Are you planning an adventure from Las Vegas to Sequoia National Park? You’re in for a treat! This majestic national park is home to giant sequoias, picturesque landscapes, and serene wilderness. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about making the trip, from the Las Vegas to Sequoia National Park distance, travel tips, ticket prices, and much more.
Overview
Sequoia National Park, created in 1890, is known for its huge sequoia trees, including the famous General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on Earth by size. Along with these giant trees, the park has beautiful mountain views, calm hiking paths, scenic drives, and a wide variety of wildlife.
Las Vegas to Sequoia National Park Distance
One of the most common questions by travelers is about Las Vegas to Sequoia National Park Distance. The drive from Las Vegas, Nevada, to Sequoia National Park, California, covers about 380 to 480 miles, depending on the route you choose and where you plan to arrive inside the park.
Most routes will take around 6 to 8 hours of driving, so it’s possible to complete in one day if you start early. However, it’s a good idea to make it a multi-day trip so you can enjoy the scenic views and outdoor activities along the way.
Popular Routes from Las Vegas to Sequoia National Park
There are multiple ways to travel from Las Vegas to Sequoia National Park, but the two most popular routes are:
1. Via I-15 North and CA-198 West (Shortest Route)
Distance: Approximately 375 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 6 to 7 hours
Route:
- Take I-15 North from Las Vegas.
- Exit onto CA-58 West near Barstow, and then take CA-99 North.
- Head west onto CA-198, which leads to the Ash Mountain Entrance of Sequoia National Park near the town of Three Rivers.
Why Choose This Route:
This is the fastest route and takes you through the most direct path to Sequoia National Park
Key Stops:
- Barstow: A good place for fuel and food breaks, Barstow has attractions like the Route 66 Mother Road Museum.
- Bakersfield: Known for its agriculture and music heritage (Bakersfield Sound in country music), you can visit Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace.
- Three Rivers: The last town before the park entrance, it’s perfect for a quick rest, food, and some local art galleries.
2. Via I-15 North and CA-178 West (Scenic Route)
Distance: Approximately 400 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 7 to 8 hours
Route:
- Drive I-15 North from Las Vegas.
- Exit onto US-95 North toward Indian Springs and Beatty.
- Head west on CA-178, passing through Death Valley National Park and Bakersfield.
- Continue onto CA-65 North, then CA-198 West to the park entrance.
Why Choose This Route:
If you want a scenic drive through Death Valley or Mojave National Preserve, this is a perfect choice. It adds a bit of distance but offers some beautiful landscapes.
3. Via I-15 North, I-40 West, and CA-99 North
Distance: Approximately 410 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 7 to 8 hours
Route:
- Take I-15 North out of Las Vegas and merge onto I-40 West in Barstow.
- Follow I-40 to CA-58 West near Bakersfield.
- Merge onto CA-99 North, then take CA-198 West to the park entrance.
Why Choose This Route:
This route is longer but provides a less mountainous drive, with good road conditions for much of the trip.
Key Stops:
Tehachapi: A convenient location for a pit stop or quick meal.
4. Via I-15 North, CA-41 South, and CA-180 East (Kings Canyon Entrance)
Distance: Approximately 415 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 7.5 to 8.5 hours
Route:
- Follow I-15 North to Barstow.
- Take CA-58 West and continue onto CA-41 South.
- Merge onto CA-180 East, entering through the Kings Canyon National Park entrance.
- Follow park roads to Sequoia National Park, as the two parks are connected.
Why Choose This Route:
This route allows you to enter Sequoia through Kings Canyon National Park, offering the opportunity to explore both parks on the same trip.
5. Via I-15 North and CA-14 North (High Desert Route)
Distance: Approximately 390 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 6.5 to 7.5 hours
Route:
- Head I-15 North toward Barstow.
- Exit onto CA-14 North, then take CA-178 West toward Lake Isabella.
- Continue onto CA-65 North, followed by CA-198 West to Sequoia.
Why Choose This Route:
This route offers some high desert scenery with fewer winding mountain roads compared to other options.
6. Via I-15 North, CA-99 North, and CA-245 (Backcountry Route)
Distance: Approximately 400 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 7 to 8 hours
Route:
- Take I-15 North to CA-99 North.
- Exit at CA-245 North, which leads to the backcountry entrance of Sequoia National Park.
- Follow the signs to CA-198 West to enter the main section of the park.
Why Choose This Route:
This route offers a more secluded drive through lesser-known roads and is great if you want to avoid busier highways.
Comparison of Routes:
| Route | Distance (Approx.) | Time (Approx.) | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-15 & CA-198 | 375 miles | 6-7 hours | Fastest, most direct route |
| I-15 & CA-178 | 400 miles | 7-8 hours | Scenic route via Death Valley |
| I-15, I-40 & CA-99 | 410 miles | 7-8 hours | Less mountainous, good roads |
| I-15, CA-41 & CA-180 | 415 miles | 7.5-8.5 hours | Enter via Kings Canyon |
| I-15 & CA-14 | 390 miles | 6.5-7.5 hours | High desert scenery |
| I-15, CA-99 & CA-245 | 400 miles | 7-8 hours | Secluded, backcountry drive |
Sequoia National Park Ticket Prices and Entry Fees
Sequoia National Park has entrance fees that are required for all visitors. As of 2024, the entrance fees are as follows:
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Private Vehicle | $35.00 |
| Motorcycle | $30.00 |
| Individual (on foot/bicycle) | $20.00 |
| Annual Pass | $70.00 |
| Commercial Sedan (1-6 seats) | $45.00 – $75.00 |
| Commercial Van (7-15 seats) | $75.00 |
| Commercial Mini-bus (16-25 seats) | $100.00 |
| Commercial Motor Coach (26+ seats) | $200.00 |
| Non-commercial Group (16+ persons) | $20.00 per person |
| America the Beautiful Pass | Free – $80.00 |
Best Time to Visit Sequoia National Park
Sequoia National Park stays open all year, but the ideal time to visit depends on the activities you enjoy and the kind of experience you want.
Spring (March-May):
Spring is perfect for seeing wildflowers in bloom and avoiding summer crowds. While some snow might still cover higher areas, most trails and spots will be open.
Summer (June-August):
Summer is the busiest time to visit. Warm weather makes it great for hiking, camping, and exploring. However, popular places like the Giant Forest can be crowded, so plan ahead.
Fall (September-November):
With cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, fall is a wonderful time to explore the park. Most trails will still be open, and the changing leaves add beautiful scenery.
Winter (December-February):
Winter turns Sequoia into a snowy wonderland. Many higher trails are covered in snow, but activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are popular. Keep in mind, some roads may be closed or need snow chains.
Accommodation Options in and Around Sequoia National Park
No matter if you enjoy camping, staying in rustic lodges, or prefer more comfortable hotels, there are many accommodation options to fit every traveler’s needs. When planning your trip from Las Vegas to Sequoia National Park, you’ll find plenty of places to stay that suit your style.
- Lodging Inside the Park: Sequoia National Park has several lodges, like the Wuksachi Lodge, which offers beautiful mountain views and easy access to the park’s main sights. Other popular choices include Cedar Grove Lodge, located between Sequoia and Kings Canyon, and John Muir Lodge.
- Campgrounds: The park features 14 campgrounds. Among the favorites are Lodgepole Campground, which is in a central spot near key attractions, and Dorst Creek Campground. Be sure to book early, especially during the busy summer months.
- Nearby Towns: If you prefer staying outside the park, the town of Three Rivers is right by the Ash Mountain Entrance and has many hotels, motels, and vacation rentals. It’s a great base for exploring Sequoia and the nearby areas.
Things to Do in Sequoia National Park
1. Visit the Giant Forest
Home to the famous General Sherman Tree, the Giant Forest is one of the park’s top attractions. Walk among the towering sequoias, and make sure to explore the Congress Trail, a 2-mile loop that shows off some of the largest trees in the park.
2. Hike to Moro Rock
For stunning views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, take the short but steep hike up Moro Rock Trail. The climb may be tough, but the views at the top are definitely worth it.
3. Explore Crystal Cave
Crystal Cave is a hidden gem, featuring a marble cavern with beautiful rock formations. Guided tours are available, but it’s a good idea to book in advance, especially during busy times.
4. Enjoy the Meadows
Sequoia’s green meadows, like Crescent Meadow and Halstead Meadow, are perfect for quiet walks and watching wildlife. You might spot deer, bears, and other animals that live in the park.
5. Take the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway
If you have extra time, drive along the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway. This route goes through Kings Canyon National Park, offering incredible views of deep canyons, rivers, and tall mountain peaks.
Conclusion
Traveling from Las Vegas to Sequoia National Park is a rewarding experience that offers the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. The Las Vegas to Sequoia National Park distance might feel long, but with good planning, the trip becomes part of the fun. Along the way, you’ll enjoy scenic drives, see towering sequoias, and relax in quiet meadows.
Sequoia National Park is a must-see for anyone who loves nature. Use this guide as your go-to resource, and get ready for an unforgettable trip that will leave you with wonderful memories of one of the world’s most incredible natural wonders.
FAQ’s
Can I visit Sequoia National Park in one day from Las Vegas?
While it’s possible, a one-day trip can be very tiring due to the long drive. An overnight stay is recommended to fully enjoy the park.
How much does it cost to enter Sequoia National Park?
The entry fee is $35 per vehicle for 7 days. You can also get the America the Beautiful Pass for $80 annually.
Can I camp along the route from Las Vegas to Sequoia National Park?
Yes, there are several great camping spots along the way. Red Rock Canyon offers desert camping, Lake Isabella has lakeside sites, and Death Valley provides remote, starlit campgrounds.
What’s the best Instagram-worthy stop on the way to Sequoia National Park?
Badwater Basin in Death Valley provides dramatic and unique photo opportunities with its vast salt flats, while Zabriskie Point offers stunning panoramic views and striking geological formations for fantastic pictures.
