a couple in our 70s living in the Eastern USA. We plan a trip into Phoenix the end of September. We will stay 2 nights in Phoenix, 2 in Sedona and 2 in Flagstaff. We have been in each of these towns before.

Then we plan to drive to Kingman AZ from Flagstaff on the original Rt. 66(or as much of it as we can) - the real purpose of the trip.

Then from Kingman to Sequoia NP, then to Kings Canyon NP, then to Pinnacles NP, then to Channel Island NP. We will fly home out of San Diego.

I would welcome comments on any or all parts of the trip but especially on the stretch from Kingman to Sequoia. One way says to take CA 58 and I 15. The second way says to take I 40 and CA 58.

We plan on spending multiple weeks on our trip,

Answer

Your road trip from Kingman, AZ to Sequoia National Park is a long but scenic stretch, and there are a few route options to consider. Both routes you mentioned—via CA-58/I-15 and via I-40/CA-58—have their merits depending on whether you prefer desert landscapes, shorter driving time, or more scenic stops along the way.

Route Options:

Route 1: Kingman → I-40 West → Barstow → CA-58 West → Sequoia NP
- This route follows I-40 west from Kingman toward Barstow, then transitions onto CA-58 west toward Bakersfield before heading north to Sequoia NP.
- Advantages: Mostly freeway driving with well-maintained roads; fewer steep mountain passes until you approach Sequoia.
- Considerations: Slightly longer in distance (~460–480 miles) but allows easy stops in towns like Barstow, Mojave, or Tehachapi for meals and overnight if needed.
- Scenery: Mostly desert and high desert landscapes until you reach the Tehachapi Mountains and then the Sierra Nevada foothills.
Route 2: Kingman → CA-58 West → I-15 North → Sequoia NP
- This route takes CA-58 west directly from Kingman, then merges onto I-15 north briefly before connecting to the roads leading to Sequoia NP.
- Advantages: Can be slightly faster depending on traffic, especially around Barstow and Bakersfield; fewer miles on I-40 desert stretches.
- Considerations: CA-58 has winding mountain sections in the Tehachapi area; if you prefer a relaxed drive with fewer curves, this might require careful timing.
- Scenery: Desert landscapes transitioning into high desert and mountain foothills; offers a slightly more varied drive than staying on I-40 the whole way west.

Practical Tips for the Kingman → Sequoia leg:

Plan for at least 8–9 hours of driving if done in one day; consider splitting into an overnight stop in Barstow, Tehachapi, or Bakersfield for comfort and to avoid fatigue.
Check road conditions on CA-58 and the Sierra Nevada approaches; some mountain passes may have construction or traffic delays.
Fuel up in larger towns, as some stretches of CA-58 and connecting highways have limited services.
Bring water, snacks, and perhaps a small cooler for the desert portion, especially if driving through hotter areas in late September.
If you’re interested in scenic stops, consider Mojave National Preserve along I-40 or Red Rock Canyon State Park along CA-58.

General Advice:

Since you’re seniors and prefer a relaxed pace, planning one overnight stop en route is advisable. Bakersfield is a convenient choice with multiple hotels and restaurants.
The roads approaching Sequoia NP from the south (via Highway 198) are mountainous with switchbacks; ensure your vehicle is ready for higher elevations.
Carry a printed or offline map; some areas along CA-58 have limited cell service.

Overall, both routes are viable. If you prefer a slightly more scenic and varied drive, CA-58 west from Kingman through the Tehachapi area is attractive. If you want a smoother freeway drive with more predictable stops, I-40 west to Barstow and then CA-58 is preferable. Given your multiple-week itinerary, taking a more relaxed approach with an overnight stop is recommended for comfort and safety.

getting from Kingman AZ to Sequoia NP

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