Planning a visit to Sequoia National Park? Understanding the entrance fees and available passes is essential to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here’s a detailed guide to help you plan your trip to this beautiful national park.
Sequoia National Park Entrance Fees
Sequoia National Park charges entrance fees for all visitors entering the park. These fees help support the maintenance of park facilities, trails, and conservation efforts. Below are the current entrance fees for different types of visitors:
This pass covers entry for all occupants of a private, non-commercial vehicle, including cars, SUVs, and RVs. If you’re driving into the park with friends or family, this is the best option.
Duration: Valid for 7 consecutive days
This pass covers entry for a single motorcycle and its passengers. A great option for solo travelers or small groups on bikes.
Duration: Valid for 7 consecutive days
This pass is ideal for those entering the park on foot, by bicycle, or via public transportation. Each person must purchase an individual pass, but children under 16 can enter for free.
Duration: Valid for 7 consecutive days
If you’re part of a guided tour or traveling in a larger commercial vehicle, fees are based on vehicle capacity:
1-6 passengers: $25 plus $15 per person
7-15 passengers: $75 per vehicle
16-25 passengers: $100 per vehicle
26+ passengers: $200 per vehicle
Sequoia & Kings Canyon Annual Pass
Cost: $70
This pass grants unlimited entry to both Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks for one year. It’s an excellent option for frequent visitors or those planning multiple trips throughout the year.
Duration: Valid for 12 months from the date of purchase
America the Beautiful – National Parks & Federal Recreational Lands Pass
Cost: $80
This pass grants access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites, including all national parks, monuments, and wildlife refuges. It covers entry for one vehicle or up to four individuals for walk-in or bike-in parks. It’s a great value if you plan to visit multiple national parks within a year.
Duration: Valid for 12 months from the date of purchase
Senior Passes
If you’re 62 or older, the National Park Service offers special discounted passes for seniors:
- Annual Senior Pass: $20 (Valid for one year, grants the same access as the America the Beautiful Pass)
- Lifetime Senior Pass: $80 (One-time purchase for lifetime access to all national parks and federal recreation sites)
- Buy Here: Senior Pass
Military Pass
This pass offers free entry to Sequoia National Park and all other national parks for U.S. military personnel and their families.
- Cost: Free
- Eligibility: U.S. active duty military members and their dependents
- Duration: Valid for 12 months from the date of purchase
- Buy Here: Military Pass
Access Pass
The Access Pass offers lifetime access to Sequoia National Park and all other federal recreation sites. Proof of disability is required when applying for this pass.
- Cost: Free
- Eligibility: U.S. citizens or permanent residents with a permanent disability.
- Buy Here: Access Pass
Volunteer Pass
This pass grants free access to Sequoia National Park and other federal lands as a reward for dedicated volunteer service.
- Cost: Free
- Eligibility: Volunteers who have completed 250 service hours with federal agencies.
- Buy Here: Volunteer Pass
How to Purchase Passes?
You can purchase entrance passes in several ways:
- At the park entrance: Passes can be purchased at park entrance stations when you arrive.
- Online: Passes are available through the National Park Service website, where you can buy annual and interagency passes before your trip.
- In-person at visitor centers: Certain visitor centers within and near the park offer passes for sale.
Important Notes
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Valid for Both Parks | All passes are valid for both Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. |
Re-entry | Your entrance pass is valid for 7 consecutive days, meaning you can leave and re-enter as many times as you want within this period. |
Fee Waivers | On certain federal holidays, entrance fees may be waived for all visitors. Check the park’s website for specific fee-free dates. |