California is what cross-country skiing dreams are made of. Trekking through the grandeur of Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon should be right at the top of your bucket list if you’re an avid outdoor adventurer. With its towering trees and breathtaking landscape, there isn’t anything in the world quite like it. Here’s how to enjoy a cross-country skiing adventure in Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon.
The over 600-square-mile Sequoia National Park sits directly adjacent to the sprawling Kings Canyon National Park. Situated in the Sierra Nevada mountains, this place is among the most beautiful to cross-country ski. Have you ever skied through magnificent sequoia groves? It’s truly a sight to see. Rentals can be found at the nearby Wuksachi Lodge.
Wuksachi Lodge is the premier hotel and resort in the Sequoia National Park. The hotel includes a full-service restaurant, stunning views, and convenient access to nearby cross-country and snowshoe trails. Wireless internet is limited, who needs that when you should be spending your time outdoors!
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Grant Grove Market is where you’ll want to stop for supplies, including cross-country ski and snowshoe rentals. You can also buy snacks and camping gear, along with beer, tire chains, and you can even use the post office located inside the shop. Conveniently located near the John Muir Lodge and Kings Canyon Big Stump entrance, you can stock up on everything you need for your adventure.
You’ll want to stop at one of the visitor’s centers inside the park for maps as well as information about the region’s rich history and diverse ecosystem. Learn about the historic sequoia trees and the museum that once functioned as the region’s first store. During the winter, hours are limited to weekends and holidays.
Be sure to take time to visit General Sherman, the most gigantic tree in the Giant Sequoia Tree forest and the biggest tree on earth. Thousands of years old and nearly 300 feet-tall, General Sherman is an impressive sight not to be missed.
There are several gift shops in the area where you can not only stock up on supplies but also bring home something from your adventures. In addition to the usual t-shirts and keychains, you can find Native American works as well as saplings of giant sequoias so that you can start your own forest.
There is a lot to see in Northern California and if you can experience some of the majesty in a car, take the opportunity. It might not be feasible during the winter—so be sure to have snow tires or chains, but some of the highways in the area offer stunning views close to popular trails.
So that you don’t miss any of the highlights, consider one of the full day or half day sightseeing tours offered by local tourism company, Sequoia Sightseeing Tours. Departing from Wuksachi Lodge, the tours ensure you don’t miss out on any of the breathtaking sights, including General Sherman, Moro Rock, and others, and also give a backstory about the region.
Ranger-led programs can be a great way to experience snowshoeing. Snowshoes are provided and walks are around a mile long. Snowshoeing is as easy as walking and you can also find walks provided by naturalists from the Sequoia Parks Conservancy. There are also evening programs and other ways to experience the majesty of the trees.
Wolverton Meadow is a popular snow play are in Sequoia National Park. In addition to trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, you can also enjoy sledding. Pick up snowshoes for the kids at the Wuksachi Lodge for even more fun.
Grant Grove Restaurant is a spacious new eco-friendly restaurant. Featuring dishes made with locally-grown ingredients, you can find everything from hearty breakfasts to small snacks to burgers and beer.
