https://www.nps.gov/seki News releases from Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks. en-us https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/winter-storm-expected-at-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-during-holiday-week.htm Mon, 22 Dec 2025 12:02:00 EST As many families, friends, and solo adventurists often take time to enjoy their national parks over the holiday break, this year it is particularly important to double check the weather forecast and updated road conditions prior to arriving at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.   https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/winter-storm-expected-at-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-during-holiday-week.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/100th-annual-trek-to-the-nation-s-christmas-tree-scheduled-for-december-14th.htm Fri, 05 Dec 2025 04:16:00 EST The 100th Annual Trek to the Nation’s Christmas Tree event is taking place on December 14th at 2 p.m. at the historic General Grant Tree in Grant Grove, Kings Canyon National Park. The official ceremony will begin at 2:30p.m. This cherished tradition celebrates the Nation’s Christmas Tree, the General Grant Tree, which holds a significant place in our nation’s history. December 14th is a free entrance day at Sequoia and Kings Canyon.  https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/100th-annual-trek-to-the-nation-s-christmas-tree-scheduled-for-december-14th.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/thanksgiving-weekend-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-2025.htm Wed, 26 Nov 2025 05:45:00 EST Thanksgiving weekend is typically busy in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, at a time of year when some services and attractions are closed for the winter. Planning will help to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/thanksgiving-weekend-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-2025.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/solicitation-of-a-concession-business-opportunity-to-operate-pack-station-guided-trail-rides-other-services-within-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Wed, 19 Nov 2025 07:06:00 EST Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are seeking proposals to provide pack station, guided trail rides, and other services from Cedar Grove Pack Station and Grant Grove Stables within Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. The new concessioner will provide these services over a 10-year term. The existing contract that has been in place since January 1, 2019, concludes on December 31, 2026. The new contract will provide the same services as those offered under the current contract.  https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/solicitation-of-a-concession-business-opportunity-to-operate-pack-station-guided-trail-rides-other-services-within-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/residential-firewood-permits-available-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Thu, 13 Nov 2025 10:45:00 EST Surplus wood in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks is now available to the public by permit. Residential firewood permits are free and must be obtained before wood can be removed. There is a limit of six cords per family per year. Firewood is available on a first-come first-served basis until the supply is gone. This wood is a result of tree mortality, and were trees deemed to be a potential hazard to visitors or property within the parks.  https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/residential-firewood-permits-available-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/tourism-to-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-contributes-$230-million-to-local-economy.htm Mon, 29 Sep 2025 13:26:00 EST A new National Park Service report shows that a record 2,008,962 visitors to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks in 2024 spent $192.5 million in communities near the park. That spending had a cumulative benefit to the local economy of $230.9 million. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/tourism-to-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-contributes-$230-million-to-local-economy.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/planning-for-a-busy-labor-day-weekend-construction-projects-to-follow-at-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Wed, 27 Aug 2025 20:00:00 EST Labor Day Weekend marks the end of the summer season and is historically a busy time at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. For an enjoyable visit, it is important for visitors to plan ahead and be prepared for congestion in the parks. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/planning-for-a-busy-labor-day-weekend-construction-projects-to-follow-at-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/rangers-remove-illegal-marijuana-cultivation-site-from-sequoia-national-park.htm Thu, 21 Aug 2025 08:17:00 EST National Park Service law enforcement rangers, in cooperation with special agents from the Bureau of Land Management, removed an illegal marijuana cultivation site in Sequoia National Park last week.  https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/rangers-remove-illegal-marijuana-cultivation-site-from-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-wilderness-commercial-use-authorization-application-window-begins-august-1.htm Thu, 31 Jul 2025 11:29:00 EST Beginning Friday, August 1, businesses can apply for a Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) for select activities within designated wilderness areas of the parks, including stock and non-stock services, such as guided hiking, backpacking, fishing, and more. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-wilderness-commercial-use-authorization-application-window-begins-august-1.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/body-of-memorial-day-weekend-drowning-located-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Tue, 29 Jul 2025 05:26:00 EST The Tulare County Sheriff’s Office (TCSO) Swiftwater Dive Rescue Team (SDRT), in coordination with the National Park Service (NPS), located the body of 26-year-old Jomarie Calasanz of La Puente, California on July 24. Tulare County Coroner’s Office confirmed her identity on July 28. She had been missing since May 25.  https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/body-of-memorial-day-weekend-drowning-located-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/missing-hiker-found-deceased-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Mon, 14 Jul 2025 05:07:00 EST A local missing hiker was found deceased below Sawtooth Peak in Sequoia National Park on Sunday, July 13. 36-year-old Drew Hall from Visalia was described as fit and active but was hiking in very rugged terrain. He had separated from his group earlier in the day on Saturday, with plans to meet up later. After not returning within the expected timeframe, family members reported him missing to Sequoia National Park that evening. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/missing-hiker-found-deceased-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/plan-ahead-for-busy-2025-fourth-of-july-weekend.htm Tue, 01 Jul 2025 08:46:00 EST Fourth of July weekend is anticipated to be another busy weekend at the parks. During the recent four-day Memorial Day weekend, we welcomed over 21,000 visitors. Trip planning is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. Below are some considerations to help you prepare for your visit and share space responsibly with fellow park-goers.   https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/plan-ahead-for-busy-2025-fourth-of-july-weekend.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-complete-on-2025-big-stump-east-prescribed-burn.htm Tue, 24 Jun 2025 16:05:00 EST KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 24, 2025 – As of this afternoon, ignitions are complete on the 2025 Big Stump East Prescribed Burn. In all, approximately 126-acres were completed in the area of the entrance of Kings Canyon National Park. Completing this prescribed burn increases the historic Grant Grove’s chance of being defendable during an unwanted wildfire as was demonstrated during both the 2015 Rough Fire and the 2021 KNP Complex Fire. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-complete-on-2025-big-stump-east-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-started-on-2025-big-stump-east-prescribed-burn-in-kings-canyon-national-park.htm Mon, 23 Jun 2025 06:04:00 EST KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 23, 2025 – Following a successful test burn and with concurrence from fire management staff and parks’ leadership, the 2025 Big Stump East Prescribed Burn has started. Ignitions are planned to continue each day through June 24, 2025. The General Grant Tree remains available to visit as normal. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-started-on-2025-big-stump-east-prescribed-burn-in-kings-canyon-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-seek-public-input-on-lodgepole-housing-rehabilitation-and-replacement-project.htm Tue, 17 Jun 2025 09:35:00 EST The National Park Service (NPS) is seeking public input from June 17 to July 16 on a proposal to rehabilitate and replace employee housing and related infrastructure in the Lodgepole Housing District serving Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-seek-public-input-on-lodgepole-housing-rehabilitation-and-replacement-project.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/grant-grove-prescribed-burning-begins-june-23.htm Fri, 13 Jun 2025 09:30:00 EST National Park Service fire management staff plan to begin prescribed burning ignitions in the Grant Grove area on June 23. The plan includes hand and aerial ignitions of 349 acres over six days at two locations – east of Highway 180, across from the Big Stump parking lot, and west of the General Grant Tree.   https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/grant-grove-prescribed-burning-begins-june-23.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/stage-1-fire-restrictions-set-to-begin-on-june-11.htm Tue, 10 Jun 2025 11:07:00 EST Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks will enter stage 1 fire restrictions, which prohibit wood and charcoal fires including wood burning stoves, at 6 a.m. on June 11.   https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/stage-1-fire-restrictions-set-to-begin-on-june-11.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/search-for-woman-in-sequoia-national-park-transitions-to-limited-continuous-mode-as-river-conditions-remain-too-dangerous-to-enter.htm Thu, 05 Jun 2025 09:14:00 EST Search efforts for 26-year-old Jomarie Calasanz of Los Angeles have transitioned to a limited continuous mode, meaning fewer resources are assigned to the search at this time. Public information is posted in the area and rescue staff will continue to monitor the river. When river conditions improve, possibly in the coming weeks, the team will reevaluate next steps. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/search-for-woman-in-sequoia-national-park-transitions-to-limited-continuous-mode-as-river-conditions-remain-too-dangerous-to-enter.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-complete-on-2025-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn.htm Mon, 02 Jun 2025 10:01:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 3, 2025 – As of this afternoon, ignitions are complete on the 2025 Ash Mountain Prescribed Burn in Sequoia National Park. In all, approximately 25 acres between the entrance to Sequoia National Park and the Foothills Visitor Center were treated. Completing this prescribed burn increases these places chance of being defendable during an unwanted wildfire as was demonstrated during the 2021 KNP Complex Fire. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-complete-on-2025-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-started-on-2025-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Sun, 01 Jun 2025 05:21:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 1, 2025 – Following a successful test burn and with concurrence from fire management staff and parks’ leadership, the 2025 Ash Mountain Prescribed Burn has started. Ignitions will continue each day through June 3, 2025 https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-started-on-2025-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2025-05-30-river-search.htm Fri, 30 May 2025 09:30:00 EST On May 25, over the holiday weekend, a 26-year-old woman was swept away in the cold, swift and dangerous river in Sequoia National Park. The incident occurred while recreating with friends and family near the river in the foothills area of the park. The search continues, and with a heat advisory beginning today, rivers will be extremely hazardous, and visitors should avoid swimming or getting too close. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2025-05-30-river-search.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/prescribed-burning-in-the-foothills-area-of-sequoia-national-park-begins-sunday-june-1.htm Fri, 23 May 2025 12:54:00 EST Firefighters plan to begin ignitions on the 2025 Ash Mountain Prescribed Burn in the foothills of Sequoia National Park on Sunday, June 1. One to three days of ignitions are planned. This project consists of 29 acres of broadcast prescribed burning and an additional 10 acres of non-fire fuels reduction (using weed whips, chainsaws, etc.).  https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/prescribed-burning-in-the-foothills-area-of-sequoia-national-park-begins-sunday-june-1.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/what-to-expect-this-2025-memorial-day-weekend-at-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Mon, 19 May 2025 11:18:00 EST Memorial Day weekend is considered the summer “kick-off” for Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Park visitation exceeded a record 2 million visitors in 2024, which means the parks are busier than ever before. Trip planning is essential for a safe and enjoyable visit. Here are some things to keep in mind as you plan your holiday weekend trip.   https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/what-to-expect-this-2025-memorial-day-weekend-at-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/crystal-cave-in-sequoia-national-park-is-reopening-for-2025-summer-season.htm Tue, 13 May 2025 10:11:00 EST Crystal Cave will reopen for guided tours on May 23 after four years of closure due to consecutive natural disasters in Sequoia National Park. This spectacular marble cave is near the Giant Forest area and is operated by Sequoia Parks Conservancy, the official park partner of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/crystal-cave-in-sequoia-national-park-is-reopening-for-2025-summer-season.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-move-to-fully-cashless-fee-collection-may-21.htm Tue, 06 May 2025 10:20:00 EST Beginning May 21, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks will transition to a fully cashless fee system. Mobile payments, credit cards, or debit cards will be required to pay entrance fees. Visitors who are only able to pay with cash may purchase a park pass from one of five local third-party vendors, including the visitor center nearest each park entrance.  https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-move-to-fully-cashless-fee-collection-may-21.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/mineral-king-road-construction-closures-and-delays-in-place-through-2027.htm Wed, 23 Apr 2025 12:24:00 EST A major rehabilitation construction project for Mineral King Road in Sequoia National Park began on April 1 this year and is planned to continue through the fall of 2027. Work will happen year-round, although this area of the parks is only open to public vehicle traffic from late May through October annually. Most visitors who come to the parks will not be impacted by this project, as the Mineral King Road turnoff from Highway 198 is located two miles prior to the main entrance of Sequoia National Park.  https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/mineral-king-road-construction-closures-and-delays-in-place-through-2027.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/cedar-grove-to-reopen-on-april-25-with-limited-services.htm Mon, 21 Apr 2025 11:22:00 EST After a seasonal winter closure, the Cedar Grove area in Kings Canyon National Park is set to reopen to visitor day use on Friday, April 25, at 7 a.m. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/cedar-grove-to-reopen-on-april-25-with-limited-services.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-update-visitor-center-operations-schedule.htm Fri, 28 Mar 2025 13:06:00 EST Visitor center hours in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks will return to 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. beginning Saturday, March 29. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-update-visitor-center-operations-schedule.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-change-visitor-center-operation-schedule.htm Fri, 07 Mar 2025 10:42:00 EST The Foothills Visitor Center, Kings Canyon Visitor Center, and Giant Forest Museum are now closed on scheduled days each week. Additionally, ranger programs in the parks are cancelled until further notice. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-change-visitor-center-operation-schedule.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/99th-annual-trek-to-the-nation-s-christmas-tree-scheduled-for-december-8th.htm Fri, 06 Dec 2024 09:33:00 EST The 99th Annual Trek to the Nation’s Christmas Tree event is taking place on December 8th at 2 p.m. at the historic Grant Tree in Grant Grove, Kings Canyon National Park. The official ceremony will begin at 2:30p.m. This cherished tradition celebrates the Nation’s Christmas Tree, the General Grant Tree, which holds a significant place in our nation’s history. December 8th is a free entrance day at Sequoia and Kings Canyon. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/99th-annual-trek-to-the-nation-s-christmas-tree-scheduled-for-december-8th.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2024-fire-restrictions-lifted.htm Mon, 02 Dec 2024 05:07:00 EST Fire restrictions have been lifted in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Changes in weather patterns and recent precipitation have reduced the risk of unwanted human-caused fires. Even with restrictions lifted, visitors must still follow the parks’ year-round regulations concerning fire.  https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2024-fire-restrictions-lifted.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/water-system-upgrades-completed-at-lodgepole-campground.htm Mon, 25 Nov 2024 10:00:00 EST Visitors to Sequoia National Park, as well as park employees, will benefit from an upgraded water distribution system in the Lodgepole Campground area, thanks to a recently completed $11 million rehabilitation project.    https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/water-system-upgrades-completed-at-lodgepole-campground.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2024-firewood-permits-available-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Wed, 02 Oct 2024 12:18:00 EST Surplus wood in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks is now available to the public by permit. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2024-firewood-permits-available-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-national-park-to-reopen-roads-trails-and-campground-on-sept-21-following-coffee-pot-fire-containment.htm Fri, 20 Sep 2024 12:54:00 EST On Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024, at 10 a.m., all road closures in Sequoia National Park due to the Coffee Pot Fire will be lifted, allowing public access. Mineral King Road and its recreation areas, as well as the section of South Fork Road within Sequoia National Park, will reopen. Most trails accessed from these roads will also be available, except for the Lady Bug Trail, which will remain closed due to burned areas that remain hazardous and susceptible to invasive plant activity. Atwell Mill Campground will also reopen. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-national-park-to-reopen-roads-trails-and-campground-on-sept-21-following-coffee-pot-fire-containment.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2024_labor_day.htm Thu, 29 Aug 2024 09:38:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS - Labor Day Weekend marks the end of the summer season and is historically a busy time at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. This year it is very important for visitors to plan ahead and understand how smoke and air quality may impact their visit. The Coffee Pot Fire continues to grow in Sequoia National Park wilderness, and although the main corridor through the parks to popular areas like the Giant Forest, Grant Grove, and Cedar Grove will remain open and accessible, planning ahead is highly recommended.  https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2024_labor_day.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sunset-campground-reopening.htm Wed, 21 Aug 2024 09:06:00 EST All sites in Sunset Campground in the Grant Grove area of Kings Canyon National Park will reopen on August 23. Reservations are now open through Recreation.gov. Visitors expecting to camp in the parks should ensure they have a reservation prior to arrival. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sunset-campground-reopening.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/coffeepot-wildfire-grows-to-100-acres.htm Fri, 16 Aug 2024 04:59:00 EST The Coffee Pot Fire has reached nearly 100 acres due to large burning logs rolling downhill and the dry fuels on the rugged landscape. This fire does not currently pose a threat to life or property, and fire crews are actively working on suppression efforts. It is expected that this fire remains on the landscape for weeks to come.  https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/coffeepot-wildfire-grows-to-100-acres.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-celebrate-buffalo-soldiers-day-and-colonel-young-tree-renaming-ceremony-july-27-28.htm Tue, 16 Jul 2024 12:19:00 EST On July 27-28, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks will celebrate Buffalo Soldiers Day with special programs and a tree renaming ceremony commemorating the posthumous promotion and legacy of Brigadier General Charles Young. Sunday, July 28, Buffalo Soldiers Day, has been designated as a fee-free day for visitors.  https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-celebrate-buffalo-soldiers-day-and-colonel-young-tree-renaming-ceremony-july-27-28.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2024-july-4th-weekend.htm Wed, 03 Jul 2024 11:11:00 EST Summer is in full swing at Sequoia and Kings Canyon, and holiday weekends are known to be extremely congested, impacting the visitor experience. This weekend, we encourage all visitors to follow seven tips to create a more safe and enjoyable visit for all. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2024-july-4th-weekend.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/cedar-grove-campground-reopens-on-july-3.htm Mon, 01 Jul 2024 11:33:00 EST Sentinel Campground in the Cedar Grove area of Kings Canyon National Park will reopen on July 3, just in time for the 4th of July holiday weekend. Reservations will open the morning of July 2 at 7 a.m. through Recreation.gov. During the busy summer months visitors expecting to camp in the parks should ensure they have a reservation prior to arrival. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/cedar-grove-campground-reopens-on-july-3.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/mineral-king-campground-reopens.htm Thu, 27 Jun 2024 04:49:00 EST Atwell Campground in the Mineral King area of Sequoia National Park will reopen on July 2, just in time for the 4th of July holiday weekend. Reservations will open the morning of June 27 at 7 a.m. through Recreation.gov. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/mineral-king-campground-reopens.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/park-ridge-prescribed-burn.htm Sun, 23 Jun 2024 09:16:00 EST Ignition operations have commenced for the Park Ridge Prescribed Burn in the Grant Grove Area of Kings Canyon National Park, scheduled to continue for six days. Smoke may be visible from the Generals Highway and Highway 180. Visitors should anticipate moderate smoke impacts in the Grant Grove and potentially Hume Lake on ignition days, along with intermittent traffic delays. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/park-ridge-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/park-ridge-prescribed-burn-dates.htm Tue, 11 Jun 2024 05:31:00 EST Following consultations with park leadership and the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District, a start date has been established for the upcoming Park Ridge Prescribed Burn in the Grant Grove area of Kings Canyon National Park. Ignitions are scheduled to begin on the morning of Sunday, June 23, and continue for up to six days, depending upon conditions. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/park-ridge-prescribed-burn-dates.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/cedar-grove-to-reopen-in-kcnp.htm Fri, 07 Jun 2024 07:58:00 EST Cedar Grove will reopen to public access on June 10, 2024, marking the first time visitors can return since severe flooding during the winter of 2022-2023 that caused significant damage. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/cedar-grove-to-reopen-in-kcnp.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/road-stony-creek-open-after-repair.htm Wed, 05 Jun 2024 06:29:00 EST The road between Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks is now open and passable in both lanes of traffic after an emergency road repair was completed Tuesday evening. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/road-stony-creek-open-after-repair.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/road-closed-for-emergency-repair.htm Tue, 04 Jun 2024 13:03:00 EST The road between Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks is closed for emergency road repair. Crews will attempt to make repairs tonight, but it is unclear whether the road will be reopened by tomorrow. For current road conditions please call 559-565-3341. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/road-closed-for-emergency-repair.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/avoiding-dangerous-rivers.htm Sat, 01 Jun 2024 04:42:00 EST As the summer season heats up, park officials advise visitors to exercise heightened caution around the park's rivers due to hazardous conditions. Recent incidents have highlighted the dangers present in these areas. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/avoiding-dangerous-rivers.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2024-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn.htm Fri, 31 May 2024 06:14:00 EST Firefighters plan to begin ignitions on the 2024 Ash Mountain Prescribed Burn in the foothills of Sequoia National Park on Sunday, June 2. Two days of ignitions are planned. This project consists of 19 acres of broadcast prescribed burning and an additional 20 acres of non-fire fuels reduction (using weed whips, chainsaws, etc.). https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2024-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2024-stage-one-fire-restrictions.htm Fri, 31 May 2024 05:42:00 EST Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks will enter stage 1 fire restrictions at 6:00 a.m. on Friday, May 31, 2024. Stage 1 fire restrictions prohibit wood and charcoal fires, including wood burning stoves, at elevations of 3,000 feet and below. Campground and picnic areas that are affected include Potwisha Campground, and the Hospital Rock and Foothills Picnic Areas. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2024-stage-one-fire-restrictions.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2024-memorial-day-weekend.htm Fri, 24 May 2024 04:41:00 EST Memorial Day weekend is considered the summer “kick-off” for Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, and the parks are expected to be exceptionally busy. Trip-planning is essential for a safe and enjoyable visit. Here are some things to keep in mind as you plan your holiday weekend trip. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2024-memorial-day-weekend.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/road-construction-closures-lifted-5-13-24.htm Mon, 13 May 2024 08:17:00 EST The phase of road construction requiring closures on the Generals Highway, previously slated through May 23, 2024, has concluded ahead of schedule. All road closures between Ash Mountain and the Giant Forest are lifted, however, visitors may still encounter up to 30-minute delays as construction continues in the vicinity. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/road-construction-closures-lifted-5-13-24.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/road-construction-begins-april-29.htm Fri, 26 Apr 2024 09:54:00 EST Beginning the week of April 29 visitors to Sequoia National Park can expect weekday, daytime closures, and delays for an estimated 4-week period between Hospital Rock and the Giant Forest area. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/road-construction-begins-april-29.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/april-29-road-closures-and-delays.htm Thu, 11 Apr 2024 11:40:00 EST Tentatively beginning the week of April 29 visitors to Sequoia National Park can expect weekday, daytime closures, and delays for an estimated 4-week period between Hospital Rock and the Giant Forest area. This work had initially been scheduled to begin on April 15. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/april-29-road-closures-and-delays.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2024-03-29-road-construction.htm Fri, 29 Mar 2024 07:30:00 EST Tentatively beginning the week of April 15 visitors to Sequoia National Park can expect weekday, daytime closures, and delays for an estimated 4-week period between Hospital Rock and the Giant Forest area. This is the last remaining section of severely damaged roadway along the Generals Highway from the early 2023 winter storms, out of over 20. All other damage along the Generals Highway was repaired in 2023, but this section is requiring significant drilling and rebuilding with large heavy machinery, in a narrow and windy section of the road. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2024-03-29-road-construction.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2024-01-18-winter-pile-burns.htm Thu, 18 Jan 2024 10:00:00 EST Fire management staff at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are preparing to burn piles of cut vegetation in multiple locations throughout the parks. The work will be ongoing as conditions allow from January 22 through March 15, 2024. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2024-01-18-winter-pile-burns.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2023-fire-restrictions-lifted-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Mon, 20 Nov 2023 10:43:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. November 20, 2023 – Effective at 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks will no longer be in fire restrictions. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2023-fire-restrictions-lifted-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/hiker-fatality-on-mt-whitney-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Fri, 20 Oct 2023 06:13:00 EST Tom Gerbier, a French National of Fontenay-sous-Bois, France, and pilot for Air France, was reported missing when he didn’t show up for his return flight. He started his hike from Whitney Portal early Tuesday morning, October 17, via the Mountaineering Route and was due back on a flight on Wednesday, October 18. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/hiker-fatality-on-mt-whitney-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/fall-and-winter-pile-burns-planned-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Sun, 15 Oct 2023 10:59:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. October 15 – Fire management staff at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are preparing to begin burning piles of cut vegetation in multiple locations throughout the parks. The work will be ongoing as conditions allow from October 21 – December 1, 2023. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/fall-and-winter-pile-burns-planned-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/grant-grove-prescribed-burn-postponed-due-to-dry-conditions.htm Sun, 08 Oct 2023 11:17:00 EST Fire management staff at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are postponing implementation of the Grant Grove Prescribed Burn, in the Grant Grove area of Kings Canyon National Park, due to dry fuel conditions within the unit. The parks hope to reschedule the prescribed burn, which was formerly scheduled to begin next week, for later this fall, but anticipate that it will be necessary to wait for the area to receive precipitation. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/grant-grove-prescribed-burn-postponed-due-to-dry-conditions.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/grant-grove-prescribed-burn-planned-in-kings-canyon-national-park.htm Sat, 07 Oct 2023 06:00:00 EST Fire management staff at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks plan to begin ignitions on the Grant Grove Prescribed Burn, in the Grant Grove area of Kings Canyon National Park on Sunday, October 15. 520 acres of burning are planned over the course of 4-6 days of ignitions. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/grant-grove-prescribed-burn-planned-in-kings-canyon-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-announce-a-determination-on-a-proposal-to-re-establish-sequoia-seedlings-in-sequoia-groves.htm Thu, 05 Oct 2023 10:01:00 EST Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are taking the next steps toward restoration recovery efforts for forests that were impacted by high severity fire during the 2020 Castle and 2021 KNP Complex Wildfires. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-announce-a-determination-on-a-proposal-to-re-establish-sequoia-seedlings-in-sequoia-groves.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/firewood-permits-now-available-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Thu, 07 Sep 2023 11:05:00 EST Surplus wood is currently available to the public by permit in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Firewood permits are free, but you must obtain your permit before wood can be removed. Permit holders may take up to six cords per family per year. Firewood is available on a first-come, first-served basis until the supply is gone or December 31, 2023. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/firewood-permits-now-available-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/parks-utilizing-confine-and-contain-suppression-strategy-for-redwood-fire-in-sequoia-national-park-wilderness.htm Thu, 31 Aug 2023 04:42:00 EST Fire management staff and park leadership have elected to utilize a confine and contain strategy to manage the Redwood Fire, located in the wilderness of Sequoia National Park, near Redwood Meadow. The lightning-ignited fire is currently 75 acres in size and burning at low intensity up a steep, forested slope. It currently poses no threats to life or property. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/parks-utilizing-confine-and-contain-suppression-strategy-for-redwood-fire-in-sequoia-national-park-wilderness.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/missing-hiker-found-in-good-health-in-sequoia.htm Mon, 14 Aug 2023 09:55:00 EST Missing hiker Bill Roberts has been located in Sequoia National Park. Roberts is in good health and is being reunited with his family. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/missing-hiker-found-in-good-health-in-sequoia.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/search-underway-for-missing-hiker-bill-roberts-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Sun, 13 Aug 2023 14:54:00 EST A search is underway in Sequoia National Park for hiker Bill Roberts, 76, of Lake Tahoe, CA. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/search-underway-for-missing-hiker-bill-roberts-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/man-with-knife-in-the-giant-forest-area-of-sequoia-national-park-located-and-apprehended.htm Sat, 15 Jul 2023 06:11:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. - On Friday Law enforcement rangers were looking for a man with a knife in the Giant Forest area of Sequoia National Park. The subject was located Friday evening and arrested. No injuries or further altercations were reported. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/man-with-knife-in-the-giant-forest-area-of-sequoia-national-park-located-and-apprehended.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/rangers-searching-for-man-with-knife.htm Fri, 14 Jul 2023 10:55:00 EST Law enforcement rangers are looking for a man with a knife in the Giant Forest area of Sequoia National Park. Officials have reported no injuries. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/rangers-searching-for-man-with-knife.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-seek-public-feedback-on-proposal-to-re-establish-sequoia-seedlings.htm Fri, 07 Jul 2023 05:09:00 EST Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks (the parks) is inviting public review and comment on an environmental assessment (EA) evaluating alternatives to restore giant sequoia groves and adjacent fisher habitat in areas severely impacted by the 2020 Castle and 2021 KNP Complex wildfires, and where adequate regeneration is otherwise not anticipated. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-seek-public-feedback-on-proposal-to-re-establish-sequoia-seedlings.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/what-to-expect-this-holiday-weekend-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Fri, 30 Jun 2023 04:25:00 EST With increased access into the Giant Forest area beginning on July 1, and a heat wave hitting the valley, we expect the parks to be even busier than usual. We urge visitors to plan ahead and come prepared to ensure they have a fun and safe holiday weekend experience. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/what-to-expect-this-holiday-weekend-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/the-generals-highway-in-sequoia-national-park-expected-to-be-fully-open-on-july-1-this-will-reopen-vehicle-access-to-the-giant-forest-from-three-rivers-ca.htm Fri, 23 Jun 2023 09:29:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Cali. - After being closed for over three months due to severe damage from a series of storms early in the year, the Generals Highway between the Foothills and Giant Forest areas of Sequoia National Park will reopen to public travel on Saturday, July 1. Road construction is still underway along two sections of the highway, and traffic lights will be used to manage one-lane vehicle travel. Visitors are advised that although most park roads are now open, sections damaged by winter storms require caution and reduced speeds until permanent repairs are completed. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/the-generals-highway-in-sequoia-national-park-expected-to-be-fully-open-on-july-1-this-will-reopen-vehicle-access-to-the-giant-forest-from-three-rivers-ca.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-to-enter-stage-2-fire-restrictions.htm Sun, 18 Jun 2023 12:39:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. June 18, 2023 – Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks will enter stage 2 fire restrictions at 6:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 21, 2023. Stage 2 fire restrictions prohibit campfires and charcoal fires in the hot, dry, low-elevation areas of the parks, including Potwisha Campground and Hospital Rock and Ash Mountain Picnic Areas. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-to-enter-stage-2-fire-restrictions.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-announce-decision-to-remove-hazardous-trees-damaged-by-the-knp-complex-wildfire.htm Fri, 16 Jun 2023 08:30:00 EST Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks have decided to mitigate thousands of tree hazards along road corridors following the KNP Complex Wildfire that burned through the parks in fall of 2021. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-announce-decision-to-remove-hazardous-trees-damaged-by-the-knp-complex-wildfire.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-complete-on-2023-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn.htm Fri, 09 Jun 2023 09:51:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 09, 2023 – Fire staff have completed ignitions on the 2023 Ash Mountain Prescribed Burn. Combined acreage from prescribed burning and fuels reduction using non-fire methods is 39.5 acres for this project. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-complete-on-2023-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-officially-begun-on-2023-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn.htm Thu, 08 Jun 2023 07:09:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 08, 2023 – Following a successful test burn this morning, ignitions have officially begun on the Ash Mountain Prescribed Burn. This follows an unsuccessful test burn yesterday. Today, relative humidity is reduced, there is less cloud cover, and fuel consumption is meeting objectives. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-officially-begun-on-2023-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/wet-weather-hinders-progress-on-2023-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn.htm Wed, 07 Jun 2023 10:17:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 07, 2023 –Due to inclement weather and unfavorable fuel moisture conditions, fire management staff and park leadership have delayed further ignitions for the 2023 Ash Mountain Prescribed Burn until tomorrow, Thursday June 8, after an unsuccessful test burn. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/wet-weather-hinders-progress-on-2023-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/dates-selected-for-2023-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn.htm Sat, 03 Jun 2023 09:00:00 EST Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, Calif. June 03, 2023 – Firefighters plan to begin ignitions on the 2023 Ash Mountain Prescribed Burn in the foothills of Sequoia National Park on Wednesday, June 7. Three to five days of ignitions are planned. This project consists of 35 acres of broadcast prescribed burning and an additional 4 acres of non-fire fuels reduction (using weed whips, chainsaws, etc.). https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/dates-selected-for-2023-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/the-giant-forest-area-in-sequoia-national-park-reopens-6-2.htm Thu, 01 Jun 2023 13:04:00 EST Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Calif – The Giant Forest area of Sequoia National Park, home to the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree in the world (by volume), will reopen to the public on Friday, June 2. This area closed in early March in advance of what would become a catastrophic series of storms, 84 days ago. Those storms left behind severe road and infrastructure damage that continues to impact public access. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/the-giant-forest-area-in-sequoia-national-park-reopens-6-2.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/severe-winter-damages-key-bridges-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-wilderness.htm Thu, 25 May 2023 05:04:00 EST Following a winter that delivered 279% of the average annual Sierra Nevada snowpack, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are in the early stages of assessing damage to infrastructure in wilderness areas. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/severe-winter-damages-key-bridges-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-wilderness.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-plan-2023-prescribed-burns-and-fuels-reduction-projects.htm Mon, 15 May 2023 09:41:00 EST Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, Calif. May 15, 2023 – Fire managers at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks have prepared a tentative schedule for prescribed burns and other fuels reduction projects in 2023. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-plan-2023-prescribed-burns-and-fuels-reduction-projects.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-provide-updates-to-estimated-reopening-dates-ahead-of-the-memorial-day-weekend.htm Thu, 11 May 2023 13:14:00 EST Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks personnel continue to make progress with snow clearing, damage repairs, and all the various tasks associated with recovering from a historic winter season. Memorial Day weekend is the usual kick-off to summer in the parks, but unfortunately this year, access to the world’s largest tree (by volume) and the surrounding Giant Forest and Lodgepole area won’t be open in time. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-provide-updates-to-estimated-reopening-dates-ahead-of-the-memorial-day-weekend.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2023-04-27-reopening-update.htm Thu, 27 Apr 2023 12:21:00 EST Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Tulare County, Caltrans, and others continue to make progress with damage assessments and repairs at a time when the public is eager to get out into their public lands and plan their summer vacations. Thanks to information provided by partner agencies we can share a couple significant updates as part of our weekly review of estimated reopening dates. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2023-04-27-reopening-update.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/the-foothills-area-of-sequoia-national-park-reopening-april-14.htm Thu, 13 Apr 2023 10:01:00 EST Effective Friday, April 14, public access to the foothills of Sequoia National Park will be restored following massive flooding that caused major road damage last month. Access into the Grant Grove area of Kings Canyon National Park reopened last Friday, April 7. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/the-foothills-area-of-sequoia-national-park-reopening-april-14.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2023-03-25-reopening-estimates.htm Sat, 25 Mar 2023 11:44:00 EST Roads and facilities in the parks have been badly damaged by the recent major winter storms, beginning with a weather event in early January and followed by a succession of weather events in March. Park officials stress that there are still many unknowns that are likely to change these dates, and plan to issue regular updates to their projections. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2023-03-25-reopening-estimates.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2023-03-23-public-meeting.htm Thu, 23 Mar 2023 02:55:00 EST Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, in partnership with Tulare County and Caltrans, is hosting a public meeting on Friday, March 24 at 6 p.m. Agencies will provide an overview of damage and impacts from the recent storm systems, with an opportunity for participants to ask questions. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2023-03-23-public-meeting.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/update-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-prepare-for-forecasted-atmospheric-river-to-begin-thursday.htm Wed, 08 Mar 2023 12:54:00 EST Park managers are now planning to close the Kings Canyon National Park entrance tomorrow, Thursday March 9, at 6 p.m. PST, in addition to the previously announced planned closure of the Sequoia National Park entrance at the same time. This is due to the forecasted atmospheric river storm, which is predicted to bring extremely heavy rain beginning tomorrow evening. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/update-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-prepare-for-forecasted-atmospheric-river-to-begin-thursday.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-prepare-for-forecasted-atmospheric-river-to-begin-thursday.htm Tue, 07 Mar 2023 10:42:00 EST Due to a predicted major precipitation event at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, the Ash Mountain entrance to Sequoia National Park is anticipated to close on Thursday, March 9 at 6 pm. Closures may occur throughout Kings Canyon National Park depending upon how the weather system unfolds. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-prepare-for-forecasted-atmospheric-river-to-begin-thursday.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-virtual-public-meeting-rescheduled-for-tuesday-march-7-planting-sequoia-seedlings-in-areas-impacted-by-recent-wildfires.htm Mon, 06 Mar 2023 11:20:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. – The National Park Service (NPS) is seeking public feedback on a proposal to replant giant sequoia and other mixed conifer seedlings in areas severely impacted by the recent Castle and KNP Complex wildfires and where regeneration is otherwise not anticipated in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.   Due to technical difficulties during the virtual public meeting last week, the parks have rescheduled the virtual public meeting for tomorrow, Tuesday March 7, from 5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. PST. The link to join the meeting can be found on the project website: https://parkplanning.nps.gov/MeetingNotices.cfm?projectID=107200 https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-virtual-public-meeting-rescheduled-for-tuesday-march-7-planting-sequoia-seedlings-in-areas-impacted-by-recent-wildfires.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-seek-public-input-on-planting-sequoia-seedlings-in-areas-impacted-by-recent-wildfires.htm Fri, 17 Feb 2023 07:10:00 EST The National Park Service (NPS) is seeking public feedback on a proposal to replant giant sequoia and other mixed conifer seedlings in areas severely impacted by the recent Castle and KNP Complex wildfires and where regeneration is otherwise not anticipated in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.   https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-seek-public-input-on-planting-sequoia-seedlings-in-areas-impacted-by-recent-wildfires.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/the-giant-forest-in-sequoia-national-park-set-to-reopen-on-saturday-february-11.htm Thu, 09 Feb 2023 12:12:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. February 9, 2023 – Public access to the Giant Forest in Sequoia National Park is scheduled to reopen on Saturday, February 11. The Generals Highway above Hospital Rock has been closed since early January due to severe road damage after a series of winter storms. This reopening will provide access to the Giant Forest Museum, the General Sherman Tree, and Wolverton snowplay area. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/the-giant-forest-in-sequoia-national-park-set-to-reopen-on-saturday-february-11.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/update-public-meeting-about-visitor-experience-and-access-this-wednesday-february-8.htm Mon, 06 Feb 2023 10:52:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. February 6, 2023 – Officials from Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks will be hosting a public meeting on the topic of visitor experience and access on Wednesday, February 8, at 6 p.m. at the Three Rivers Memorial Building. This meeting has been rescheduled multiple times due to weather emergencies in and around the parks. The associated public comment period will remain open until Wednesday, February 15. This meeting will not be livestreamed, but the recording of a previous virtual public meeting on this topic can be found on the project site linked below. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/update-public-meeting-about-visitor-experience-and-access-this-wednesday-february-8.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-invite-public-to-comment-on-plan-to-remove-hazardous-trees-damaged-by-the-knp-complex-wildfire.htm Fri, 03 Feb 2023 07:05:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. February 3, 2023 – Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks invite the public to submit feedback on a plan that explores alternative actions to minimize risk to human safety and infrastructure from fallen tree hazards in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks resulting from the KNP Complex wildfire in 2021.The KNP Complex Wildfire Tree Hazard Mitigation Environmental Assessment (EA) 30-day public comment period begins on Feb. 3, 2023, and ends on March 4, 2023. This review period follows the receipt of initial feedback from the public during the summer of 2022. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-invite-public-to-comment-on-plan-to-remove-hazardous-trees-damaged-by-the-knp-complex-wildfire.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-public-meeting-about-visitor-experience-and-access-postponed-until-february-public-meeting-about-storm-impacts-scheduled-for-january-19.htm Wed, 18 Jan 2023 05:00:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. January 18, 2023 – As National Park Service personnel continue to assess damage and respond to emergencies in the parks following recent storms, a decision has been made to further postpone the public meeting scheduled for tonight in Three Rivers, CA, on the topic of visitor experience and access. Tomorrow, January 19, NPS officials will host a public meeting on the topic of storm impacts and response at the Three Rivers Memorial Building at 6 p.m. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-public-meeting-about-visitor-experience-and-access-postponed-until-february-public-meeting-about-storm-impacts-scheduled-for-january-19.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/pile-burns-planned-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Wed, 18 Jan 2023 04:56:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. January 13, 2023 – Beginning as early as January 17 through the middle of February, fire personnel at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks will be burning piles of cut wood and other vegetation in the Big Stump area of Grant Grove and the Lodgepole area of Giant Forest. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/pile-burns-planned-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/severe-storm-impacts-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-what-to-expect-this-holiday-weekend.htm Thu, 12 Jan 2023 10:32:00 EST Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks has seen an extraordinary amount of precipitation this winter, with the last storm causing serious drainage failures, undermining the road at three different sections of the Generals Highway between Hospital Rock and Giant Forest in Sequoia National Park. Road crews are currently working to protect the integrity of the road before the upcoming series of storms in an effort to minimize longer term damage. Numerous land slides are blocking at least one lane of traffic. Damage is being assessed in collaboration with Federal Highways Administration engineers, and major repairs are expected before it will be safe to reopen to the public. As the weather stabilizes next week we expect to know more and provide an update. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/severe-storm-impacts-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-what-to-expect-this-holiday-weekend.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/update-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-public-meeting-about-visitor-experience-and-access-postponed-to-january-18.htm Tue, 10 Jan 2023 11:30:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. January 10, 2023 – Due to storm impacts in the parks and in Three Rivers, CA the public meeting scheduled for Wednesday, January 11 has been postponed to Wednesday, January 18 at 6 p.m. at the Three Rivers Memorial Building. The public comment period has been extended through January 24. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/update-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-public-meeting-about-visitor-experience-and-access-postponed-to-january-18.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/winter-holidays-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Thu, 22 Dec 2022 08:42:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. December 22, 2022 – The end of the year is upon us, and the week between Christmas and the new year is a popular time to visit the parks. Seasonal closures and the possibility of winter weather add complexity to this busy holiday period, and trip planning is important to ensure a positive experience. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/winter-holidays-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-announce-campground-fee-increase-and-booking-windows-for-2023.htm Wed, 21 Dec 2022 07:38:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. December 21, 2022 – On January 1, 2023, campground fee increases will take effect for Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. This is the first of two increases, with the second set to take effect in 2024. This phased increase brings Sequoia ancd Kings Canyon National Parks’ campground fees in line with prices of similar campgrounds in the area and follows a public comment period that was announced in August 2022. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-announce-campground-fee-increase-and-booking-windows-for-2023.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/thanksgiving-weekend-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Tue, 22 Nov 2022 09:47:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. November 22, 2022 – Thanksgiving weekend is a busy time in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, at a time of year when some services and attractions are closed for the winter. Planning will help to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/thanksgiving-weekend-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-seek-public-input-about-visitor-experience-and-access.htm Thu, 17 Nov 2022 08:27:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. November 17, 2022 – The National Park Service (NPS) is initiating a Visitor Experience and Access planning process for developed areas of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks and is seeking public feedback to help identify key issues and ways the NPS can improve visitor experiences. You are invited to participate in the planning process during the public comment period, today through January 17, 2023. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-seek-public-input-about-visitor-experience-and-access.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/highway-180-into-cedar-grove-closing-due-to-predicted-winter-weather.htm Sat, 05 Nov 2022 10:00:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. November 05, 2022 – Due to a predicted winter weather event expected to deliver heavy snow and rain throughout the coming week, Caltrans will be closing Highway 180 at the Hume Lake junction on Sunday, November 6, at noon. There will be no access to Cedar Grove in Kings Canyon National Park while this closure is in place. Caltrans will assess whether it is possible to reopen the road on Thursday, November 10. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/highway-180-into-cedar-grove-closing-due-to-predicted-winter-weather.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-taking-emergency-action-to-protect-giant-sequoias.htm Thu, 13 Oct 2022 06:37:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. October 13, 2022 – Beginning Friday, Oct. 14, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks will initiate emergency actions to protect giant sequoias from the threats posed by high-intensity wildfire. Park staff will remove and reduce dense vegetation and other potential fire fuel sources in and around 11 giant sequoia groves that are especially at risk. The work will include manual thinning by hand, and later burning piles of cut vegetation and dead wood, and later using prescribed fire in areas that were initially thinned by hand. Most of these groves are in remote locations. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-taking-emergency-action-to-protect-giant-sequoias.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/firewood-permits-available-for-dorst-woodlot-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Tue, 06 Sep 2022 05:38:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. September 6, 2022 – Surplus wood is currently available to the public by permit in Sequoia National Park. Firewood permits are free, but you must obtain your permit before wood can be removed. Permit holders may take up to six cords per family per year. Firewood is available on a first-come first-served basis until the supply is gone. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/firewood-permits-available-for-dorst-woodlot-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/search-for-quang-trong-than-in-kings-canyon-national-park-moving-to-limited-continuous-mode.htm Thu, 01 Sep 2022 10:20:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. September 1, 2022 – For the past 10 days, searches have been underway in Kings Canyon National Park and Inyo National Forest for Quang Trong Than, 66, of Newport Beach, CA. The search for Than is scaling back to limited continuous mode. This means that while searching will continue, the large number of resources and personnel that have been dedicated to this effort will be reduced. The search will remain in limited continuous mode until Than is found. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/search-for-quang-trong-than-in-kings-canyon-national-park-moving-to-limited-continuous-mode.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/labor-day-weekend-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Thu, 01 Sep 2022 05:33:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. September 1, 2022 – Labor Day Weekend is the last major holiday weekend of the summer in the parks, and as such is often as busy or even busier than the Fourth of July. Visitors are strongly encouraged to plan ahead to ensure an enjoyable and safe holiday weekend. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/labor-day-weekend-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/search-underway-for-missing-hiker-quang-trong-than-in-kings-canyon-national-park.htm Tue, 30 Aug 2022 04:44:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. August 29, 2022 – A search is underway in Kings Canyon National Park and Inyo National Forest for Quang Trong Than, 66, of Newport Beach, CA. Than was last seen on Sunday, August 21 between 3 and 4 p.m near the peak of Split Mountain, on the Sierra Nevada Crest, close to the boundary between the national park and the national forest. Than became separated from his group at the base of the summit. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/search-underway-for-missing-hiker-quang-trong-than-in-kings-canyon-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-propose-campground-fee-increases.htm Tue, 16 Aug 2022 09:52:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. August 16, 2022 – Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks (the parks) are proposing a fee increase at 14 front country campgrounds: Atwell Mill, Cold Springs, Potwisha, Buckeye Flat, Dorst Creek, Lodgepole, Wolverton Stock campsites, Azalea, Sunset, Crystal Springs, Sentinel, Moraine, Sheep Creek, and Canyon View. The proposed fee increases would be enacted in two phases, with the first increase implemented on January 1, 2023 and a second increase on January 1, 2024. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-propose-campground-fee-increases.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/the-national-park-service-advances-knp-complex-wildfire-tree-hazard-mitigation-project-at-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Fri, 22 Jul 2022 07:53:00 EST Public comment period opens July 22 and runs through August 21 SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. July 22, 2022 – The National Park Service (NPS) is announcing the next steps in advancing recovery efforts to mitigate roadside tree hazards resulting from the KNP Complex Wildfire which burned over 88,000 acres of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks (parks) from September through October of 2021. Where moderate to high severity fire crossed roadways, many of the fire-killed trees are now considered tree hazards – meaning they pose a direct risk to human safety and property due to the likelihood of their failure and potential to hit a human or man-made target. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/the-national-park-service-advances-knp-complex-wildfire-tree-hazard-mitigation-project-at-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2022-summer-roadwork-on-generals-highway.htm Tue, 05 Jul 2022 12:45:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. July 5, 2022– Beginning on Monday, July 11, a road preservation project is scheduled along the Generals Highway, the road that connects Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. The project will continue throughout the summer and fall. Short stretches of road will be sealed and resurfaced. If you encounter one of these construction zones, expect delays of up to 30 minutes during the day, and up to one hour at night. Road work will stop for the weekend on Fridays at 6 p.m. and resume on Sundays at 8 p.m.  https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2022-summer-roadwork-on-generals-highway.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-prepare-for-fourth-of-july-weekend.htm Thu, 30 Jun 2022 11:20:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. June 29, 2022– Summer is in full swing at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Fourth of July weekend is expected to be extremely busy, and visitors are strongly encouraged to plan ahead to ensure an enjoyable and safe holiday weekend. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-prepare-for-fourth-of-july-weekend.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-complete-for-tharps-hazelwood-prescribed-burn.htm Fri, 17 Jun 2022 07:00:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 17, 2022 – Fire staff completed ignitions on the last segment of the Tharps-Hazelwood Prescribed Burn unit last evening, for a total of 752-acres treated since Thursday, June 9, 2022. With ignitions complete, firefighters will continue to patrol the area as vegetation inside the unit burns down. Access to the General Sherman Tree remains open from the Sherman Tree parking lots. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-complete-for-tharps-hazelwood-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-have-started-on-the-tharps-hazelwood-prescribed-burn.htm Thu, 09 Jun 2022 05:54:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 9, 2022 – Following a successful test burn this morning and a determination by the burn boss and fire management staff, ignitions have begun on the Tharps-Hazelwood Prescribed Burn in Sequoia National Park. Eight to nine days of ignitions are planned to complete these critical fuels treatments. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-have-started-on-the-tharps-hazelwood-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/dates-selected-for-tharps-hazelwood-prescribed-burn.htm Tue, 07 Jun 2022 05:00:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 7, 2022 – Scheduled to start June 9, 2022, fire managers will conduct the 752-acre Tharps-Hazelwood Prescribed Burn in the Giant Forest of Sequoia National Park. This prescribed burn is scheduled to take 8-9 days to complete. The Tharps-Hazelwood Prescribed Burn is located in the heart of the Giant Forest and roughly half of a mile northeast of the Giant Forest Museum. Access to the General Sherman Tree will not be limited by the prescribed burn. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/dates-selected-for-tharps-hazelwood-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-complete-on-2022-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn.htm Mon, 06 Jun 2022 08:45:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 6, 2021 – As of this afternoon, ignitions are complete on the 2022 Ash Mountain Prescribed Burn in Sequoia National Park. In all, approximately 15 acres between the Sequoia National Park entrance station and the Foothills Visitor Center, one mile inside the park were treated. Additional acres will be treated manually through the grazing of the parks’ stock animals or through weed eating. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-complete-on-2022-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-started-on-2022-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Sun, 05 Jun 2022 04:00:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 5, 2022 – Following a successful test burn and with concurrence from fire management staff and parks’ leadership, the 2022 Ash Mountain Prescribed Burn has started. Ignitions will continue through tomorrow June 6, 2022 https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-started-on-2022-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2022-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn-scheduled-june-5-june-6.htm Thu, 02 Jun 2022 04:00:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 2, 2022 – Fire managers with Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks have scheduled the annual Ash Mountain Prescribed Burn in the foothills of Sequoia National Park, near the parks’ headquarters and entrance station along the main road, Generals Highway. Ignitions are planned to begin on June 5, 2022, and continue through June 6, 2022. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2022-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn-scheduled-june-5-june-6.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/southern-california-edison-conducting-emergency-repairs-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Wed, 01 Jun 2022 04:43:00 EST Southern California Edison (SCE) will be performing critical repairs to its infrastructure in Sequoia National Park from June 1 through June 16, 2022. SCE crews and contractors will be working daily from approximately 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.—including weekends—anywhere between the entrance to Sequoia National Park and the Giant Forest. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/southern-california-edison-conducting-emergency-repairs-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-kings-canyon-national-parks-2022-prescribed-burns-scheduled.htm Tue, 31 May 2022 14:28:00 EST Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, Calif. May 31, 2022 – Fire managers with Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks have scheduled upcoming prescribed burns in Sequoia National Park. The first, Ash Mountain Prescribed Burn consists of five segments, for approximately 15 acres between the Sequoia National Park entrance station and the Foothills Visitor Center, one mile inside the park, with an earliest start date of Sunday, June 5. The second, Tharps-Hazelwood Prescribed Burn, will treat 752 acres in the heart of the Giant Forest, roughly one-half mile northeast of the Giant Forest Museum. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-kings-canyon-national-parks-2022-prescribed-burns-scheduled.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2022-stage-2-fire-restrictions-in-effect-may-27-2022.htm Thu, 26 May 2022 11:41:00 EST Fire restrictions are being implemented in the lower-elevation areas of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks to reduce the risk of wildfire to protect people, public lands, resources, and facilities. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2022-stage-2-fire-restrictions-in-effect-may-27-2022.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2022-memorial-day-weekend-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Thu, 26 May 2022 08:05:00 EST Memorial Day weekend is considered the summer “kick-off” for Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, and the parks are expected to be exceptionally busy. Trip planning is essential for a safe and enjoyable visit. Here are some things to keep in mind as you plan your holiday weekend trip. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2022-memorial-day-weekend-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/cedar-grove-scheduled-to-open-may-9-2022.htm Wed, 04 May 2022 13:10:00 EST The Cedar Grove area of Kings Canyon National Park is scheduled to open on Monday, May 9. This area had originally been scheduled to open on April 22, but was delayed due to a significant rockslide on a portion of Highway 180 in Sequoia National Forest. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/cedar-grove-scheduled-to-open-may-9-2022.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/cedar-grove-opening-delayed-in-kings-canyon-national-park-due-to-rockslide-on-highway-180.htm Thu, 21 Apr 2022 05:04:00 EST The Cedar Grove area of Kings Canyon National Park will not be opening on Friday, April 22, as scheduled, due to a significant rockslide on a portion of Highway 180 near Boyden Cavern (east of the cave at milepost 131) in Sequoia National Forest. Travelers with campground reservations at Sentinel Campground in Cedar Grove are being notified through Recreation.gov only if their reservations need to be canceled at this time. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/cedar-grove-opening-delayed-in-kings-canyon-national-park-due-to-rockslide-on-highway-180.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/early-crescent-meadow-road-opening-construction-closes-giant-forest-parking-area.htm Thu, 07 Apr 2022 11:01:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. April 7, 2022 – Beginning on Tuesday, April 12 the Giant Forest Museum and adjacent parking lot will close weekly Tuesday through Thursday, for an estimated four weeks, through Thursday, May 5. A construction project is underway to install two new restrooms and repave a portion of the parking lot. A temporary closure of this area will allow for more efficient work and reduce overall visitor impacts. In order to maintain access to the popular Moro Rock and Crescent Meadow areas, the road to these areas will open temporarily during this four-week period, seven days a week. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/early-crescent-meadow-road-opening-construction-closes-giant-forest-parking-area.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/the-generals-highway-between-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-opens-march-18-2022.htm Thu, 17 Mar 2022 08:18:00 EST The portion of the Generals Highway between Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks is opening on Friday, March 18 for the season. This reopening will allow visitors to travel between the Grant Grove area of Kings Canyon and the Giant Forest area of Sequoia, making it much easier to visit both parks in a single visit. This portion of the highway was largely affected by the 2021 KNP Complex Fire, and this is the first time it opens to the public since the fire. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/the-generals-highway-between-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-opens-march-18-2022.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/giant-forest-and-wolverton-areas-open-7-days-a-week-beginning-march-11.htm Thu, 10 Mar 2022 10:36:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. March 10, 2022 – The Giant Forest in Sequoia National Park will remain open to the public beginning Friday, March 11. This area has been opening on a limited schedule, Friday through Monday, as conditions have allowed, since December 11. This area was closed to public access starting in mid-September due to the KNP Complex Fire, which burned more than 88,000 acres, mostly within Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, in 2021. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/giant-forest-and-wolverton-areas-open-7-days-a-week-beginning-march-11.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/national-park-service-requests-public-input-on-project-to-plant-giant-sequoia-seedlings-in-area-burned-at-high-severity-in-the-2020-castle-fire-within-sequoia-national-park.htm Tue, 22 Feb 2022 09:08:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. February 22, 2022 – The National Park Service (NPS) is seeking public comment on a project to plant seedlings of giant sequoia within groves that sustained a significant loss of trees and their associated seeds and cones during the 2020 Castle Fire in Sequoia National Park. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/national-park-service-requests-public-input-on-project-to-plant-giant-sequoia-seedlings-in-area-burned-at-high-severity-in-the-2020-castle-fire-within-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/pile-burns-planned-in-parks-through-mid-march.htm Tue, 08 Feb 2022 08:50:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. February 08, 2022 – Beginning as early as February 10 through the middle of March, fire personnel at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park will be burning piles of cut wood and other vegetation in the Big Stump area of Grant Grove and the Lodgepole area of Giant Forest. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/pile-burns-planned-in-parks-through-mid-march.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/snow-and-rain-affecting-access-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-during-holiday-week.htm Thu, 23 Dec 2021 09:33:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. December 23, 2021 – National Park Service personnel are preparing for what is typically one of the busiest holiday weeks of the year amid the latest in a series of recent significant precipitation events. With heavy rain at the parks’ lower elevations and heavy snow higher in the mountains, the current weather is expected to continue for several days. Those planning trips to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are advised that road and area closures and restrictions are possible, with or without advance notice. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/snow-and-rain-affecting-access-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-during-holiday-week.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-fire-declared-100-contained.htm Fri, 17 Dec 2021 10:08:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. December 17, 2021 – Fire management staff at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks declared the KNP Complex Fire 100% contained on the afternoon of December 16, 2021. The KNP Complex is currently measured at 88,307 acres, most of which fall within Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. While the fire has not grown in recent weeks, it has continued to show activity in remote areas. Significant precipitation events across the Sierra Nevada have prompted fire managers to declare the fire fully contained at this time. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-fire-declared-100-contained.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/giant-forest-in-sequoia-national-park-to-reopen-on-select-days-beginning-december-11-2021.htm Wed, 08 Dec 2021 11:42:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. December 8, 2021 – The Giant Forest in Sequoia National Park will reopen to the public on a limited schedule beginning on Saturday, December 11. This area has been closed to public access since mid-September due to the KNP Complex Fire, which has burned more than 88,000 acres, mostly within Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/giant-forest-in-sequoia-national-park-to-reopen-on-select-days-beginning-december-11-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/crowds-expected-in-limited-open-areas-of-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-over-thanksgiving-weekend.htm Wed, 24 Nov 2021 06:49:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. November 24, 2021– Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are preparing for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday weekend. Despite the fact that many areas of the parks are closed, either due to the KNP Complex Fire or regular seasonal closures, park staff is expecting high visitation for the duration of the holiday weekend. Trip planning will allow visitors to have better experiences in the parks. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/crowds-expected-in-limited-open-areas-of-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-over-thanksgiving-weekend.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/giant-sequoia-mortality-estimates-released-for-the-2021-knp-complex-and-windy-fire.htm Fri, 19 Nov 2021 06:14:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. November 19, 2021 – Land managers in the Southern Sierra Nevada are reckoning with the effects of large wildfires ignited by a significant lightning event in early September, including the KNP Complex, which burned mostly within Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, and the Windy Fire, which burned mostly on the Sequoia National Forest. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/giant-sequoia-mortality-estimates-released-for-the-2021-knp-complex-and-windy-fire.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-national-park-partial-reopening-november-11-2021.htm Tue, 09 Nov 2021 14:00:00 EST The Foothills area of Sequoia National Park will reopen on Thursday, November 11, 2021, Veterans Day, at 7 a.m. for day use only. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-national-park-partial-reopening-november-11-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/community-meeting-notice-november-9-2021.htm Fri, 05 Nov 2021 13:43:00 EST A community meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 9, 2021 at the Three Rivers Memorial Building at 43490 Sierra Drive in Three Rivers, CA. This meeting will be hosted by the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks Staff to highlight the KNP Complex Recovery process. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/community-meeting-notice-november-9-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-november-2-2021.htm Tue, 02 Nov 2021 04:40:00 EST This will be the LAST update from California Interagency Incident Management Team 12 (CIIMT 12). The KNP Complex is transitioning at 6:00 p.m. this evening to the National Park Service Type 3 Team and the US Forest Service Type 4 Team. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-november-2-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-november-1-2021.htm Mon, 01 Nov 2021 07:13:00 EST On Tuesday, November 2, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. command of the KNP Complex will transition from the California Interagency Incident Management Team 12 (CIIMT 12), Type 2 team back to the host units. A FINAL operation briefing video for the KNP Complex will be provided this evening on Facebook and YouTube. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-november-1-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-31-2021.htm Sun, 31 Oct 2021 19:01:00 EST A Sequoia Protection group is in place along the northwest portion of the fire. Firefighters assigned to this group are working closely with local resource advisors to identify hazardous cedar and fir trees to mark them for removal. Suppression repair work across the fire area is focusing on preventing further damage to the land and provide erosion control. This is done by constructing water bars and covering both handline and dozer line with vegetation. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-31-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-30-2021.htm Sat, 30 Oct 2021 06:55:00 EST Yesterday, a helitack crew was inserted into the Red Meadow Cabin for the second day in a row to remove structure wrap and all other structure protection equipment. This mission was successfully completed and crews were able to assess Quinn and Walkers Cabins. A plan will be implemented over the next few days to remove structure protection equipment for these two cabins. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-30-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-29-2021.htm Fri, 29 Oct 2021 09:23:00 EST National Park Service road crews were able to clear Mineral King Rd enough for light vehicles and ambulances to gain access up to the snow level at about 8,000 feet. Firefighters are fully engaged in areas that were previously inaccessible due to rain, mud, and snow. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-29-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-28-2021.htm Thu, 28 Oct 2021 04:28:00 EST Firefighters on the KNP Complex were able to get back out in areas of the fire perimeter as safety permitted. A fixed-wing aircraft (airplane) surveyed the entire fire area, taking video as well as infrared footage. The flight showed the fire had grown slightly in the northeast area and is moving toward the granite barrier which runs near Kettle Peak, Twin Peaks and Mount Silliman. This granite barrier should halt the fire’s progress and firefighters are monitoring the fire’s activity. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-28-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-27-2021.htm Wed, 27 Oct 2021 03:40:00 EST Firefighters are slowly getting back out on the KNP Complex following the inclement weather. Today division Supervisors began to assess each division around the fire’s perimeter to determine whether it was safe enough to redeploy firefighters. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-27-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-26-2021.htm Tue, 26 Oct 2021 05:02:00 EST Incident Meteorologists said between 2-3 inches of rain fell on all parts of the fire. Some areas at higher elevations saw slightly more rain than others. Firefighters sheltered in place throughout the day Monday and incident supervisors will go into the field today to assess the conditions. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-26-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-correct-misinformation-regarding-hazard-trees-along-the-generals-highway.htm Tue, 26 Oct 2021 03:42:00 EST Information about the preliminary estimate of 10,000 hazard trees located along a portion of the Generals Highway has been reported since it was announced at a community meeting on October 21. These trees have been widely, but incorrectly, reported to be giant sequoias, which has prompted the parks to issue this clarification. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-correct-misinformation-regarding-hazard-trees-along-the-generals-highway.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-25-2021.htm Mon, 25 Oct 2021 03:34:00 EST Containment on the KNP Complex has increased to 63 percent. Firefighters are monitoring the weather and will be adjusting their operations as safety permits. If necessary, crews will shelter in place and re-engage as soon as the weather allows. Firefighters will soon be transitioning to suppression repair work in areas of the fire that are uncontained but have shown no movement and no heat signatures. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-25-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-24-2021.htm Sun, 24 Oct 2021 08:00:00 EST Acres: 88,307 acres Containment: 60% Start Date: September 10, 2021 Cause: Lightning Jurisdiction: Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks; Sequoia National Forest Resources: 587 personnel including: 11 crews, 15 engines, 4 water tenders, 2 dozers and 7 helicopters https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-24-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-23-2021.htm Sat, 23 Oct 2021 07:03:00 EST Acres: 88,307 acres Containment: 60% Start Date: September 10, 2021 Cause: Lightning Jurisdiction: Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks; Sequoia National Forest Resources: 587 personnel including: 11 crews, 13 engines, 16 water tenders, 6 dozers and 7 helicopters https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-23-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-22-2021.htm Fri, 22 Oct 2021 04:24:00 EST Acres: 88,307 acres Containment: 60% Start Date: September 10, 2021 Cause: Lightning Jurisdiction: Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks; Sequoia National Forest Resources: 622 personnel including: 8 crews, 15 engines, 16 water tenders, 6 dozers and 20 helicopters https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-22-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-21-2021.htm Thu, 21 Oct 2021 03:48:00 EST California Incident Management Team 12 assumed command of the KNP Complex yesterday at 1800 under the direction of Incident Commander Mike Nobles. There is still a fair amount of snow over a large portion of the fire area, so no forward fire progression was made yesterday and none is expected today. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-21-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/community-meeting-notice-october-21-2021.htm Wed, 20 Oct 2021 10:26:00 EST A community meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Thursday, October 21, 2021 at the Three Rivers Memorial Building at 43490 Sierra Drive in Three Rivers, CA. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/community-meeting-notice-october-21-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-20-2021.htm Wed, 20 Oct 2021 04:40:00 EST Yesterday, the KNP Complex was quiet thanks to snowfall that covered 60-70% of the fire. Although there is still quite a bit of heat in the fire perimeter, very little to no movement is expected the remainder of the week. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-20-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-19-2021.htm Tue, 19 Oct 2021 04:41:00 EST Snow fell across most of the fire area Sunday night providing a significant slowdown in fire activity Monday. Over two inches still covered the area Monday evening. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-19-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-17-2021.htm Mon, 18 Oct 2021 08:09:00 EST Cooler temperatures will move in late this morning, pushed by strong winds out of the southwest. Ahead of the cold front, an increase in fire activity is expected, with single or group tree torching possible. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-17-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-18-2021.htm Mon, 18 Oct 2021 06:46:00 EST Yesterday, a moderate increase in fire behavior was observed as a cold front progressed into the fire area. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-18-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-16-2021.htm Sat, 16 Oct 2021 02:14:00 EST Fire activity will be moderate today with only creeping and backing activity in most areas. Fire weather forecasters are paying close attention to a low-pressure system which will be settling over the geographical area Sunday bringing clouds, cooler temperatures and southwest winds. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-16-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/kings-canyon-national-park-to-partially-reopen-monday-10-18-21.htm Fri, 15 Oct 2021 12:52:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. October 15, 2021 – Following successful fire suppression operations and a period of favorable weather, the majority of Kings Canyon National Park and some wilderness areas of Sequoia National Park will reopen for public use on Monday, October 18. All developed areas of Sequoia National Park remain closed. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/kings-canyon-national-park-to-partially-reopen-monday-10-18-21.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-north-and-south-zones-update-october-15-2021.htm Fri, 15 Oct 2021 09:33:00 EST Along the western and northern boundaries of the KNP Complex today, crews will perform patrol and mop-up activities, as well as initiating suppression repair by strategically placing equipment such as dozers and chippers along areas needing additional work. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-north-and-south-zones-update-october-15-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-north-and-south-zones-update-october-14-2021.htm Thu, 14 Oct 2021 05:01:00 EST Along the western flank of the KNP Complex today, crews will patrol and mop up along strong containment lines. No challenges are anticipated. Along the eastern and southern flanks, the fire is expected to produce more smoke which will settle in the valleys and canyons. From Montecito Lodge to Stony Creek, containment line construction will progress. Aerial operations will mostly be focused on the area of the fire upslope from the Middle Fork of the Kaweah River. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-north-and-south-zones-update-october-14-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-north-and-south-zones-update-october-13-2021.htm Wed, 13 Oct 2021 05:29:00 EST California Incident Management Team 2 has assumed full command of the KNP Complex as of 1800 Tuesday. California Incident Management Team 1 has been released to support the Los Padres National Forest. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-north-and-south-zones-update-october-13-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-north-and-south-zones-update-october-12-2021.htm Tue, 12 Oct 2021 06:29:00 EST North Zone: Decreased visibility hampered suppression and aircraft response yesterday. Light snow fell at higher elevations and temperatures dropped to 15 degrees in some areas. South Zone: Yesterday, most of the fire area received some amount of precipitation as either rain or snow. Early in the morning, before the wind began, aircraft was utilized to provide protection in anticipation of any additional spread. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-north-and-south-zones-update-october-12-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-north-and-south-zones-update-october-11-2021.htm Mon, 11 Oct 2021 03:15:00 EST Favorable weather has provided crews a welcome reprieve from aggressive fire behavior, and little to no forward progression is expected over the next operational period. Mop up and removal of suppression equipment has commenced as line completion has progressed in the northwest. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-north-and-south-zones-update-october-11-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-north-and-south-zones-update-october-10-2021.htm Mon, 11 Oct 2021 02:18:00 EST Fire crews are taking advantage of the recent rain and favorable weather. KNP Complex North and South Zone Virtual Community Meeting will be held Sunday October 10, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. The meeting will be live streamed to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks Facebook Page, the Sequoia National Forest Facebook Page and the KNP Complex YouTube channel. Please email 2021.knp@firenet.gov with questions prior to the meeting. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-north-and-south-zones-update-october-10-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-9-2021.htm Sat, 09 Oct 2021 03:29:00 EST KNP Complex North and South Zone Virtual Community Meeting will be held Sunday October 10, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. The meeting will be live streamed to Sequoia Kings Canyon National Park Facebook Page and Sequoia National Forest Facebook Page. Please email 2021.knp@firenet.gov with questions prior to the meeting. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-9-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-north-and-south-zones-update-october-8-2021.htm Fri, 08 Oct 2021 04:49:00 EST The four individuals struck by a tree on the southern end of the KNP Complex Thursday afternoon, have all been released from the hospital. One is an employee with CALFIRE and three are with the California Conservation Corps. North Zone: California Interagency Incident Management Team 2 (CIIMT2) assumed command of the North Zone of the KNP Complex yesterday at 6 pm. South Zone: Southwest Area Incident Management Team 2 remains in command of the South Zone of the KNP Complex. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-north-and-south-zones-update-october-8-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-7-special-announcement.htm Fri, 08 Oct 2021 02:55:00 EST At approximately 3:00 pm this afternoon, the KNP Complex received a radio transmission that a tree had fallen, striking four individuals working on the KNP Complex Fire. The patients were all brought to the nearest helispot and were transported by air to area hospitals. All four individuals are receiving medical care. Thankfully, while the injuries are serious, they are in stable condition, and we are grateful. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-7-special-announcement.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-7-2021.htm Thu, 07 Oct 2021 05:24:00 EST California Incident Management Team 2, a type one team, has arrived and preparation has begun to separate the KNP Complex into two geographical zones in order to support suppression efforts across the fire area. This team will spend the day gathering information and take control of the KNP Complex North Zone at 6:00 p.m. tonight, Thursday, October 7, 2021. Southwest Team 2 will remain in command of the KNP Complex South Zone as this transition occurs.  https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-7-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-6-2021.htm Wed, 06 Oct 2021 06:40:00 EST esterday, resources successfully conducted tactical firing operations to keep the fire east of Hartland by utilizing natural and constructed holding features along the northwest perimeter. Structure protection continues in Wilsonia, Grant Grove, Quail Flat, and Weston Meadow. Spot fires north of Generals Highway were actively burning through heavy accumulations of fuels on the forest floor. On the north side, bucket drops were used in areas east and north of the Generals Highway. On the southern end, helicopters supported crews as they constructed hose lays on the west side of Mineral King Road. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-6-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-5-2021.htm Tue, 05 Oct 2021 06:38:00 EST Active fire behavior was observed over most of the fire yesterday, making a run as it became established in Redwood Creek on the northern end. Firefighters provided structure protection for Wilsonia, Hartland, Quail Flat, and Grant Grove along the northwest perimeter. The fire crossed Generals Highway near Redwood Mountain Grove and Stoney Creek, causing firefighters to temporarily move to safer locations. On the southern side of the fire, resources worked along the Mineral King Road to contain the spot fires from Sunday night. Firefighters also provided structure protection in Silver City and the Mineral King area. Aircraft were able to support ground resources with bucket drops on Monday once the smoke cleared enough to safely fly. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-5-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-4-2021.htm Mon, 04 Oct 2021 06:16:00 EST Late last night winds caused a spot fire across Mineral King Rd which prompted an Evacuation Order for Crest, Sierra King, Hammond, and Oak Grove. Yesterday, firefighters continued with indirect suppression tactics to secure control lines on the northwest perimeter. Tactical firing operations are being used to create a continuous line between previously established control lines and existing or natural holding features such as roads and rock scurries. In Redwood Mountain Grove, crews worked in close coordination with natural resource specialists as they progressed with strategic firing operations in the northwest. Structure protection continues in Eshom, Hartland, Silver City and Mineral King areas. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-4-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-3-2021.htm Sun, 03 Oct 2021 08:33:00 EST Firefighters had another successful day because the smoke inversion kept fire activity from becoming extreme. Tactical firing operations continued along the northwest perimeter. Structure protection efforts are on-going for the communities of Eshom and Hartland. Crews on the northern flank progressed through Redwood Mountain Grove conducting firing operations to secure lines and minimize potential future fire impacts. Resources along Generals Highway progressed north to Cabin Creek with successful tactical firing operations as well. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-3-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-2-2021.htm Sat, 02 Oct 2021 04:02:00 EST Yesterday, the northwest flank where the fire crossed the North Fork Kaweah River and the eastern perimeter near Castle Creek Grove experienced the most active fire behavior and new growth. Resources on the northern perimeter initiated successful tactical firing operations in the Redwood Mountain Grove, along the Generals Highway towards Dorst Campground and south of Eshom Point along northwest contingency lines as conditions were favorable. Throughout the night firefighters continued strategic firing operations to secure contingency lines. The fire has burned onto both Kings Canyon National Park and Sequoia National Forest. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-2-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-1-2021.htm Fri, 01 Oct 2021 04:33:00 EST Acres: 51,596 acres (based on infrared flight) Containment: 20% Start Date: September 10, 2021 Cause: Lightning Jurisdiction: Sequoia Kings Canyon National Park Resources: 1,494 personnel including: 26 crews, 61 engines, 40 water tenders, 35 dozers and 12 helicopters https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-october-1-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-30-2021.htm Thu, 30 Sep 2021 08:01:00 EST Yesterday, fire activity was minimal in most areas along the perimeter. Firefighters continued to scout and construct direct line, strengthen and hold existing lines, monitor the perimeter and work on contingency lines. As smoke and conditions allowed, helicopters conducted buckets drops on isolated pockets of heat, slowing fire spread on the western perimeter, in the Pine Grove area, and the east side of Generals Highway. Crews constructed containment line north of Lodgepole, and structure protection groups continued to shore up protections for local communities. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-30-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-29-2021.htm Wed, 29 Sep 2021 02:15:00 EST Smoky conditions on portions of the fire limited visibility on Tuesday. Personnel will use Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) today to assist firefighters with fire movement. This is a coordinated operation with qualified ground personnel. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-29-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-28-2021.htm Tue, 28 Sep 2021 08:18:00 EST Firefighting resources continue to work to increase containment on the KNP Complex. Challenges include drought stressed vegetation, and heavy brush loads on steep slopes. Changes in weather today may allow smoke to lift and allow fire columns to develop. Aircraft is available to support ground resources as weather conditions permit. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-28-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-27-2021.htm Mon, 27 Sep 2021 04:56:00 EST As of 1800 Sunday night Southwest Area Incident Management Team 2 assumed command of the KNP Complex. Fire managers will continue to use full suppression strategies in an effort to protect the surrounding communities impacted, natural resources, and critical infrastructure. Firefighters are using a combination of direct and indirect suppression tactics by constructing containment lines with heavy equipment, hand crews, engines, aircraft, and miscellaneous personnel. Resources look to also utilize natural barriers and seek areas of opportunity to conduct back fire operations to establish containment lines when conditions are favorable. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-27-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-26-2021.htm Sun, 26 Sep 2021 03:01:00 EST The KNP Complex in the Sequoia National Park was originally two fires from lightning occurring on September 9th, discovered and reported on the 10th and designated a complex on September 11th. Incident priorities are the protection of life and property in surrounding communities; protection of the Giant Sequoia Groves; and protection of infrastructure within the Sequoia National Park. There was 2780 acres of growth on the fire in the last 24 hours. The majority of that growth was in the Paradise Ridge area where a burning operation took place. The 8% containment includes an area adjacent to Paradise Ridge, the Giant Sequoia Forest and Lodgepole. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-26-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-25-2021.htm Sat, 25 Sep 2021 03:48:00 EST Additional resources are now in place to facilitate improvements in fuel breaks near Big Baldy Trail, Twin Lakes Trail, Cabin Creek, and a possible burning operation in the area north and west of Ash Mt. CALFIRE dozers and hand crews continue work on the west side of the fire to clean up contingency lines. Structure protection efforts continue in the Cabin Creek, Lodgepole, Silver City and Mineral King areas. California Army National Guard units continue their mopup operations in the Giant Forest. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-25-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-24-2021.htm Fri, 24 Sep 2021 04:54:00 EST The KNP Complex, ignited by lightning on the night of September 9 and reported two days later, continues to grow in Sequoia National Park. Incident priorities are the protection of life and property in surrounding communities; protection of the Giant Sequoia Groves; and protection of infrastructure within the Sequoia National Park. There was 8,522 acres of growth on the fire in the last 24 hours. The majority of that growth was in the Ash Mountain area where a burning operation took place to protect the Park buildings and infrastructure. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-24-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-23-2021.htm Thu, 23 Sep 2021 06:31:00 EST The KNP Complex, ignited by lightning on the night of September 9 and reported two days later, continues to grow in Sequoia National Park. Incident priorities for protection consist of life and property within Sequoia National Park, the Sequoia National Forest and surrounding communities followed by the protection of the Giant Sequoia Groves within the National Park and National Forest. There has been 4,718 acres of growth on the fire in the last 24 hours. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-23-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-22-2021.htm Wed, 22 Sep 2021 09:35:00 EST The KNP Complex, ignited by lightning on the night of September 9, continues to grow in Sequoia National Park. The highest priority for operations is the protection of life and property within Sequoia National Park, the Sequoia National Forest and surrounding communities. The second highest priority is the protection of the Giant Forest followed by park infrastructure. There has been about 1,399 acres of growth on the fire in the last 24 hours. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-22-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/kings-canyon-national-park-closed.htm Tue, 21 Sep 2021 09:36:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. September 21, 2021 – An updated closure order has been issued for Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, adding Cedar Grove and Grant Grove to previous closures. All visitor services and attractions for all of Sequoia and Kings Canyon are now closed. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/kings-canyon-national-park-closed.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-21-2021.htm Tue, 21 Sep 2021 05:27:00 EST The KNP Complex, ignited by lightning on the night of September 9, continues to grow in Sequoia National Park.   The highest priority for operations is the protection of life and infrastructure of the park and the Sequoia National Forest. There was about 1,399 acres of growth on the fire yesterday. Smoke conditions are poor today and are expected to limit air operations for most of the day. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-21-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-20-2021.htm Mon, 20 Sep 2021 06:19:00 EST The KNP Complex, ignited by lightning on the night of September 9, continues to grow in Sequoia National Park. The two fires that comprised the complex, the Paradise Fire and the Colony Fire, are now considered to be a single fire. There was about 1,700 acres of growth on the fire yesterday. Most of it occurred in the Crystal Cave area where the fire got into a “bowl,” a topographic feature, which allowed it to move rapidly uphill. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-20-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/kings-canyon-national-park-now-largely-closed-due-to-knp-complex-fire.htm Mon, 20 Sep 2021 00:25:00 EST Large portions of Kings Canyon National Park have now been closed due to KNP Complex Fire activity, with further closures expected. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/kings-canyon-national-park-now-largely-closed-due-to-knp-complex-fire.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-19-2021.htm Sun, 19 Sep 2021 11:43:00 EST The KNP Complex, ignited by lightning on the night of September 9, continues to grow in Sequoia National Park. The two fires that comprised the complex, the Paradise Fire and the Colony Fire, merged Friday, and going forward will be considered a single fire. There was minimal fire growth on the fire yesterday. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-19-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-18-2021.htm Sat, 18 Sep 2021 04:30:00 EST The KNP Complex, ignited by lightning on the night of September 9, continues to grow in Sequoia National Park. The two fires that comprised the complex, the Paradise Fire and the Colony Fire, merged yesterday, and going forward will be considered a single fire. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-18-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-17-2021.htm Fri, 17 Sep 2021 10:13:00 EST The KNP Complex, ignited by lightning on the night of September 11, continues to grow in Sequoia National Park. The complex is comprised of the Paradise Fire and the Colony Fire. The Paradise Fire is currently measured at 8,203 acres, and the Colony Fire is currently measured at 3,162 acres, for a combined total for the KNP Complex of 11,365 acres, with 0% containment. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-17-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-16-2021.htm Thu, 16 Sep 2021 10:26:00 EST Effective this morning, the Southern Area Blue Type 1 Incident Management Team is managing the KNP Complex under the leadership of Incident Commander Mark Morales. A community meeting is scheduled for September 17, 2021, at 7 p.m. at the Three Rivers Veterans Memorial Building. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-16-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-15-2021.htm Wed, 15 Sep 2021 03:29:00 EST The KNP Complex, ignited by lightning on the night of September 9, grew significantly yesterday. The complex is comprised of the Paradise Fire and the Colony Fire. Sequoia National Park is closed to the public, and employees that reside inside the park have been evacuated. Kings Canyon National Park remains open, but serious air quality impacts are possible. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-september-15-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-9-14-2021.htm Tue, 14 Sep 2021 02:40:00 EST The KNP Complex, ignited by lightning on the night of September 9, continues to grow in Sequoia National Park. The complex is comprised of the Paradise Fire and the Colony Fire. Last night, the Paradise Fire made a downhill run, and crossed the middle fork of the Kaweah River and the Generals Highway. As a result of this, the parks are evacuating employees from the Ash Mountain Headquarters Complex and nearby housing areas. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-9-14-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-for-september-13_2021.htm Mon, 13 Sep 2021 06:19:00 EST The KNP Complex, comprised of the Paradise Fire and the Colony Fire in Sequoia National Park, continued to grow yesterday. The most recent mapping showed the Paradise Fire at 807 acres and the Colony Fire at 230 acres. Extremely smoky conditions under an inversion layer have prevented further mapping thus far today. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/knp-complex-update-for-september-13_2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/wildfires-in-sequoia-national-park-growing-closures-underway.htm Sat, 11 Sep 2021 08:33:00 EST Active wildfires caused by a significant lightning storm on Thursday are growing and have potential to affect park infrastructure and resources. The parks are aggressively attacking these fires to suppress them. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/wildfires-in-sequoia-national-park-growing-closures-underway.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/parks-fight-new-wildfires-ignited-by-lightning-storm.htm Fri, 10 Sep 2021 14:46:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. September 10, 2021 – A significant lightning storm occurred in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks and the surrounding areas on the evening of September 9, 2021. At this time, three new wildfires ignited by the storm have been discovered within park boundaries. The parks are actively suppressing the fires. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/parks-fight-new-wildfires-ignited-by-lightning-storm.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2021-labor-day-weekend-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Wed, 01 Sep 2021 12:30:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. September 1, 2021 – Labor Day weekend is the last holiday weekend of the summer season at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, and the parks are expected to be exceptionally busy. Here are some things to keep in mind as you plan your holiday weekend trip. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2021-labor-day-weekend-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/search-for-matt-thoke-in-sequoia-national-park-ends-his-body-recovered-sunday-august-8.htm Mon, 09 Aug 2021 12:23:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. August 9, 2021 – Trained searchers assisting the Thoke family were able to locate Matt Thoke on Saturday and National Park Service (NPS) Rangers recovered his body on Sunday. Thoke was found in a location that was not visible by air and hardly visible on the ground, not far from where he was last seen, in technical terrain. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/search-for-matt-thoke-in-sequoia-national-park-ends-his-body-recovered-sunday-august-8.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2021-firewood-permits-available-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Mon, 09 Aug 2021 06:58:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. August 9, 2021 – Beginning today, surplus wood in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks is available to the public by permit. Firewood permits are free, but you must obtain your permit before wood can be removed. Permit holders may take up to six cords per family per year. Firewood is available on a first-come first-served basis until the supply is gone. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2021-firewood-permits-available-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/search-for-matthew-thoke-in-sequoia-national-park-moving-to-limited-continuous-mode.htm Mon, 02 Aug 2021 13:10:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. August 2, 2021 – For the past 12 days, an extensive search has been underway in Sequoia National Park for Matthew Thoke, 43, of Newport Beach, CA. The search for Thoke is scaling back to limited continuous mode. This means that while searching will continue, the large number of resources and personnel that have been dedicated to this effort will be reduced. The search will remain in limited continuous mode until Thoke is found. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/search-for-matthew-thoke-in-sequoia-national-park-moving-to-limited-continuous-mode.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/lightning-fires-update-july-30-2021.htm Fri, 30 Jul 2021 09:04:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. July 30, 2021 – Five known fires were ignited by lightning on July 29, 2021. These fires are located within the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks Wilderness. Currently there are no threats to infrastructure, or public safety. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/lightning-fires-update-july-30-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/search-continues-for-hiker-matt-thoke-missing-for-9-days-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Thu, 29 Jul 2021 08:05:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. July 29, 2021 – A search is underway in Sequoia National Park for Matt Thoke, 43, of Newport Beach, CA. Thoke was last seen on Wednesday, July 21 at about 1 p.m. leaving the High Sierra Trail approximately three miles east of the Crescent Meadow trailhead, just east of Panther Creek. Anyone who may have been in this area anytime after July 21 is urged to contact Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks Dispatch at 888-677-2746 or SEKI_Dispatch@nps.gov. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/search-continues-for-hiker-matt-thoke-missing-for-9-days-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/the-national-park-service-seeks-public-comment-on-accessibility-plan-for-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Mon, 26 Jul 2021 09:11:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. July 26, 2021 – The National Park Service (NPS) is soliciting comment on a Draft Accessibility Self Evaluation and Transition Plan (SETP) for Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. This Draft SETP identifies key visitor experiences at the parks and the existing barriers to accessing these experiences for people with disabilities. The plan provides recommendations for how to remove barriers, including specific actions, example site plans, and anticipated time frames for implementation. A 33-day comment period opens today with a virtual public meeting taking place on August 10. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/the-national-park-service-seeks-public-comment-on-accessibility-plan-for-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/giant-sequoia-lands-coalition-formed-to-protect-iconic-trees-from-threats-of-climate-change-and-catastrophic-wildfire.htm Mon, 19 Jul 2021 08:00:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, California July 19, 2021– As fire once again sweeps through the American West, an interagency report formally released today estimates that 7,500 to 10,600 large giant sequoias were killed in last year’s Castle Fire. This represents 10-14% of large sequoias in the world. Today, the agencies united by stewardship of giant sequoias are officially coming together in partnership, under the new Giant Sequoia Lands Coalition, to save the remaining 90%. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/giant-sequoia-lands-coalition-formed-to-protect-iconic-trees-from-threats-of-climate-change-and-catastrophic-wildfire.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/lightning-ignites-wildfires-in-kings-canyon-national-park-wilderness.htm Wed, 14 Jul 2021 04:58:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. July 13, 2021 – Recent lightning strikes in the Sierra Nevada resulted in two new wildfires in the wilderness of Kings Canyon National Park. The Lost Fire, spotted on July 10, is currently mapped at 92 acres, and the Sugar Fire, spotted on July 11, is currently mapped at one-quarter acre. Neither fire currently poses any risks to life or property, and there are no closures due to the fires at this time. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/lightning-ignites-wildfires-in-kings-canyon-national-park-wilderness.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/preparing-for-fourth-of-july-weekend-at-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Wed, 30 Jun 2021 06:26:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. June 30, 2021– Summer is in full swing at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Fourth of July weekend is expected to be extremely busy, and visitors are strongly encouraged to plan ahead to ensure an enjoyable and safe holiday weekend. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/preparing-for-fourth-of-july-weekend-at-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-kings-canyon-national-parks-ban-all-campfires-july-1-2021.htm Mon, 28 Jun 2021 11:30:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. June 28, 2021 – Due to extreme fire danger, record setting temperatures, drought, and commitment of firefighting resources both regionally and nationally, the parks are increasing fire restrictions to Stage 3 – their highest level. Effective at 12:00 p.m. on July 1, 2021, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are enacting a parks-wide campfire and smoking ban. This includes all campgrounds, picnic and day-use areas, and wilderness locations inside the parks. There are no exceptions to this change. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-kings-canyon-national-parks-ban-all-campfires-july-1-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-complete-on-2021-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn.htm Wed, 09 Jun 2021 11:45:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 9, 2021 – As of this afternoon, ignitions are complete on the 2021 Ash Mountain Prescribed Burn in Sequoia National Park. In all, approximately 28 acres between the Sequoia National Park entrance station and the Foothills Visitor Center, one mile inside the park, and Hospital Rock Picnic Area were treated. Nearly twelve of those acres in the foothills were treated manually through the grazing of the parks’ stock animals or through weed eating. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-complete-on-2021-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-started-on-2021-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Sun, 06 Jun 2021 03:51:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 6, 2021 – Following a successful test burn and with concurrence from fire management staff and parks’ leadership, the 2021 Ash Mountain Prescribed Burn has started. Ignitions will continue each day through June 9, 2021 https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-started-on-2021-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2021-stage-2-fire-restrictions-in-effect-june-4.htm Thu, 03 Jun 2021 03:00:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. June 3, 2021– Fire restrictions will be in effect starting June 4 at 12:00 p.m. in the lower-elevation areas of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks to reduce the risk of unwanted human-caused wildfires in order to protect people, resources, and facilities during the peak of the fire year. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2021-stage-2-fire-restrictions-in-effect-june-4.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/high-elevation-misstep-results-in-fatality-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Tue, 01 Jun 2021 13:26:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. June 1, 2021 – A Memorial Day hike ended with a mountaineering accident yesterday, when a 56-year-old man from San Jose, CA, one member of a three-person hiking group, fell approximately 500 feet from the summit ridge of Mount Russell, on the eastern boundary of Sequoia National Park. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/high-elevation-misstep-results-in-fatality-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2021-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn-scheduled-june-6-june-9.htm Tue, 01 Jun 2021 04:10:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 1, 2021 – After a one-year hiatus, fire managers with Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks have scheduled the annual Ash Mountain Prescribed Burn in the foothills of Sequoia National Park, near the parks’ headquarters and entrance station along the main road, Generals Highway. Ignitions are planned to begin on June 6, 2021 and continue through June 9, 2021. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2021-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn-scheduled-june-6-june-9.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/wilderness-permit-quota-season-begins-friday-may-28.htm Thu, 27 May 2021 06:09:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. May 27, 2021 – During the high-visitation summer season, there is a daily limit on the number of people that may enter the wilderness of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks from any given trailhead for overnight use. The wilderness permit quota season begins Friday, May 28, and will continue through September 18. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/wilderness-permit-quota-season-begins-friday-may-28.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2021-memorial-day-weekend-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Wed, 26 May 2021 09:50:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. May 26, 2021 – Memorial Day weekend is considered the summer “kick-off” for Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, and the parks are expected to be exceptionally busy. Trip planning is essential for a safe and enjoyable visit. Here are some things to keep in mind as you plan your holiday weekend trip. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2021-memorial-day-weekend-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/missing-hiker-found-alive-in-mount-whitney-area.htm Sun, 23 May 2021 15:34:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. May 23, 2021 – A high-elevation search and rescue operation ended happily this evening when ground searchers successfully located missing hiker Edward Lee Alderman in the vicinity of Timberline Lake, several miles west of the summit of Mount Whitney. Mr. Alderman is reported to be alert, despite injuries, fatigue, and exposure to sub-freezing temperatures. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/missing-hiker-found-alive-in-mount-whitney-area.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/search-underway-for-texas-man-last-seen-at-summit-of-mount-whitney.htm Sat, 22 May 2021 14:25:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. May 22, 2021 – A search is underway in the Mount Whitney area for Edward Lee Alderman, 33, of Austin Texas. Mr. Alderman set out from Whitney Portal to summit Mount Whitney in the early morning hours on Thursday, May 20. The last confirmed sighting of Mr. Alderman occurred at approximately 4 p.m. that afternoon, departing the summit of Mount Whitney. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/search-underway-for-texas-man-last-seen-at-summit-of-mount-whitney.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/areas-in-sequoia-national-park-still-smoldering-from-2020-wildfires.htm Wed, 05 May 2021 04:11:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. May 5, 2021 – Recently, National Park Service scientists and fire crews were surveying the effects from the 2020 Castle Fire in Sequoia National Park, when they observed a still smoldering and smoking giant sequoia tree that appears to be caused from last year’s fire. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/areas-in-sequoia-national-park-still-smoldering-from-2020-wildfires.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/national-park-service-seeks-public-input-on-project-to-rehabilitate-mineral-king-road-within-sequoia-national-park.htm Tue, 20 Apr 2021 13:00:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, California April 20, 2021– The National Park Service (NPS) is seeking public comment on a project to rehabilitate just over 15 miles of Mineral King Road within Sequoia National Park. The existing surface of Mineral King Road is in poor condition, and inadequate drainage along the roadway is causing erosion and is undermining the structural integrity of the road base. The NPS anticipates that construction would begin no sooner than 2023 and would occur over the course of several years. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/national-park-service-seeks-public-input-on-project-to-rehabilitate-mineral-king-road-within-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/orgs/1207/04-20-2021-ook.htm Tue, 20 Apr 2021 08:48:00 EST Students nationwide will be able to experience national parks in new and exciting ways, thanks to the National Park Foundation’s (NPF) Open OutDoors for Kids Hybrid Learning grant program. NPF is awarding grants to 32 National Park Service (NPS) sites and their partners to implement or enhance innovative distance learning programs to better serve educators and students, especially in under-resourced communities. https://www.nps.gov/orgs/1207/04-20-2021-ook.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/camping-reservations-required-for-2021-summer-season-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Mon, 29 Mar 2021 11:05:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. March 29, 2021 – Preparations are underway to reopen campgrounds in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks for the 2021 summer season. In 2020, many campgrounds remained closed, or opened with limited capacity, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For the 2021 summer season, campgrounds will require advance reservations through www.recreation.gov, which can be made up to one month in advance. This change is intended to ensure proper COVID-19 mitigations and allow campers to plan with more accurate information about campsite availability. To cover online processing costs, fees for campgrounds newly added to www.recreation.gov will increase to $22 per night, an average increase of $4 from previous years. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/camping-reservations-required-for-2021-summer-season-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-hosted-1-2-million-visitors-in-2020-35-decrease-compared-to-2019.htm Wed, 03 Mar 2021 09:56:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, California March 3, 2021– Outdoor experiences provided refuge from the pandemic for 1.2 million visitors to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks in 2020. The number represents a 35% decrease from the previous year due to temporary park closures and restrictions implemented in response to the coronavirus pandemic and late season fires. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-hosted-1-2-million-visitors-in-2020-35-decrease-compared-to-2019.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-release-2020-fire-year-summary-and-2021-prescribed-burn-and-mechanical-treatment-plans.htm Thu, 25 Feb 2021 04:01:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. February 25, 2021 – Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are releasing their 2020 fire year summary and 2021 prescribed burn and mechanical treatment plans to the public. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-release-2020-fire-year-summary-and-2021-prescribed-burn-and-mechanical-treatment-plans.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/accessibility-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-short-film-series-released-online.htm Sat, 20 Feb 2021 10:03:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. February 20, 2021 – Across the nation, National Park Service sites are working to improve access for people with disabilities. In recent years, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks have modified many trails, features, and facilities to make them more accessible and comfortable for all visitors. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/accessibility-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-short-film-series-released-online.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/incident-involving-firearm-investigated-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Fri, 19 Feb 2021 09:57:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, California February 19, 2021 – This morning Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks officers responded to a report of an individual brandishing a firearm and threatening visitors on the Big Trees Trail in the Giant Forest area of Sequoia National Park, prompting a temporary closure of the Generals Highway. At approximately 12:30 p.m. the park reopened, after being notified by Tulare County Sheriff's Office that the individual had been apprehended outside the park. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/incident-involving-firearm-investigated-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/warm-weather-means-little-snow-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-this-mlk-holiday-weekend-monday-january-18-fee-free-day.htm Fri, 15 Jan 2021 09:44:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. January 15, 2021 – Due to a lack of recent precipitation and unseasonably warm temperatures, holiday weekend visitors to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks should expect to find little snow, if any. While this expands some recreational opportunities for those wishing to use hiking trails or picnic areas, it may come as a disappointment to those seeking a winter weather experience. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/warm-weather-means-little-snow-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-this-mlk-holiday-weekend-monday-january-18-fee-free-day.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2020-fire-restrictions-removed-in-sequoia-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Tue, 22 Dec 2020 01:48:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. December 22, 2020 – Effective at 6:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 23, 2020, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks will no longer be in fire restrictions. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2020-fire-restrictions-removed-in-sequoia-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/wilderness-permit-reservations-for-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-moving-to-recreation-gov.htm Tue, 01 Dec 2020 07:31:00 EST Beginning in 2021, overnight visitors to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks wilderness areas will be able to make their quota season wilderness permit reservations using the website Recreation.gov. This will replace the old system, by which reservations were submitted by email and processed manually. Recreation.gov provides trip planning and reservation services for public lands nationwide, and using it for wilderness permit issuance will bring the parks into alignment with the adjacent Inyo National Forest.   https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/wilderness-permit-reservations-for-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-moving-to-recreation-gov.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/visitors-to-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-should-prepare-for-a-busy-thanksgiving-weekend.htm Tue, 24 Nov 2020 11:28:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. November 25, 2020 – Thanksgiving brings a late-season busy holiday weekend in the parks, and trip planning is important for a safe and enjoyable visit. Visitors should anticipate that tire chain restrictions could go into effect at any time. As on any holiday weekend, expect longer waiting periods at entrance stations, and crowded conditions in popular parking areas. Visitors are encouraged to call 559-565-3341 (dial 1, then 1) for current road and weather conditions prior to driving up to the parks. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/visitors-to-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-should-prepare-for-a-busy-thanksgiving-weekend.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/autumn-weather-allows-parks-to-lower-to-stage-2-fire-restrictions-in-2020.htm Wed, 04 Nov 2020 03:02:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. November 4, 2020– Changes in long-term weather patterns and transition of seasons, along with the decrease in overall visitation has reduced the threat of unwanted human-caused fires in higher elevation areas of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks allowing the fire managers to reduce fire restrictions. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/autumn-weather-allows-parks-to-lower-to-stage-2-fire-restrictions-in-2020.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/wilderness-closures-in-sequoia-national-park-reduced-in-size.htm Mon, 02 Nov 2020 14:00:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. November 2, 2020 – With containment increasing across area fires, the wilderness closures in Sequoia National Park are being reduced in size to allow for more access. The SQF Complex no longer poses an imminent threat to the Mineral King valley or the Middle Fork of the Kaweah River drainage. The Rattlesnake Fire growth has not shown new growth to the north and east and has slowed overall to the south and west. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/wilderness-closures-in-sequoia-national-park-reduced-in-size.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-national-park-to-reopen-thursday-october-1.htm Wed, 30 Sep 2020 13:16:00 EST Sequoia National Park will reopen on Thursday, October 1 as the evacuation warning related to the SQF Complex has been lifted for most of Three Rivers, CA. This reopening includes the Generals Highway from the Ash Mountain entrance station into Sequoia National Park to Highway 180 in Kings Canyon, and national park areas and trails along this route, including the Giant Forest. Exceptions are the Mineral King area and some wilderness lands, which will remain closed due to wildfire concerns, and facilities that are closed due to the pandemic. Sequoia National Forest also remains closed. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-national-park-to-reopen-thursday-october-1.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/wilderness-fires-remain-active-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Thu, 24 Sep 2020 07:21:00 EST Late in August, southern California experienced a surge in lightning activity and ground strikes, resulting in multiple fires across the region. Two of those resulting strikes continue to burn within Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks designated wilderness. The Rattlesnake Fire began on August 16 and is now 4,070 acres. The Moraine Fire started August 21 and is 668 acres with 70% containment. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/wilderness-fires-remain-active-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/kings-canyon-national-park-to-reopen-wednesday-september-23-as-air-quality-improves.htm Tue, 22 Sep 2020 08:27:00 EST Kings Canyon National Park will reopen to all visitors on Wednesday, September 23 as air quality improves. This includes the park entrance station on Highway 180 into Kings Canyon, Kings Canyon Visitor Center, trails, facilities and parking areas. Sequoia National Park and Sequoia National Forest remain closed. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/kings-canyon-national-park-to-reopen-wednesday-september-23-as-air-quality-improves.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/wildfires-continue-to-burn-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Sun, 20 Sep 2020 02:26:00 EST Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks continue to have two active fires burning in designated wilderness with no threats to people or property. The Rattlesnake and Moraine Fires were both caused by lighting and continue to show slow and minor fire growth. The Rattlesnake Fire is 2,078 acres and the Moraine Fire is 575 acres. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/wildfires-continue-to-burn-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/kings-canyon-national-park-to-close-due-to-significant-smoke-impacts-and-hazardous-air-quality.htm Thu, 17 Sep 2020 12:01:00 EST Kings Canyon National Park announces that the park will close to all visitors due to significant smoke impacts and hazardous air quality throughout the park. The park entrance station, facilities and parking lots will close beginning at 5:00 p.m. tonight, Thursday, September 17, 2020. Sequoia National Park closed on Tuesday, September 15. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/kings-canyon-national-park-to-close-due-to-significant-smoke-impacts-and-hazardous-air-quality.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-national-park-closes-in-response-to-castle-fire.htm Mon, 14 Sep 2020 15:11:00 EST Sequoia National Park is implementing a full park closure at 6 am on September 15 in response to the Castle Fire on the SQF Complex. Many park staff have been evacuated from the area and for visitor and resource protection, park managers have decided to close all entrances to Sequoia National Park. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-national-park-closes-in-response-to-castle-fire.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-national-park-implements-closure-of-generals-highway.htm Sun, 13 Sep 2020 15:35:00 EST ghway from Highway 198 in Three Rivers to the Giant Forest Museum starting at 6 am on Monday, September 14, 2020. The immediate partial park closure is in direct relation to the SQF Complex currently burning south and west of the park. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-national-park-implements-closure-of-generals-highway.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/seki.htm Fri, 11 Sep 2020 00:31:00 EST The National Park Service has selected Clay Jordan to serve as the superintendent of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks starting November 8, 2020. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/seki.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/fires-continue-to-burn-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-wilderness.htm Wed, 09 Sep 2020 10:51:00 EST Two fires are being monitored in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks within the designated wilderness. Both fires are naturally caused lightning strikes. The fires are slow-growing and display creeping and smoldering behavior deep within the wilderness boundaries, offering no threat to human safety or loss of property. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/fires-continue-to-burn-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-wilderness.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-kings-canyon-national-park-enact-parks-wide-campfire-ban.htm Mon, 07 Sep 2020 13:46:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. September 7, 2020 – Due to extreme fire danger, record setting temperatures, commitment of firefighting resources across the area and state, and national and geographical preparedness levels at PL-5, their highest levels, the parks are increasing fire restrictions. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-kings-canyon-national-park-enact-parks-wide-campfire-ban.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/aircraft-crash-in-sequoia-national-park-2020.htm Sat, 05 Sep 2020 03:52:00 EST An overdue aircraft was reported Saturday morning to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks dispatch center, and an aircraft crash was subsequently located in the park. The investigation is under the jurisdiction of National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/aircraft-crash-in-sequoia-national-park-2020.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/august-2020-weeknight-closures-cancelled.htm Fri, 14 Aug 2020 04:11:00 EST Work schedule modifications have allowed for the necessary work to get done without disrupting park and forest visitors with weeknight road closures. See updated schedule. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/august-2020-weeknight-closures-cancelled.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2020-road-construction-night-closures.htm Thu, 13 Aug 2020 01:55:00 EST The 16-mile Generals Highway Rehabilitation Project that has been underway during the last two construction seasons is expected to be finalized later this year, but critical work remains that requires temporary, weeknight road closures. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2020-road-construction-night-closures.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/temporary-big-stump-picnic-area-closures-begin-monday-8-10.htm Fri, 07 Aug 2020 10:08:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. August 7, 2020 – Temporary weekday closures of Big Stump Picnic Area in the Grant Grove area of Kings Canyon National Park will begin Monday, August 10 in connection with a trail improvement project. This project will modify the existing Big Stump Trail to meet accessibility standards, adding about 1,400 feet of gently sloping and firm-packed trail. Big Stump Trail begins at Big Stump Picnic Area and drops over 150 vertical feet into Big Stump Basin where visitors can see evidence of historic logging of giant sequoias. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/temporary-big-stump-picnic-area-closures-begin-monday-8-10.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/condors-land-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Tue, 07 Jul 2020 22:20:00 EST Recently reintroduced endangered California condors continue to reoccupy parts of their historic range, including the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California and adjacent foothills. Condors were seen atop Moro Rock, a popular hiking destination in Sequoia National Park, in late May. They are back to the towering trees and cliffs of the parks after being absent for nearly 50 years. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/condors-land-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/seki_initiatingsecondphase_increased_access.htm Thu, 25 Jun 2020 09:35:00 EST Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are increasing recreational access to include three campgrounds and limited concession services following guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and state and local public health authorities. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/seki_initiatingsecondphase_increased_access.htm https://www.nps.gov/orgs/1180/nps-california-wildfire-utility-collaboration.htm Thu, 25 Jun 2020 08:23:00 EST The National Park Service (NPS) has issued permits to Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) and Southern California Edison (SCE) to perform wildfire prevention activities in 12 California national park units through a new public-private partnership that focuses on protecting park resources and streamlining communication between the NPS and utilities. https://www.nps.gov/orgs/1180/nps-california-wildfire-utility-collaboration.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2020-stage-2-fire-restrictions-in-effect-june-4-2020.htm Wed, 03 Jun 2020 11:30:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. June 3, 2020– Fire restrictions are being implemented in the lower-elevation areas of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks to reduce the risk of wildfire in order to protect people, public lands, resources, and facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2020-stage-2-fire-restrictions-in-effect-june-4-2020.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/phasedincrease_6-4-20.htm Sat, 30 May 2020 07:34:00 EST Following guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and state and local public health authorities, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are increasing recreational access to include roads, trails, restrooms, and picnic areas. The parks have been closed to visitors since March 25, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/phasedincrease_6-4-20.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-complete-for-2020-cedar-central-prescribed-burn.htm Tue, 26 May 2020 05:16:00 EST KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Calif. May 26, 2020 – Fire staff completed ignitions on the last segment of the Cedar Central Prescribed Burn unit yesterday evening, for a total of 245 acres treated since Sunday. With ignitions complete, firefighters will continue to patrol the area as vegetation inside the unit self-extinguishes. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-complete-for-2020-cedar-central-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-have-started-for-2020-cedar-central-prescribed-burn.htm Sun, 24 May 2020 07:28:00 EST KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Calif. May 24, 2020 – This morning there was a successful test fire on the Cedar Central Prescribed Burn. After observations, the burn boss and fire management staff, made the decision to continue with the prescribed burn in Kings Canyon National Park. Three to four days of ignitions are planned. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-have-started-for-2020-cedar-central-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2020-cedar-central-prescribed-burn-scheduled-in-cedar-grove.htm Tue, 12 May 2020 06:45:00 EST KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Calif. May 12, 2020 – Fire managers from Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks have scheduled the first prescribed burn of 2020 in the Cedar Grove area of Kings Canyon National Park to occur between now and the end of May. This is the second phase of the Cedar Central Prescribed Burn that was started in June 2019 in which 218-acres of the 463-acre total project were completed. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2020-cedar-central-prescribed-burn-scheduled-in-cedar-grove.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-are-further-modifying-operations-to-implement-local-health-guidance.htm Wed, 25 Mar 2020 04:15:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. March 25, 2020 – Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks is announcing additional modifications to operations in response to guidance from the Tulare County Department of Public Health. The health and safety of our visitors, employees, volunteers, and partners is our number one priority. The National Park Service is working servicewide with federal, state, and local authorities to closely monitor the COVID-19 pandemic. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-are-further-modifying-operations-to-implement-local-health-guidance.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-is-modifying-operations-to-implement-latest-health-guidance-update-3-19-20.htm Thu, 19 Mar 2020 13:10:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. March 19, 2020 – Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks continue to modify operations in order to implement the latest guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), and local and state authorities to promote social distancing. As of Friday, March 20 at noon, all campgrounds typically open this time of year will close until further notice. Also on Friday, March 20 at 5 p.m. Delaware North Companies (DNC) will close markets in Lodgepole and Grant Grove that had previously remained open. As of Tuesday, March 17, Foothills and Kings Canyon visitor centers, Giant Forest Museum and the parks’ Wilderness Office had closed. Pear Lake Ski Hut which is managed by park partner Sequoia Parks Conservancy closed Wednesday, March 18. All lodging and dining facilities managed by DNC were closed on Wednesday, March 18 through April 1. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-is-modifying-operations-to-implement-latest-health-guidance-update-3-19-20.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-is-modifying-operations-to-implement-latest-health-guidance.htm Tue, 17 Mar 2020 09:52:00 EST Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are announcing modifications to operations to implement the latest guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), and local and state authorities to promote social distancing. As of Tuesday, March 17, Foothills and Kings Canyon visitor centers, Giant Forest Museum and the parks’ Wilderness Office are closed until further notice. Pear Lake Ski Hut which is managed by our park partner Sequoia Parks Conservancy will be closing effective Wednesday, March 18. All lodging and dining facilities managed by Delaware North Companies (DNC) will close effective Wednesday, March 18 through April 1. Markets in Lodgepole and Grant Grove also managed by DNC will remain open with shortened hours of noon-5 p.m. Where it is possible to adhere to the latest health guidance, outdoor spaces including trails and campgrounds will remain open to provide healthy options for the public. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-is-modifying-operations-to-implement-latest-health-guidance.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-release-2019-fire-year-summary-and-2020-prescribed-burn-and-mechanical-treatment-plans.htm Sat, 25 Jan 2020 04:05:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. January 25, 20202 – Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are releasing their 2019 fire year summary and 2020 prescribed burn and mechanical treatment plans to the public. Mechanical fuels treatments, prescribed burns, lightning-caused wildfires managed for multiple objectives, one being full suppression, all play a role in protecting these highly valued resources and assets. The use of a variety of wildland fire management tools makes wildfire management efforts much more safe and cost effective. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-release-2019-fire-year-summary-and-2020-prescribed-burn-and-mechanical-treatment-plans.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/firefighters-respond-to-structure-fire-in-kings-canyon-national-park.htm Sat, 11 Jan 2020 09:06:00 EST KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Calif. January 11, 2020 – Yesterday morning, January 10, 2020, structural firefighters responded to a fully engulfed non-residential multi-use building in the Grant Grove Village inside Kings Canyon National Park. The fire is extinguished and the cause is under investigation. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/firefighters-respond-to-structure-fire-in-kings-canyon-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/what-to-know-before-visiting-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-thanksgiving-weekend-2019.htm Mon, 25 Nov 2019 09:47:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. November 25, 2019 – A winter storm projected for this week means trip planning prior to visiting will be critical for a safe and enjoyable visit to Sequoia and Kings Canyon. The road between the parks is expected to close Tuesday, November 26 at 4 p.m. in preparation for the storm which could bring up to four feet of snow in the Giant Forest and Grant Grove areas. Tire chain restrictions will be in place, with longer waiting periods expected at entrance stations, and possible road closures due to snow accumulation. Visitors are encouraged to call 559-565-3341 (dial 1, then 1) for current road and weather conditions prior to driving up to the parks. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/what-to-know-before-visiting-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-thanksgiving-weekend-2019.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/mtdarwin.htm Thu, 07 Nov 2019 03:43:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, California (November 7, 2019)–While conducting a ground search in the area along the route of Mt. Darwin, searchers located a deceased individual that matched the description of missing hiker Alan Stringer (40). https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/mtdarwin.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/join-us-in-sequoia-national-park-this-veterans-day-for-the-colonel-charles-young-memorial-highway-dedication.htm Wed, 30 Oct 2019 07:36:00 EST This Veteran’s Day join the National Park Service (NPS), the Colonel Charles Young Foundation and the Sequoia Parks Conservancy for a fun event commemorating the legacy of Colonel Charles Young. The portion of State Highway 198 from Salt Creek Road to the Sequoia National Park Entrance in Tulare County has been renamed “Colonel Charles Young Memorial Highway” through state legislation, with new signs in the process of being installed. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/join-us-in-sequoia-national-park-this-veterans-day-for-the-colonel-charles-young-memorial-highway-dedication.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/mississippi-woman-found-alive-and-in-stable-condition.htm Mon, 28 Oct 2019 10:56:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. October 28, 2019 – Mary Joanna Gomez from Mississippi was found alive and in stable condition by National Park Service personnel on the afternoon of October 28th and has been in contact with her family and will be reunited with them shortly. She was found off trail about 3.5 miles over rocky and steep terrain from her vehicle. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/mississippi-woman-found-alive-and-in-stable-condition.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/search-continues-for-missing-mississippi-woman-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Mon, 28 Oct 2019 10:53:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. October 28, 2019 – The search for missing Mary Joanna Gomez, 56-year-old from Mississippi, continues with growing search teams and limited clues. Mrs. Gomez has been on assignment in the Bay Area as a traveling nurse, and arrived in Kings Canyon National Park on Wednesday, October 23rd on her day off. Her last communication with family was on October 24th when she text messaged her daughter with photos taken in different areas of Kings Canyon. She was expected back to work on October 25th, missed her shift, and her family reported her missing to the San Francisco Police Department. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/search-continues-for-missing-mississippi-woman-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/testing-along-mineral-king-road-november-4-9-2019-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Thu, 10 Oct 2019 10:43:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. October 10, 2019 – The National Park Service (NPS) has approved subsurface composition tests of five locations along a 15.29-mile section of the Mineral King Road in Sequoia National Park. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is gathering needed information regarding depth of bedrock in key locations along the road. Public access to Mineral King closes for the season on October 30, 2019, and this work will primarily affect local residents during these six days. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/testing-along-mineral-king-road-november-4-9-2019-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/fall-ignitions-complete-for-sherman-prescribed-burn.htm Fri, 04 Oct 2019 16:16:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. October 4, 2019 – Fire staff completed ignitions on the last segment of the Sherman Prescribed Burn unit today, with 244 acres treated since Wednesday. The other segments of this prescribed burn were treated in July 2019, and this final segment brings the project to a total acreage of 489. Firefighters will continue to patrol the area as vegetation inside the unit consumes itself, and ultimately self-extinguishes, likely with the arrival of rain or snow in the area. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/fall-ignitions-complete-for-sherman-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-begun-on-final-segment-of-the-sherman-prescribed-burn.htm Wed, 02 Oct 2019 09:37:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. October 2, 2019 – Following a successful test burn this morning and a determination by the burn boss and fire management staff, ignitions have begun on the final segment of the Sherman Prescribed Burn in Sequoia National Park. Three to four days of ignitions are planned. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-begun-on-final-segment-of-the-sherman-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/parks-plan-fall-prescribed-burns.htm Thu, 26 Sep 2019 06:11:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. September 26, 2019 – As cooler temperatures arrive in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, fire management staff are preparing for fall prescribed burns. The parks plan to complete three projects this fall, including a final segment of the Sherman Prescribed Burn in the Giant Forest area, the Park Ridge Prescribed Burn in the Grant Grove area, and the final segments of the Cedar Central Prescribed Burn in the Cedar Grove area. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/parks-plan-fall-prescribed-burns.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/mark-your-calendars-for-national-public-lands-day-on-9-28.htm Mon, 16 Sep 2019 10:33:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. September 16, 2019 – On September 28, 2019, more than 150,000 volunteers across the country will join in trail maintenance and planting projects, trash pick-ups, and other activities aimed at restoring and caring for our public lands to celebrate the 26th annual National Public Lands Day (NPLD). Organized each year by the National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF), National Public Lands Day is the nation’s largest single-day volunteer effort for public lands. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/mark-your-calendars-for-national-public-lands-day-on-9-28.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2019-firewood-permits-available-in-kings-canyon-national-park-beginning-9-5.htm Wed, 04 Sep 2019 07:24:00 EST Surplus wood in Kings Canyon National Park will be made available by permit to the public beginning tomorrow, September 5, 2019. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2019-firewood-permits-available-in-kings-canyon-national-park-beginning-9-5.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2019-firewood-permits-available-in-sequoia-national-park-beginning-8-29.htm Wed, 28 Aug 2019 07:52:00 EST Surplus wood in Sequoia National Park will be made available by permit to the public beginning today. Firewood permits are free, and must be obtained before wood can be removed. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2019-firewood-permits-available-in-sequoia-national-park-beginning-8-29.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-debut-new-mobile-app.htm Wed, 28 Aug 2019 07:42:00 EST The NPS Sequoia & Kings Canyon app is now available from the Apple App Store, and an Android version will be available soon. This free, official mobile app provides a new way to explore the parks, in person or from afar. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-debut-new-mobile-app.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/explore-the-soundscapes-of-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Thu, 08 Aug 2019 07:18:00 EST A new way to experience the great outdoors is here for Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. An innovative project dedicated to capturing the sounds of the parks, at different elevations and ecosystems, has been completed and is now making them accessible to those near and far. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/explore-the-soundscapes-of-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/stage-1-fire-restrictions-in-effect-august-5-2019.htm Thu, 01 Aug 2019 12:46:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. August 1, 2019– Due to decreasing fuel moistures, increase in temperatures, and increased fuel loading due to late season rains in the Kaweah River drainage, along with current moderate-high fire danger and entering into the hottest part of the year, fire danger is even more of a concern. Therefore, Stage 1 fire restrictions will be effective at noon on August 5, 2019. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/stage-1-fire-restrictions-in-effect-august-5-2019.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/dates-selected-for-sherman-prescribed-burn.htm Thu, 04 Jul 2019 04:12:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. July 3, 2019 – Following consultations with park leadership and the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District, a start date has been established for the upcoming Sherman Prescribed Burn in the Giant Forest area of Sequoia National Park. Ignitions are scheduled to begin on the morning of Monday, July 8, and continue for as long as five days, depending upon conditions. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/dates-selected-for-sherman-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sherman-prescribed-burn-planned-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Sun, 30 Jun 2019 07:25:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 30, 2019 – Beginning after Fourth of July weekend, park fire crews will perform ignitions on a 245-acre prescribed burn in the Giant Forest of Sequoia National Park. The burn will involve 4-5 days of ignitions, which will be scheduled in July as conditions allow. Access to the General Sherman Tree will not be limited by the burn. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sherman-prescribed-burn-planned-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/road-construction-begins-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-july-8-2019.htm Wed, 26 Jun 2019 09:23:00 EST Road construction is scheduled to begin on a portion of the Generals Highway within and between Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks on July 8, 2019. This 16-mile Generals Highway Rehabilitation Project will take place over the next 2 years during the construction seasons. In year one, the expected scope consists of drainage improvements and culvert replacements. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/road-construction-begins-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-july-8-2019.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-complete-on-2019-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn.htm Sun, 23 Jun 2019 12:35:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 23, 2019 – As of this afternoon, ignitions are complete on the Ash Mountain Prescribed Burn in Sequoia National Park. Approximately 28 acres have been treated with prescribed fire, and another 12 acres are being treated mechanically (e.g., weed whipping, grazing pack stock). https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-complete-on-2019-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/news-release-ignitions-begun-on-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Thu, 20 Jun 2019 12:08:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 20, 2019 – As of this morning, ignitions have begun on the 2019 Ash Mountain Prescribed Burn, located near the entrance to Sequoia National Park. Ignitions will continue through Sunday, June 23. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/news-release-ignitions-begun-on-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/body-of-missing-hiker-found-on-north-slope-of-mt-whitney-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Wed, 19 Jun 2019 09:48:00 EST The body of missing hiker Ling Dao was located Tuesday afternoon on the north side of Mt. Whitney in Sequoia National Park and transported to the Ash Mountain Helibase in Sequoia National Park, where he was turned over to the Tulare County Coroner’s Office. Cause of death is under investigation. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/body-of-missing-hiker-found-on-north-slope-of-mt-whitney-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2019-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn-scheduled-at-sequoia-national-park.htm Sat, 15 Jun 2019 08:11:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 14, 2019 – Firefighters at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are preparing for their annual prescribed burn in the foothills of Sequoia National Park, near the entrance to the park. Ignitions are planned to begin on Thursday, June 20, and continue through Sunday, June 23. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2019-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn-scheduled-at-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-complete-for-cedar-central-prescribed-burn.htm Wed, 12 Jun 2019 05:35:00 EST KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 12, 2017 – Fire staff completed ignitions on the last segment of the Cedar Central Prescribed Burn unit yesterday evening, for a total of 218 acres treated since Monday. With ignitions complete, firefighters will continue to patrol the area as vegetation inside the unit burns down. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-complete-for-cedar-central-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-have-started-for-cedar-central-prescribed-burn.htm Mon, 10 Jun 2019 11:05:00 EST KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 10, 2019 – Following a successful test burn this morning and a determination by the burn boss and fire management staff, ignitions have begun on the Cedar Central Prescribed Burn in Kings Canyon National Park. Three days of ignitions are planned. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-have-started-for-cedar-central-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/cedar-central-prescribed-burn-scheduled-in-cedar-grove.htm Sun, 02 Jun 2019 20:00:00 EST KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 3, 2019 – Starting on Monday, June 10, fire staff from Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are planning to conduct the first prescribed burn of calendar year 2019 in the Cedar Grove area of Kings Canyon National Park. The Cedar Central Prescribed Burn is located east of Moraine Campground, north of Highway 180, and south and west of the Kings River. Ignitions on the 218-acre Cedar Central Prescribed Burn are expected to take three days. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/cedar-central-prescribed-burn-scheduled-in-cedar-grove.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2019-memorial-day-weekend-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Thu, 23 May 2019 09:46:00 EST Memorial Day weekend is considered to be the summer kick-off for Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, but this year visitors can expect snow, rain and chilly temperatures in some areas of the parks. Campground availability will also be extremely limited due to hazard tree removal and late snow, with only about 42% of campsites typically open this time of year. Trip planning prior to visiting is highly recommended for a safe and enjoyable visit. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2019-memorial-day-weekend-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/orgs/1319/sai-and-cap-arrowhead-captain-brian-hughes.htm Tue, 07 May 2019 07:00:00 EST On May 7, 2019, the National Park Service released the findings and follow-up corrective action plan in the July 2018 death of National Park Service (NPS) Arrowhead Hotshot, Captain Brian Hughes. Hughes was killed in an accident while working on the Ferguson fire on the Sierra National Forest. https://www.nps.gov/orgs/1319/sai-and-cap-arrowhead-captain-brian-hughes.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/spring-2019-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Thu, 18 Apr 2019 12:52:00 EST Spring 2019 in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks What to expect and prepare for when visiting this time of year. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/spring-2019-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/lodgepole-campground-in-sequoia-national-park-season-opening-will-be-delayed.htm Fri, 12 Apr 2019 13:08:00 EST Due to the heavy snow pack and the abundance of hazard trees, the Lodgepole Campground will not open next week as scheduled. This very popular campground will remain closed until May 22. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/lodgepole-campground-in-sequoia-national-park-season-opening-will-be-delayed.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-expect-some-late-facility-openings-due-to-heavy-snowpack-and-hazard-trees.htm Fri, 05 Apr 2019 09:24:00 EST Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks expect some late facility openings due to heavy snowpack and hazard trees. Recent snow surveys show that Sequoia and Kings Canyon is 153% of normal. There are areas that still have 6-10 feet of snow in early April. Another result of the recent drought is the large number of hazard trees in the campgrounds and parking areas that usually open in April or early May. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-expect-some-late-facility-openings-due-to-heavy-snowpack-and-hazard-trees.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/the-national-park-service-approves-the-wuksachi-village-wireless-telecommunications-facility-within-sequoia-national-park.htm Wed, 03 Apr 2019 11:17:00 EST The National Park Service (NPS) has approved the plan and corresponding environmental assessment (EA) for the issuance of a right-of-way permit to Verizon Wireless to construct, operate, and maintain a wireless telecommunications facility providing cellular service near Wuksachi Village within Sequoia National Park. On February 13, 2019, a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) was signed by the NPS Pacific West Regional Director, Stan Austin. The FONSI and EA constitute the record of the environmental impact analysis and decision-making process for this project. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/the-national-park-service-approves-the-wuksachi-village-wireless-telecommunications-facility-within-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-release-2018-fire-year-summary-and-2019-prescribed-burn-and-mechanical-treatment-plans.htm Tue, 02 Apr 2019 05:00:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. April 2, 2019 – Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are releasing their 2018 fire year summary and 2019 prescribed burn and mechanical treatments to the public. Mechanical fuels treatments, prescribed burns, lightning-caused wildfires managed for multiple objectives, and full-suppression strategies and tactics all play a role in protecting these highly valued resources and assets. The use of a variety of wildland fire management tools makes wildfire management efforts much more safe and cost effective. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-release-2018-fire-year-summary-and-2019-prescribed-burn-and-mechanical-treatment-plans.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/search-for-missing-us-marine-in-central-sierra-nevada-moves-to-limited-continuous-mode.htm Sat, 16 Mar 2019 11:00:00 EST CENTRAL SIERRA NEVADA, Calif. March 16, 2019 – A massive multiagency search in the Sierra Nevada has been underway for more than a week to locate missing U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. Matthew Kraft, a 24-year-old man from Washington, Conn. Kraft set out on a solo ski and hike trip on Feb. 24 with an itinerary to complete the 195-mile Sierra High Route on March 4 or 5. Beginning today the search operation will transition into a limited continuous search status until Kraft is found. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/search-for-missing-us-marine-in-central-sierra-nevada-moves-to-limited-continuous-mode.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/search-continues-for-missing-us-marine-in-central-sierra-nevada.htm Mon, 11 Mar 2019 10:35:00 EST CENTRAL SIERRA NEVADA, Calif. March 11, 2019 – This is the sixth day of an intense multiagency search for missing Marine Corps 1st Lieutenant Matthew Kraft, a 24 year old man from Washington, Connecticut. 1st Lt. Kraft is 6’1” and 185 pounds. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/search-continues-for-missing-us-marine-in-central-sierra-nevada.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2019-dark-sky-festival-dates-announced-august-23-24-25.htm Tue, 12 Feb 2019 10:53:00 EST Sequoia Parks Conservancy, in partnership with Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks and Lake Kaweah, is excited to announce the event dates for the sixth annual Dark Sky Festival: August 23, 24, and 25. About the Festival The Dark Sky Festival is the largest night sky festival in Central California and takes place in various locations throughout Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks including the Foothills, Mineral King, Giant Forest, Lodgepole, Grant Grove, Cedar Grove, as well as Lake Kaweah in Three Rivers. Over 50 programs will be offered this year including tours, stargazing, guest speakers, movies, musical performances, and more. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2019-dark-sky-festival-dates-announced-august-23-24-25.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/winter-storm-warning-for-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Fri, 08 Feb 2019 03:50:00 EST A winter storm warning has been issued for the southern Sierra Nevada starting Friday afternoon that will impact travel into and within Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. The parks have been actively plowing and clearing roads of fallen trees since last weekend’s storm. The Generals Highway leading into the Giant Forest was closed for most of the week, and tire chain restrictions have been in place for other areas. Giant Forest Museum and Kings Canyon Visitor Center were closed most of this week due to power outages and road closures. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/winter-storm-warning-for-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-extend-date-for-proposals-of-land-exchanges-in-wilsonia-historic-district.htm Fri, 08 Feb 2019 03:23:00 EST Due to the lack of access to the National Park Service Planning, Compliance, and Public Comment (PEPC) webpage during the government shutdown, Sequoia and Kings Canyon is extending the date to accept submittals for proposals of land exchanges in the Wilsonia Historic District until March 9, 2019. The National Park Service (NPS) at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks is seeking Requests for Expression of Interest (RFEI) in the exchange of federally owned, improved residential properties in Wilsonia Historic District within Kings Canyon National Park, for privately owned, unimproved properties within the boundaries of the Parks. This is an opportunity for parties to express interest in making such an exchange with the National Park Service. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-extend-date-for-proposals-of-land-exchanges-in-wilsonia-historic-district.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-resume-full-operations.htm Sun, 27 Jan 2019 04:13:00 EST With the enactment of the continuing resolution, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks will resume regular operations on Tuesday, January 29, 2019. All areas of the parks that are typically open this time of year, continue to be open. Employees have started to come back to work this weekend. Entrance stations are scheduled to begin collecting entrance fees, and all visitor centers will resume their winter season hours of operation on Tuesday, January 29. This allows park staff to test out systems and also reconnect with colleagues they haven’t seen in over 35 days. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-resume-full-operations.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/visitor-centers-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-open-on-weekends-with-partner-donation.htm Sat, 19 Jan 2019 04:23:00 EST Park officials announced today that visitor centers in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks will be open for weekend operations beginning Saturday, January 19. Sequoia Parks Conservancy (SPC), the official park partner of the parks made a donation on Friday that covers National Park Service (NPS) Interpretive Rangers and facility maintenance at all locations. Park visitor centers have been closed for the past 28 days during this lapse in appropriations. Pear Lake Winter Hut, also managed by SPC, will also resume normal operations. “We believe in the power of information as a way to guide and transform a visitor’s experience of these parks,” said Savannah Boiano, Executive Director of the Sequoia Parks Conservancy. “This donation is one way for the Sequoia Parks Conservancy to support Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks and the National Park Service.” https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/visitor-centers-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-open-on-weekends-with-partner-donation.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-to-restore-accessibility-and-resume-basic-visitor-services.htm Fri, 11 Jan 2019 04:31:00 EST Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks announced today that the recently closed parks will once again be accessible to visitors starting January 11, 2019. Some visitor services, including campgrounds and entrance stations, will reopen using revenue generated by recreation fees. All areas that are typically open this time of year, including campgrounds, restrooms, trails, and roads, are open, except visitor centers. These areas will remain open unless winter conditions or other factors require otherwise. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-to-restore-accessibility-and-resume-basic-visitor-services.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/unsafe-visitor-conditions-lead-to-full-closure-of-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Wed, 02 Jan 2019 04:41:00 EST Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks will be fully closed effective 6 p.m. on Wednesday, January 2. The parks are being forced to take this action for health and safety concerns. This supersedes previous closures. Sequoia National Park will be closed at the Ash Mountain Entrance Station in Three Rivers, California. This closure extends through the Foothills, Giant Forest, Lodgepole, through to Lost Grove. The closure includes all concession and park partner operations. Bathroom facilities in all locations are unsanitary and unhealthy, resulting in facility closures and human waste and toilet paper accumulation. Overflowing trash receptacles have resulted in animals eating and spreading trash around. Lack of adequate parking has resulted in significant pedestrian use of the Generals Highway, creating risk of pedestrian-vehicle conflicts. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/unsafe-visitor-conditions-lead-to-full-closure-of-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/unsafe-visitor-conditions-lead-to-closures-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Mon, 31 Dec 2018 07:08:00 EST Due to unsafe visitor conditions, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks will be closing areas of the parks at 6 p.m. this evening. The Generals Highway will close at Hospital Rock in Sequoia National Park. This closure extends through Giant Forest and Lodgepole, through to Lost Grove. The closure includes concession facilities at these locations including lodging and markets. The Wuksachi Lodge will be provided 48 hours to vacate overnight guests. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/unsafe-visitor-conditions-lead-to-closures-in-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-accessible-during-government-shutdown.htm Sat, 22 Dec 2018 08:12:00 EST During the shutdown of the federal government due to the lapse of appropriations, national parks will remain as accessible as possible while still following all applicable laws and procedures. Most park roads, lookouts, trails and open-air memorials at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, will remain accessible to visitors, but emergency and rescue services will be limited. There will be no NPS-provided visitor services at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, including public information, restrooms, trash collection, and facilities and roads maintenance. Services such as lodging, restaurants, and other services provided by the parks concessioner, Delaware North, and walks and programs provided by our park partner Sequoia Parks Conservancy, will continue. For reservation information and a complete list of services, please visit their websites, www.visitsequoia.com and www.sequoiaparksconservancy.org. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-accessible-during-government-shutdown.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-np-wildfires-create-beneficial-landscape-scale-treatments.htm Wed, 28 Nov 2018 09:35:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. November 28, 2018 – Burning since October 4th in the John Krebs Wilderness of Sequoia National Park, the 1,777 acre lightning-caused Eden Fire is now 90% contained. The onset of winter-like weather and a combination of visual and infrared flights this week have shown the fire’s growth to be very limited. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-np-wildfires-create-beneficial-landscape-scale-treatments.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/two-fires-grow-in-remote-area-of-sequoia-national-park.htm Wed, 21 Nov 2018 06:15:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. November 21, 2018 – Started by lightning on October 4th and burning in the John Krebs Wilderness, the Eden Fire area is now 1,430 acres with 5% containment. An infrared flight took place Tuesday night and allowed more accurate mapping as the area was shrouded in smoke the past few days. Due to its location, there are currently no threats to life, property, or other assets. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/two-fires-grow-in-remote-area-of-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/extended-road-construction-delays-and-closures-this-weekend-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Thu, 15 Nov 2018 09:27:00 EST The second season of road construction along a one mile section of the Generals Highway in Sequoia National Park is winding down, and this requires some additional work to be completed before the holiday weekend. The one mile segment of the Generals Highway between Hospital Rock and Giant Forest will be closing for pavement work on Friday night and Saturday night. Daytime delays will be up to one hour on Saturday. A complete schedule is provided below that includes the holiday weekend. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/extended-road-construction-delays-and-closures-this-weekend-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-announce-request-of-proposals-for-land-exchanges-in-wilsonia-historic-district.htm Thu, 15 Nov 2018 06:26:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. November 15, 2018 – The National Park Service (NPS) at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks is seeking Requests for Expression of Interest (RFEI) in the exchange of federally owned, improved residential properties in Wilsonia Historic District within Kings Canyon National Park, for privately owned, unimproved properties within the boundaries of the Parks. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-announce-request-of-proposals-for-land-exchanges-in-wilsonia-historic-district.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/update-on-eden-fire-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Wed, 14 Nov 2018 08:00:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. November 14, 2018 – The Eden Fire continues to grow and is now 343 acres as mapped via the parks’ helicopter. Fire has slowed its progress in the Eden Creek drainage on the western edge of the fire. Fire however has established itself on the east side of the eastern branch of Eden Creek drainage. One spot fire was observed on the east flank approximately 200 feet off the main fire and burning actively. Fire does not appear to be moving up-slope (south) towards Homers Nose. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/update-on-eden-fire-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/eden-fire-grows-in-remote-area-of-sequoia-national-park.htm Mon, 05 Nov 2018 12:59:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. November 5, 2018 – The Eden Fire continues to slowly grow in the steep and rugged terrain of the John Krebs Wilderness in Sequoia National Park. This lightning-caused fire started on October 4, 2018 during a series of thunderstorms that came through the area the first week of October. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/eden-fire-grows-in-remote-area-of-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/five-acre-eden-fire-burning-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Thu, 01 Nov 2018 08:15:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. November 1, 2018 – The Eden Fire, located in Eden Creek Grove of giant sequoias, south of Mineral King Road is now estimated to be approximately 5 acres. This lightning-caused fire started on October 4, 2018 during a series of thunderstorms that came through the area the first week of October. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/five-acre-eden-fire-burning-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-national-park-seeks-public-comment-environmental-assessment-for-cellular-facility-at-wuksachi-village.htm Wed, 24 Oct 2018 12:10:00 EST The National Park Service has released an environmental assessment that evaluates a proposal by Verizon Wireless to install a wireless communications facility near Wuksachi Village in Sequoia National Park. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-national-park-seeks-public-comment-environmental-assessment-for-cellular-facility-at-wuksachi-village.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/cedar-grove-pack-station-selected-to-operate-cedar-grove-pack-station-and-grant-grove-stables-in-kings-canyon-national-park.htm Tue, 23 Oct 2018 10:04:00 EST Calif. October 23, 2018 – The National Park Service (NPS) has selected Cedar Grove Pack Station, owned by Timothy B. Loverin, to operate the Cedar Grove Pack Station and Grant Grove Stables under a new five year concession contract with Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. “We are pleased to continue working with Mr. Loverin as the concessioner for the Cedar Grove Pack Station and Grant Grove Stables,” said Woody Smeck, superintendent for Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. “The National Park Service is excited to provide visitors with the opportunity to experience Kings Canyon National Park’s spectacular natural and cultural resources in a way so many have done over the centuries.” https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/cedar-grove-pack-station-selected-to-operate-cedar-grove-pack-station-and-grant-grove-stables-in-kings-canyon-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sherman-prescribed-burn-postponed-due-to-fuel-conditions.htm Fri, 19 Oct 2018 12:15:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. October 19, 2018 – The Sherman Prescribed Burn in Sequoia National Park has been postponed until further notice. A test burn of three acres, which was conducted late this morning into early afternoon, yielded unsatisfactory results, with many of the ignitions self-extinguishing without consuming the fuel necessary to meet the objectives for the project. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sherman-prescribed-burn-postponed-due-to-fuel-conditions.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2-hour-road-construction-delays-begin-on-10-22-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Wed, 17 Oct 2018 10:33:00 EST With the construction season coming to an end, more time is needed to allow for critical work to take place. Beginning on Monday, October 22 weekday delays will change from up to one hour to up to two hours in duration. These extended delays are scheduled through Friday, November 2, but may be extended if needed, and after park review. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2-hour-road-construction-delays-begin-on-10-22-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/missing-hiker-in-dusy-basin-found-alive.htm Sun, 30 Sep 2018 11:26:00 EST KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Calif. September 30, 2018 – The missing hiker, Diane Salmon, 63, from Lafayette, California, who was reported missing has been found. She was seen by other hikers on her way to the South Lake Trailhead in Inyo National Forest. Ms. Salmon walked out with them and is currently being reunited with her family. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/missing-hiker-in-dusy-basin-found-alive.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/missing-hiker-in-dusy-basin-kings-canyon-national-park.htm Sun, 30 Sep 2018 09:12:00 EST KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Calif. September 30, 2018 – Diane Salmon, 63, from Lafayette, California, was reported missing to the National Park Service late in the day on Friday, September 28, 2018. She was last seen on the Bishop Pass Trail on Friday morning on the Northside of the first lake in Dusy Basin below Knapsack Pass. She was hiking along trails along with two members of her family and was intending to cross Bishop Pass to exit at South Lake in Inyo National Forest Friday night. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/missing-hiker-in-dusy-basin-kings-canyon-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/parks-announce-fall-prescribed-burn-plans.htm Wed, 26 Sep 2018 12:53:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. September 26, 2018 – With the changing of the seasons, the parks are announcing two priority prescribed burns to be completed before the end of the year, as cooler weather and moisture arrives to the area this time of year. One project is planned for each park, the 466-acre Cedar Central Prescribed Burn located in Cedar Grove of Kings Canyon National Park and the 488-acre Sherman Prescribed Burn located in Giant Forest of Sequoia National Park. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/parks-announce-fall-prescribed-burn-plans.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/horse-creek-fire-update-7-21-18.htm Sat, 21 Jul 2018 15:00:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. July 21, 2018 – The Horse Creek Fire showed an increase in fire activity last night. Throughout the day, the fire continued to grow slowly, with isolated tree torching in areas of high tree mortality. The fire is now 20 acres. The fire is highly visible for several miles on the south side of the Mineral King Road, and is burning in wilderness. Firefighters are taking full suppression action on this fire. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/horse-creek-fire-update-7-21-18.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/horse-creek-fire-update-7-20-18.htm Fri, 20 Jul 2018 10:35:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. July 20, 2018 – The Horse Creek Fire is now six acres. This lightning-caused fire is located near the top of the ridge between the east fork of the Kaweah River and Horse Creek, west of the Hockett Trail in Sequoia National Park. The fire is highly visible on the south side of the Mineral King Road, and is burning in designated wilderness. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/horse-creek-fire-update-7-20-18.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/climbing-fatality-in-kings-canyon-national-park.htm Mon, 16 Jul 2018 12:24:00 EST KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Calif. July 16, 2018 – On Thursday, July 12 at about four in the afternoon the parks received a satellite device SOS call from the John Muir Trail/Pacific Crest Trail near Center Peak in Kings Canyon National Park, just north of Forester Pass. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/climbing-fatality-in-kings-canyon-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/east-creek-fire-in-kings-canyon-national-park-update.htm Mon, 09 Jul 2018 11:45:00 EST KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Calif. July 9, 2018 – The East Creek Fire has shown a significant reduction in smoke and fire activity. There are still no trail closures related to this fire. The total acreage of the fire has been reduced from 26 acres to six acres. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/east-creek-fire-in-kings-canyon-national-park-update.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ten-acre-wildfire-discovered-in-kings-canyon-wilderness.htm Sat, 07 Jul 2018 13:25:00 EST KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Calif. July 7, 2018 – Early this afternoon, a wildfire was reported in the wilderness of Kings Canyon National Park by a patrolling trail ranger. Named the East Creek Fire, it is currently ten-acres, and is burning two-thirds of a mile south of the Bubbs Creek Trail and west of the East Creek Trail, about eight and half miles east of Roads End. The greatest growth potential currently exists on the east/southeast side of the fire. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ten-acre-wildfire-discovered-in-kings-canyon-wilderness.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sherman-prescribed-burn-postponed.htm Fri, 22 Jun 2018 11:15:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 22, 2018 – Plans for a 295-acre prescribed burn in the Giant Forest area of Sequoia National Park, known as the Sherman Prescribed Burn, have been postponed until further notice. While ignitions were to begin on Tuesday, park officials deemed that fuel and weather conditions are not ideal to move forward with the project as scheduled; specifically the moisture content of the fuels, and predicted atmospheric conditions would provide for poor smoke dispersion. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sherman-prescribed-burn-postponed.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/park-visitor-loses-life-in-kaweah-river-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Sun, 10 Jun 2018 11:53:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 10, 2018 –Mid-day on Sunday, park rangers received a report of a visitor being swept down the Middle Fork of the Kaweah River inside Sequoia National Park. Immediately, both park and Tulare County swift-water rescue resources were called to the scene. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/park-visitor-loses-life-in-kaweah-river-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-announce-annual-prescribed-burn-and-mechanical-treatment-for-2018.htm Sun, 01 Apr 2018 04:05:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. April 1, 2018 – Today, the Fire and Fuels Management Program announce the planned prescribed burns and mechanical treatments for 2018. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks mechanical fuels treatments, prescribed burns, and lightning-caused wildfires managed for multiple objectives all play a role in protecting highly valued resources and assets. The use of a variety of wildland fire management tools makes wildfire management efforts much more effective. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-announce-annual-prescribed-burn-and-mechanical-treatment-for-2018.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/fall-ignitions-complete-on-cedar-east-prescribed-burn.htm Fri, 20 Oct 2017 12:56:00 EST KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Calif. October 20, 2017 – Fire staff completed ignitions on the last segment of the Cedar East Prescribed Burn unit this afternoon, for a total of 179 acres treated since Tuesday. The difference from the planned total acreage of 192 for this segment is due to variable weather that created good conditions for prescribed burning in some parts of the unit, and less favorable conditions in others. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/fall-ignitions-complete-on-cedar-east-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-have-started-for-cedar-east-prescribed-burn.htm Tue, 17 Oct 2017 10:45:00 EST KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Calif. October 17, 2017 – Following a successful test burn this afternoon, and a determination by the burn boss and fire management staff, the Cedar East Prescribed Burn has started in Kings Canyon National Park. Three to four days of ignitions are planned. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-have-started-for-cedar-east-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/parks-postpone-lost-grove-prescribed-burn-and-plan-smaller-project-in-cedar-grove.htm Fri, 13 Oct 2017 12:45:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. October 13, 2017 – Park officials have decided to postpone the Lost Grove Prescribed Burn, which was scheduled to begin on Sunday October 15, and instead will complete a final segment on the Cedar East Prescribed Burn, which was begun in Cedar Grove in April 2017. Ignitions on this segment of the Cedar East Prescribed Burn are expected to begin on Tuesday, October 17, if conditions are favorable. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/parks-postpone-lost-grove-prescribed-burn-and-plan-smaller-project-in-cedar-grove.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/road-construction-updates-two-hour-daytime-delays-begin-october-16th.htm Fri, 13 Oct 2017 12:06:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. (October 13, 2017) Work on the Generals Highway Construction Project in Sequoia National Park is progressing. This project began in mid-June and is underway for two construction seasons. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is reconstructing a segment of the Generals Highway between Amphitheater Point Overlook and Crystal Cave Road (Deer Ridge to Eleven Range). https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/road-construction-updates-two-hour-daytime-delays-begin-october-16th.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/lost-grove-prescribed-burn-scheduled-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Tue, 10 Oct 2017 13:25:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. October 10, 2017 – As fall brings cooler temperatures throughout the parks, firefighters are preparing to begin ignitions on the Lost Grove Prescribed Burn as early as Sunday, October 15. The Lost Grove Prescribed Burn unit is located north of Dorst Campground in Sequoia National Park and south of Stony Creek in Sequoia National Forest. It is bordered to the south by the Generals Highway, and is planned to be 669-acres in size. Ignitions will continue for four to seven days, depending upon conditions. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/lost-grove-prescribed-burn-scheduled-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/missing-hiker-in-sequoia-national-park-located.htm Sat, 30 Sep 2017 12:12:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. September 30, 2017 – Missing hiker Edward “Hall” Newbegin has been located in Sequoia National Park. The parks’ helicopter spotted Mr. Newbegin hiking towards Mineral King on the Franklin Lakes Trail, approximately 2.5 miles east of the trailhead. Park rangers made contact with Mr. Newbegin, confirmed that he was uninjured, and provided an escort out of the wilderness to reunite with his family. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/missing-hiker-in-sequoia-national-park-located.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/missing-hiker-in-sequoia-national-park-edward-hall-newbegin.htm Sat, 30 Sep 2017 08:35:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. September 30, 2017 – Park officials are seeking leads to aid in the search for a missing hiker. 49-year-old Edward “Hall” Newbegin was last seen on Wednesday, September 27, in the lower Big Arroyo area of Sequoia National Park, when he separated from his hiking party. His party reported Mr. Newbegin missing the following day, after he failed to arrive at their rendezvous point. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/missing-hiker-in-sequoia-national-park-edward-hall-newbegin.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-creek-interagency-prescribed-burn-completed.htm Thu, 28 Sep 2017 12:43:00 EST Kings Canyon National Park & Sequoia National Forest, Calif. September 28, 2017 – Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks and Sequoia National Forest personnel have successfully completed the Sequoia Creek Prescribed Burn. The completed acreage is 264-acres. The planned acreage was 264-acres, with 55-acres in Sequoia National Forest and 209-acres in Kings Canyon National Park. A portion of the South Boundary and Hitchcock Meadow Trails and Big Stump Picnic Area will remain closed until conditions are determined safe for access by the fire management staff. All other trails in Grant Grove are open. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-creek-interagency-prescribed-burn-completed.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-started-on-sequoia-creek-prescribed-burn.htm Mon, 25 Sep 2017 08:32:00 EST Kings Canyon National Park & Sequoia National Forest, Calif. September 25, 2017 – Ignitions began today on the Sequoia Creek Prescribed Burn, a collaborative project between Kings Canyon National Park and Sequoia National Forest. Following a successful test burn at approximately 11:45 AM, fire crews are continuing ignitions by hand throughout the first segment of the burn unit. The burn unit is located north of Highway 180, between the Big Stump Entrance to Kings Canyon National Park and Wilsonia Village. Ignitions are expected to take between 3 and 4 days. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-started-on-sequoia-creek-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-kings-canyon-national-parks-and-sequoia-national-forest-announce-first-interagency-prescribed-burn.htm Fri, 22 Sep 2017 19:38:00 EST Kings Canyon National Park & Sequoia National Forest, Calif. September 22, 2017 – The USDA Forest Service and the National Park Service are planning to start the Sequoia Creek Prescribed Burn as early as this Monday, September 25, 2017. This date was selected due to favorable weather and approval by the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District. The burn is located north of Highway 180, between the Big Stump Entrance to Kings Canyon National Park and Wilsonia Village. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-kings-canyon-national-parks-and-sequoia-national-forest-announce-first-interagency-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/two-new-lightning-fires-discovered-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Tue, 12 Sep 2017 09:13:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. September 12, 2017– Two new lightning-caused fires were confirmed this morning by firefighters from Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Both fires are being fully-suppressed due to location and vegetation-type. Each are approximately 1/10 of an acre in size. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/two-new-lightning-fires-discovered-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/oakland-zoo-san-francisco-zoo-and-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-release-critically-endangered-frogs-to-bolster-wild-populations.htm Wed, 30 Aug 2017 04:00:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. August 30, 2017 – Oakland Zoo, San Francisco Zoo, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service partnered for a third year in efforts to recover endangered mountain yellow-legged frog populations in the wild. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/oakland-zoo-san-francisco-zoo-and-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-release-critically-endangered-frogs-to-bolster-wild-populations.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/missing-persons-jie-song-and-yinan-wang.htm Sat, 12 Aug 2017 07:18:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. August 12, 2017 - The parks received a report on Friday, August 11, of missing parties last seen in Sequoia National Park on Sunday, August 6. Jie Song (left) and Yinan Wang (right) pictured below were last seen at approximately 2 PM on Sunday at the junction of Crystal Cave Road and the Generals Highway in Sequoia National Park after attending a Crystal Cave Tour. They intended to continue north to Kings Canyon National Park, stay the night in Fresno, and had reservations in Yosemite National Park on Monday, August 7. They did not show up for their Yosemite reservation. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/missing-persons-jie-song-and-yinan-wang.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/missing-climber-in-kings-canyon-national-park-tom-fennessy.htm Fri, 11 Aug 2017 12:59:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. August 11, 2017– Inyo County Sheriff’s Office and National Park Service officials are seeking leads to aid in the search for a missing alpine climber. On Thursday, August 10, the Inyo County Sheriff’s Office received a report of an overdue climber. 55-year-old Tom Fennessy intended to return from the Thunderbolt Peak to Mount Sill Traverse in the Eastern Sierra late in the day on Wednesday, August 9. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/missing-climber-in-kings-canyon-national-park-tom-fennessy.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/third-river-fatality-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Sun, 18 Jun 2017 05:30:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 18, 2017 – Yesterday evening rangers received a report of a twenty-six year old female that fell into Silliman Creek along the Twin Lakes Trail in Sequoia National Park and was subsequently swept downstream. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/third-river-fatality-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ampitheatre-wildfire-contained-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Fri, 16 Jun 2017 13:23:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 16, 2017 – A vehicle fire was reported this afternoon in Sequoia National Park, approximately one-quarter mile south of popular vista location Ampitheatre Point. The fire then spread into the grass upslope of the vehicle. An immediate full-suppression response was initiated. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ampitheatre-wildfire-contained-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-complete-on-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn.htm Tue, 13 Jun 2017 10:45:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 13, 2017 – As of this afternoon, ignitions are complete on the Ash Mountain Prescribed Burn in Sequoia National Park. 26 acres have been treated with prescribed fire, with approximately 14 acres of the project area treated by mechanical methods. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-complete-on-ash-mountain-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ash-mountain-prescribed-burn-rescheduled-for-this-sunday.htm Fri, 09 Jun 2017 07:30:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 9, 2017 – Immediately after completing the test burn in the first segment of the Ash Mountain Prescribed Burn on June 7, 2017, firefighters from the National Park Service ceased operations due to the start of a wildfire outside of the parks in the community of Three Rivers and responded to assist. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ash-mountain-prescribed-burn-rescheduled-for-this-sunday.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ash-mountain-prescribed-burn-stopped-due-to-non-parks-wildfire.htm Wed, 07 Jun 2017 08:05:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 7, 2017 - This morning crews from the parks commenced the Ash Mountain Prescribed Burn. As they were completing this test burn, operations were ceased because of a new wildfire start outside the parks. Crews from the National Park Service are assisting in the response of this new fire. The large visible column of smoke is not related to the Ash Mountain Prescribed Burn. A total of five acres were treated this morning in the parks and no new prescribed burning will occur until a later date. Information for this fire at this time should be directed to fire agencies in Three Rivers, California. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ash-mountain-prescribed-burn-stopped-due-to-non-parks-wildfire.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/parks-to-incorporate-traditional-techniques-in-upcoming-prescribed-burn.htm Mon, 29 May 2017 21:41:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. May 30, 2017 – Firefighters at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are preparing for an upcoming prescribed burn adjacent to the Sequoia National Park entrance station and headquarters, known as the Ash Mountain area. Scheduled to begin June 7, 2017, with four to five burning days, this burn will incorporate philosophies and techniques employed by park partners from the Native American community. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/parks-to-incorporate-traditional-techniques-in-upcoming-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/park-rangers-make-arrests-in-major-marijuana-operation.htm Wed, 17 May 2017 10:22:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. (May 17, 2017) - This spring there was a joint operation between Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks and eight other law enforcement agencies to disrupt the cultivation of marijuana in Sequoia National Park and adjacent public lands. This effort lasted approximately ten days and involved up to 30 officers who dedicated nearly 1,000 hours. The operation focused on foothill canyon roads that have a history of marijuana cultivation. Officers conducted over 100 motor vehicle stops resulting in dozens of cultivation leads and six arrests. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/park-rangers-make-arrests-in-major-marijuana-operation.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-announce-two-public-meetings-on-2018-commercial-use-permitting-season.htm Tue, 09 May 2017 05:45:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. May 9, 2017 - The Parks will hold two public information meetings to discuss the implementation of Commercial Service Day (CSD) allocations for commercial operations in wilderness under the direction of the Wilderness Stewardship Plan / Final Environmental Impact Statement (WSP/FEIS) signed May 27, 2015 https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-announce-two-public-meetings-on-2018-commercial-use-permitting-season.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-national-park-hosts-go-native-event.htm Sun, 30 Apr 2017 06:48:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. April 30, 2017 – The Sequoia Parks Conservancy (SPC) in collaboration with local tribal representatives will be holding Go Native - A Native American Cultural Celebration - Saturday, May 6th, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Foothills Picnic Area across the highway from the Foothills Visitor Center in Sequoia National Park. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-national-park-hosts-go-native-event.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/two-fatalities-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Sun, 23 Apr 2017 05:16:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. April 23, 2017 - Two fatalities occurred in Sequoia National Park this weekend, one on Mount Whitney and one in the Kaweah River. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/two-fatalities-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-now-weather-ready-nation-ambassadors.htm Thu, 20 Apr 2017 08:05:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. April 20, 2017 – It is with great excitement through a new partnership with the National Weather Service Forecast Office in Hanford, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are now Weather Ready Nation Ambassadors. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-now-weather-ready-nation-ambassadors.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-launches-sale-of-entrance-passes-online.htm Mon, 17 Apr 2017 06:00:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. April 17, 2017 - In an effort to find the best solution to aid visitors and speed-up lines at entrance stations, the National Park Service now has a new pilot program where visitors can now get their entrance pass online prior to arriving at the parks. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-launches-sale-of-entrance-passes-online.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/crystal-cave-upgrade-project-moves-to-the-next-phase.htm Mon, 20 Mar 2017 06:00:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. March 20, 2017 – The National Park Service (NPS) has approved a plan to improve the visitor services in the Crystal Cave area of Sequoia National Park. National Park Service Pacific West Regional Director Laura Joss approved the project by signing a finding of no significant impact statement (FONSI) in February. The public was provided a chance to review the proposed plan in late 2015. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/crystal-cave-upgrade-project-moves-to-the-next-phase.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-parks-conservancy-selects-a-new-executive-director.htm Thu, 16 Mar 2017 06:00:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. March 16, 2017 – Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks and Sequoia Parks Conservancy are happy to announce that a new Executive Director for the Conservancy has been chosen. After an intensive search, Karen Dallett, will lead the organization into summer 2017 and forward. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-parks-conservancy-selects-a-new-executive-director.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-parks-conservancy-receives-donation-for-nps-research-projects.htm Wed, 25 Jan 2017 04:00:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. January 25, 2017 – The Sequoia Parks Conservancy (SPC) has been awarded a $94,074 donation from the Easterday Family Foundation to fund three research and restoration projects in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-parks-conservancy-receives-donation-for-nps-research-projects.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-complete-phased-in-fee-increases.htm Wed, 18 Jan 2017 03:43:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. January 18, 2017 – Since 2015, the National Park Service has implemented a phased in approach to fee increases for Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. 2017 marks the completion of this project with entry fees for Motorcycles now $25 per individual from $20 in 2016 for a 7-days pass. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-complete-phased-in-fee-increases.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/update-generals-highway-reopens-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Tue, 10 Jan 2017 06:32:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. January 10, 2016– The Generals Highway in Sequoia National Park is now open. Following multiple days of storms with mudslides, rockslides, and falling trees, the parks’ road crews have worked to clean-up the highway. Visitors should be prepared for rapidly changing conditions as the next storm is expected this afternoon. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/update-generals-highway-reopens-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/update-generals-highway-open-in-sequoia-national-park-until-5-pm-today.htm Sun, 08 Jan 2017 06:45:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. January 8, 2016– The Generals Highway in Sequoia National Park is now open until 5:00 p.m. tonight for visitor safety. Conditions will be reassessed tomorrow morning to determine when the road will re-open. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/update-generals-highway-open-in-sequoia-national-park-until-5-pm-today.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/missing-hikers-body-found.htm Mon, 28 Nov 2016 11:38:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. November 28, 2016 – During the search and rescue efforts for Vince Scalise, a 41-year-old from Phoenix, AZ, his body was found today by searchers. Mr. Scalise was found at the junction of Panther Creek and the Middle Fork of the Kaweah River in Sequoia National Park. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/missing-hikers-body-found.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/missing-hiker-vince-scalise.htm Sun, 27 Nov 2016 04:40:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. November 27, 2016 – Park officials are requesting the public’s help with information regarding a missing hiker. Saturday night, November 26, 2016, park dispatch was notified of an overdue hiker visiting the wilderness of Sequoia National Park. Vince Scalise, a 41-year-old from Phoenix, AZ, was supposed to return from a backpacking trip on Wednesday, November 23, 2016. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/missing-hiker-vince-scalise.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/update-on-fires-in-the-parks.htm Thu, 17 Nov 2016 08:51:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. November 17, 2016 – Despite the cooler temperatures, fire season continues in the parks. The following is an update on ongoing fires within park boundaries. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/update-on-fires-in-the-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/jury-finds-man-guilty-of-first-degree-murder-after-a-multi-agency-investigation.htm Wed, 16 Nov 2016 03:10:00 EST A homicide investigation by the National Park Service (NPS) Investigative Services Branch, Visalia Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has led to a guilty verdict. On November 9, 2016, a jury convicted Miguel Villegas Pacheco, age 35, of first-degree murder in the 2013 death of his 14-year-old stepson. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/jury-finds-man-guilty-of-first-degree-murder-after-a-multi-agency-investigation.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-on-deadwood-prescribed-burn-now-complete.htm Mon, 14 Nov 2016 03:15:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. November 14, 2016 –Ignitions are now complete for the Deadwood Prescribed Burn. The total area treated since Thursday afternoon is 185-acres. The remaining 93-acres of the target 278-acres should be consumed as the middle of unit backs down towards the river over the next several days. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-on-deadwood-prescribed-burn-now-complete.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-have-started-for-deadwood-prescribed-burn.htm Thu, 10 Nov 2016 10:32:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. November 10, 2016 – Following a successful test burn this morning, and a determination by the burn boss and fire management staff, the Deadwood Prescribed Burn has started in Sequoia National Park. Ignitions will continue for four to five days, including two to four days of aerial ignitions. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-have-started-for-deadwood-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/search-for-missing-hiker-robert-bob-woodie-scaled-back.htm Fri, 28 Oct 2016 12:40:00 EST After more than a week of searching for hiker Robert “Bob” Woodie, the mission has been put on hold due to a series of incoming winter storms forecasted for over the next week. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/search-for-missing-hiker-robert-bob-woodie-scaled-back.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-creek-prescribed-burn-postponed.htm Sun, 23 Oct 2016 07:00:00 EST Kings Canyon National Park & Sequoia National Forest, Calif. October 23, 2016 – After further evaluation, both the National Park Service and the U.S. Forest Service have decided to postpone the 264-acre Sequoia Creek Prescribed Burn out of an abundance of caution. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-creek-prescribed-burn-postponed.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/search-continues-for-missing-hiker-robert-bob-woodie.htm Fri, 21 Oct 2016 09:14:00 EST As the search for Robert “Bob” Woodie continues, park officials are requesting that any hiker who was in the search area since Thursday, October 13, 2016, to reach out with information. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/search-continues-for-missing-hiker-robert-bob-woodie.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/missing-hiker-robert-bob-woodie.htm Wed, 19 Oct 2016 16:34:00 EST Park officials are requesting the public’s help with information regarding a missing hiker. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/missing-hiker-robert-bob-woodie.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/kings-canyon-national-park-and-sequoia-national-forest-announce-timeframe-for-first-joint-interagency-prescribed-burn.htm Wed, 19 Oct 2016 05:04:00 EST Kings Canyon National Park & Sequoia National Forest, Calif. October 19, 2016 – The USDA Forest Service and the National Park Service are planning to start the Sequoia Creek Prescribed Burn as early as next Monday. This date was selected due to favorable weather and approval by the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District. The burn is located north of Highway 180, between the Big Stump Entrance to Kings Canyon National Park and Wilsonia Village. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/kings-canyon-national-park-and-sequoia-national-forest-announce-timeframe-for-first-joint-interagency-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/illegal-marijuana-eradicated-from-sequoia-national-park.htm Wed, 12 Oct 2016 11:00:00 EST Nearly 3,000 illegal marijuana plants were eradicated from Sequoia National Park last month. Law enforcement officers discovered a cultivation site in the Yucca Creek drainage west, which is in a designated wilderness area of Sequoia National Park, west of Generals Highway. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/illegal-marijuana-eradicated-from-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-have-started-for-dorst-prescribed-burn.htm Mon, 10 Oct 2016 07:15:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. October 10, 2016 – Following a successful test burn this morning, and a determination by the burn boss and fire management staff, the Dorst Prescribed Burn has started in Sequoia National Park. Ignitions will continue for two to three days. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/ignitions-have-started-for-dorst-prescribed-burn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/plan-to-restore-native-species-to-high-elevation-aquatic-ecosystems-approved.htm Tue, 04 Oct 2016 07:42:00 EST Work to restore endangered frogs to high elevation aquatic ecosystems will be continuing under a newly approved plan. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/plan-to-restore-native-species-to-high-elevation-aquatic-ecosystems-approved.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/dorst-prescribed-burn-planned-for-sequoia-national-park.htm Tue, 04 Oct 2016 05:39:00 EST SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. October 4, 2016 – The parks are scheduling their first prescribed burn of fall 2016, north of Dorst Campground, near the northern border of Sequoia National Park. This represents a change of plans for the parks, due to cooling trends and increased relative humidity bringing the area into appropriate parameters for prescribed burning, as shown by recent fuel moisture samples taken at the site. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/dorst-prescribed-burn-planned-for-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/national-parks-announce-plans-for-fall-prescribed-burns.htm Fri, 23 Sep 2016 12:02:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. September 23, 2016 – As temperatures drop and the season changes, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are preparing to perform three prescribed burns during the fall of 2016. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/national-parks-announce-plans-for-fall-prescribed-burns.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/fatality-at-deerhorn-mountain-in-kings-canyon-national-park.htm Thu, 22 Sep 2016 05:08:00 EST On the morning of Tuesday, September 20, 2016, park dispatchers were notified by the Inyo County Sherrif’s Department of a missing person presumably in Kings Canyon National Park. Alfred Kwok, a 50-year-old male from Claremont, CA, was reported overdue from a solo wilderness trip that was planned to conclude on Sunday, September 18, 2016. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/fatality-at-deerhorn-mountain-in-kings-canyon-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/fatality-at-eagle-lake-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Mon, 19 Sep 2016 08:42:00 EST On Saturday, September 17 at 3:08 p.m., park dispatchers were notified that a satellite SOS device had been activated at Eagle Lake within Sequoia National Park. The SOS message indicated an apparent drowning in the lake. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/fatality-at-eagle-lake-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/free-entrance-to-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-on-sept-24.htm Wed, 14 Sep 2016 11:09:00 EST Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks will offer free entrance to the public on Saturday, September 24, 2016, in honor of National Public Lands Day, which is the nation's largest, single-day volunteer effort for public lands. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/free-entrance-to-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-on-sept-24.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-launch-second-year-of-every-kid-in-a-park-pass.htm Fri, 02 Sep 2016 13:49:00 EST Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks encourage all fourth graders to visit for free this year as part of the Every Kid in a Park program. The program gives fourth grade students, and those accompanying them, free access to more than 2,000 federally-managed lands and waters. Visit www.EveryKidinaPark.gov to download the pass and obtain more information. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-launch-second-year-of-every-kid-in-a-park-pass.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/redwood-canyon-hiking-trails-to-be-partially-reopened.htm Fri, 29 Jul 2016 04:47:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. July 29, 2016 – Effective Monday, August 1, 2016, some of the trail closures associated with the Goliath Prescribed Burn in Redwood Canyon will be lifted. At that time, the Redwood Canyon Trail, the Sugarbowl Trail, and the Big Springs Trail will be reopened for visitor use. This will allow visitors to hike the full Sugarbowl Loop. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/redwood-canyon-hiking-trails-to-be-partially-reopened.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/parks-firefighters-voice-concerns-over-drone-usage.htm Sun, 24 Jul 2016 12:01:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. July 24, 2016 – Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), or drones, are on the rise in our nation’s airspace. While most drone operators are recreating privately, the Federal Aviation Administration recently passed legislation to simplify the process of getting licensed as a commercial drone operator. Drones are increasingly popular and have many useful applications. So, why aren’t visitors allowed to fly drones in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks? https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/parks-firefighters-voice-concerns-over-drone-usage.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/missing-hiker-john-lee.htm Sat, 23 Jul 2016 04:09:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS – On Saturday, July 23, 2016, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks’ and Inyo County Sheriff’s Office, in cooperation with other partners, continued searching in the vicinity of Mt. Whitney for missing hiker John Lee, a 68-year-old male from Mentone, CA. Other partners involved in the search include Inyo County Search and Rescue, Marin County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue, Bay Area Mountain Rescue Unit, Placer County Sheriff’s Office Mountain Rescue Team, Placer County Search and Rescue, Sierra Madre Search and Rescue, California Air National Guard, and Cal OES. A total of 66 staff and volunteers have been assigned to search efforts today. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/missing-hiker-john-lee.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2015-rough-fire-one-year-later.htm Fri, 22 Jul 2016 08:07:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. July 22, 2016 – As the one year anniversary of the Rough Fire approaches; the National Park Service has released an interactive map along with a series of videos to share the story of the Rough Fire. The eight videos will be released one a week for the next few months. Starting on July 31, 2015 from a lighting strike, the Rough Fire grew to be over 151,000 acres and the 2nd largest wildfire in modern Sierra Nevada history. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/2015-rough-fire-one-year-later.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/explore-sequoia-national-park-through-art-and-music.htm Wed, 08 Jun 2016 12:15:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, CALIFORNIA – Come explore Sequoia National Park through art and music this summer! Special programs include: https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/explore-sequoia-national-park-through-art-and-music.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/release-of-final-plan-for-the-restoration-of-native-species-in-high-elevation-aquatic-ecosystems.htm Wed, 08 Jun 2016 08:48:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, CALIFORNIA—The Restoration of Native Species in High Elevation Aquatic Ecosystems Plan / Final Environmental Impact Statement (Restoration Plan/FEIS) for Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks will be available to the public starting on June 10, 2016. A notice of availability for the Restoration Plan/FEIS will be published in the Federal Register on the same day. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/release-of-final-plan-for-the-restoration-of-native-species-in-high-elevation-aquatic-ecosystems.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/upcoming-goliath-prescribed-burn-in-redwood-canyon.htm Mon, 06 Jun 2016 12:50:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. June 6, 2016 – The parks are announcing potential dates for the upcoming Goliath Prescribed Burn in Redwood Canyon, located in Kings Canyon National Park. With ideal conditions for this prescribed burn being early summer, staff from both parks have been preparing the area and collecting data to ensure the parameters are set for a successful operation. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/upcoming-goliath-prescribed-burn-in-redwood-canyon.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/girl-survives-after-swept-downriver-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Sun, 05 Jun 2016 11:56:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, CA – On Saturday, June 5, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks’ Dispatch Office received a radio call at 4:16 p.m. from a park employee relaying a report from park visitors of someone in distress in the Kaweah River near Hospital Rock in Sequoia National Park. A swiftwater rescue was initiated at that time. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/girl-survives-after-swept-downriver-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/national-park-service-selects-dnc-parks-and-resorts-at-sequoia-inc-to-be-new-concessioner-at-sequoia-national-park.htm Fri, 03 Jun 2016 06:00:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, CALIFORNIA— DNC Parks & Resorts at Sequoia, Inc., has been selected to receive a new 10-year concessions contract to operate overnight accommodations, food and beverage, and other services at Sequoia National Park (Wuksachi, Lodgepole and Bearpaw areas). The new contract resulted from a bidding process required by the 1998 Concessions Management Improvement Act. Concession contract proposals for Sequoia National Park were solicited by the National Park Service from May 7, 2015, through October 8, 2015. The new concession contract at Sequoia National Park will take effect on November 1, 2016. Until then, Delaware North will continue to operate lodging, food and beverage, and retail services in the park under its current contract. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/national-park-service-selects-dnc-parks-and-resorts-at-sequoia-inc-to-be-new-concessioner-at-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/fighting-drought-with-fire-prescribed-fires-reduce-tree-death-from-drought.htm Mon, 23 May 2016 08:01:00 EST THREE RIVERS, Calif. (May 23, 2016) – A new study from the U.S. Geological Survey and National Park Service shows that thinning forests with prescribed fire can reduce the effects of drought. Climate change is expected to amplify drought conditions in California so using science to better understand the impacts of drought is of great importance to resource managers such as the National Park Service. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/fighting-drought-with-fire-prescribed-fires-reduce-tree-death-from-drought.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/fatality-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Sat, 21 May 2016 14:24:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, CA – On Friday, May 20, 2016, at 6:07 p.m., a hiker stopped at the Lodgepole Visitor Center in Sequoia National Park to report that another member of his party, a 26-year-old male from Tustin, CA, needed medical assistance for abdominal pain along the High Sierra Trail. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/fatality-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/missing-hiker-found-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Fri, 13 May 2016 12:29:00 EST Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, CA – The body of a 53 year old male hiker was found by searchers at Panther Creek on the Middle Fork Trail in Sequoia National Park on the afternoon of Thursday, May 12, 2016. The search began after another group of hikers he had passed on the trail reported by satellite phone that his backpack was found unattended near the campsite and two water bottle lids were found at the top of a waterfall. The NPS swiftwater rescuers donned wetsuits and located the body under water at the base of the waterfall. The body was transferred to the Tulare County Coroners Office. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/missing-hiker-found-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/be-a-citizen-scientist-at-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Thu, 05 May 2016 09:53:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, CA – Are you interested in reptiles, amphibians, mammals, birds, insects, or plants? If so, you are invited to join the Centennial BioBlitz, which will be held at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, on Saturday, May 21, from 9 a.m.-9 p.m.! A BioBlitz is a treasure hunt to discover living things—where you (ages 5 to adult)--can be a citizen scientist and work side-by-side with park rangers, scientists, and other staff—to get up close and personal with nature. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/be-a-citizen-scientist-at-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/nps-fire-program-leads-fire-extinguisher-training-for-parks-concessioner.htm Mon, 25 Apr 2016 10:19:00 EST KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Calif. April 25, 2016 – At the end of last week, fire management staff from Kings Canyon National Park held a fire extinguisher training for 15 employees of the of one the park’s concessioners, Delaware North, at the Grant Grove Fire Station. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/nps-fire-program-leads-fire-extinguisher-training-for-parks-concessioner.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/rangers-and-partners-remove-illegal-marijuana-cultivation-site-from-parks.htm Wed, 13 Apr 2016 07:05:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, CALIFORNIA – On Monday, March 28, 2016, law enforcement park rangers from Sequoia National Park, in cooperation with the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Bureau of Land Management, and Department of Homeland Security—Homeland Security Investigations, removed an illegal marijuana cultivation site in Sequoia National Park. A total of 8,816 young plants (worth over $22 million) were removed by hand from the park. This cultivation site was detected by park rangers a few days earlier. No arrests have been made and the investigation is ongoing. Please call 888-677-2746 with any tips on illegal cultivation on parkland. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/rangers-and-partners-remove-illegal-marijuana-cultivation-site-from-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/rescue-for-recovery-biologists-team-up-with-zoos-to-save-frogs-on-brink-of-extinction.htm Wed, 16 Dec 2015 04:45:00 EST Oakland, CA – December 16, 2015…Critically endangered tadpoles emergency evacuated from the high Sierra and transported to Oakland Zoo and San Francisco Zoo have successfully morphed into healthy mountain yellow-legged frogs. The precious cargo, carefully collected by National Park Service biologists in August, was airlifted from remote locations in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. “Mountain yellow-legged frogs are getting hammered by non-native trout and disease, and urgent intervention was needed to keep two populations in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks from disappearing,” said Danny Boiano, Aquatic Ecologist at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. “The National Park Service is fortunate to partner with Oakland and San Francisco zoos on this project; along with several agencies and universities, we are all striving to recover these iconic endangered species.” https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/rescue-for-recovery-biologists-team-up-with-zoos-to-save-frogs-on-brink-of-extinction.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/Increase-of-Entrance-Wilderness-and-Camping-Fees.htm Tue, 10 Nov 2015 10:31:00 EST Starting on January 1, 2016, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks will increase entrance fees for visitors in order to fund important maintenance and improvement projects within the park. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/Increase-of-Entrance-Wilderness-and-Camping-Fees.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/national-park-service-seeks-public-comments-on-the-crystal-cave-area-rehabilitation-and-redevelopment-plan-and-environmental-assessment.htm Wed, 04 Nov 2015 12:05:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, CA– The National Park Service (NPS) has released a plan and environmental assessment (EA) for the redevelopment and rehabilitation of the Crystal Cave area within Sequoia National Park. Crystal Cave has been one of Sequoia National Park’s primary visitor attractions since 1940 when the cave was officially opened to the public. It is the only cave open for guided public tours within Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. The purpose of the EA is to provide for an improved visitor experience at the Crystal Cave area in such a manner that reduces impacts, improves sustainability, meets legal requirements, and protects park natural and cultural resources. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/national-park-service-seeks-public-comments-on-the-crystal-cave-area-rehabilitation-and-redevelopment-plan-and-environmental-assessment.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-lift-fire-restrictions.htm Tue, 20 Oct 2015 04:34:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. October 20, 2015 – Effective today at 8:00 a.m., Tuesday, October 20, 2015, Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks are lifting fire restrictions inside the parks. Recent rains as well as shorter and cooler days have reduced fire danger. Even with restrictions lifted, visitors must still follow the parks’ year-round regulations concerning fire. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-lift-fire-restrictions.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-welcomes-centennial-volunteer-ambassador.htm Thu, 15 Oct 2015 12:52:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, CA – Stephany Dery, a graduate of the State University of New York at Cortland, will help prepare Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks for the National Park Service’s 100th anniversary in 2016. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-welcomes-centennial-volunteer-ambassador.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/parks-non-profit-partners-merge-to-create-the-sequoia-parks-conservancy.htm Thu, 15 Oct 2015 11:55:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, CA – Sequoia Natural History Association and Sequoia Parks Foundation, the two non-profit partners of the National Park Service at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, are combining forces to become a unified non-profit group—the Sequoia Parks Conservancy. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/parks-non-profit-partners-merge-to-create-the-sequoia-parks-conservancy.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/status-of-cedar-grove-for-public-visitation-due-to-the-rough-fire.htm Sat, 03 Oct 2015 04:45:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. October 3, 2015– The Rough Fire had a huge impact on Kings Canyon National Park this summer. Because of the impacts of the fire Cedar Grove and the road to it, California Highway 180, have been closed to public entry for many weeks now. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/status-of-cedar-grove-for-public-visitation-due-to-the-rough-fire.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-welcomes-4th-grade-students-through-every-kid-in-a-park.htm Fri, 04 Sep 2015 12:33:00 EST Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks – Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks invites all 4th grade students to visit the park for free as part of the White House’s new Every Kid in a Park program. Fourth-grade students can visit www.everykidoutdoors.gov to complete an activity and obtain a free annual entry pass to more than 2,000 federal recreation areas, including national parks. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks-welcomes-4th-grade-students-through-every-kid-in-a-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/reopening-of-grant-grove-and-wilsonia-areas-of-kings-canyon-national-park.htm Sun, 23 Aug 2015 14:49:00 EST The Grant Grove and Wilsonia areas of Kings Canyon National Park will reopen in stages over the next two days starting on Monday, August 24, 2015. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/reopening-of-grant-grove-and-wilsonia-areas-of-kings-canyon-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/overnight-facilities-close-temporarily-at-grant-grove-in-kings-canyon-national-park.htm Thu, 20 Aug 2015 13:31:00 EST Starting at 10 a.m. on Friday, August 21, until further notice, the John Muir Lodge, Grant Grove Cabins, and all campgrounds will be temporarily closed in the Grant Grove area of Kings Canyon National Park. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/overnight-facilities-close-temporarily-at-grant-grove-in-kings-canyon-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/rough-fire-notification.htm Sat, 15 Aug 2015 18:47:00 EST KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Calif. August 15, 2015 – At the recommendation of the Rough Fire Incident Management Team, the Park is notifying visitors and the public in Cedar Grove that the Rough Fire has necessitated closing Highway 180. The Rough Fire has not crossed the South Fork of the Kings River, however it is approaching the river below Highway 180. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/rough-fire-notification.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/rough-fire-sends-smoke-into-kings-canyon.htm Tue, 04 Aug 2015 12:50:00 EST HUME LAKE RANGER DISTRICT & KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Calif. August 4, 2015 – With multiple fires currently burning in the southern Sierra Nevada, state and federal agencies are working together to monitor and address smoke from local fires. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/rough-fire-sends-smoke-into-kings-canyon.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/national-parks-respond-to-several-lightning-caused-fires.htm Sun, 05 Jul 2015 13:00:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. July 5, 2015 – Since lightning storms came through the parks starting July 1, the parks have eight new lightning-caused fires. Afternoon monsoonal weather has caused additional lightning strikes with new fires being discovered everyday by park firefighters and staff. Lightning-caused fires can take days or weeks to detect because vegetation has to dry out enough to create smoke or visible flames after the storm passes over. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/national-parks-respond-to-several-lightning-caused-fires.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/rangers-and-firefighters-remind-visitors-fireworks-are-prohibited-in-national-parks.htm Wed, 24 Jun 2015 12:22:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. June 24, 2015 – With another year of continued unprecedented drought, rangers and firefighters would like to remind visitors that fireworks are prohibited in all areas of national parks – including campgrounds, lodges, and other areas within the parks. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/rangers-and-firefighters-remind-visitors-fireworks-are-prohibited-in-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/national-park-service-completes-final-wilderness-stewardship-plan-for-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm Fri, 29 May 2015 15:03:00 EST This news release provides information about a new Wilderness Stewardship Plan for Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/national-park-service-completes-final-wilderness-stewardship-plan-for-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/soliciting-proposals-to-provide-hospitality-services-in-sequoia-national-park.htm Thu, 07 May 2015 15:58:00 EST The National Park Service has issued a prospectus soliciting proposals in response to a business opportunity to operate overnight accommodations, food and beverage, retail, and other related services within Sequoia National Park. For the prospectus, visit https://concessions.nps.gov/seki004-16.htm. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/soliciting-proposals-to-provide-hospitality-services-in-sequoia-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/new-chief-ranger.htm Thu, 02 Apr 2015 16:32:00 EST Edward (Ned) Kelleher has been hired as the new chief ranger at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. As chief ranger, Ned will be responsible for overseeing 180 staff performing wilderness management, wildland and structural fire, law enforcement, emergency medical services, search and rescue, fee collection, and visitor management. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/new-chief-ranger.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/parksjoinnationalfindyourparkmovement.htm Thu, 02 Apr 2015 05:22:00 EST Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks joins parks, programs and partners across the country to encourage everyone to find their park and share their stories online at FindYourPark.com. Launched this week by the National Park Service and the National Park Foundation, Find Your Park is a public awareness and education campaign celebrating the milestone centennial anniversary of the National Park Service in 2016 and setting the stage for its second century of service. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/parksjoinnationalfindyourparkmovement.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/npstoreleasefinalwildernessstewardshipplanforseki.htm Wed, 01 Apr 2015 09:39:00 EST The Environmental Protection Agency’s notice of availability for the Wilderness Stewardship Plan / Final Environmental Impact Statement (WSP/FEIS) for Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks will be published in the Federal Register on Friday, April 3, 2015. The National Park Service (NPS) will issue a Record of Decision 30 days or more after the Federal Register notice of the WSP/FEIS. The WSP/FEIS and additional information is available on the NPS Planning, Environment and Public Comment (PEPC) website at https://parkplanning.nps.gov/sekiwild or by calling Nancy Hendricks, environmental protection specialist, at (559) 565-3102. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/npstoreleasefinalwildernessstewardshipplanforseki.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/endangeredsierranevadabighornsheeprestoredtoyosemiteandsequoianationalparks.htm Mon, 30 Mar 2015 07:03:00 EST A multiagency operation was recently concluded that returned two herds of endangered bighorn sheep to locations in Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon National Parks, Inyo National Forest, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, worked together on the complex operation in the Sierra Nevada. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/endangeredsierranevadabighornsheeprestoredtoyosemiteandsequoianationalparks.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/public_welcome_to_comment_on_proposed_hazard_tree_mitigation.htm Wed, 28 Jan 2015 05:56:00 EST SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, CA – The public is welcome to comment on a proposed project by the National Park Service (NPS) to mitigate tree hazards by (primarily) removing dead and dying trees that pose a risk to public safety in the Cedar Grove area of Kings Canyon National Park. A total of 1,126 trees, mostly ponderosa pine and white fir (no giant sequoias), are currently identified as hazards and recommended for mitigation in Cedar Grove due to drought and bark beetle mortality. For more information or to make electronic comments, visit the Planning, Environment, and Public Comment website at: https://parkplanning.nps.gov/seki. If you have specific questions or concerns related to this project, contact Nancy Hendricks at 559-565-3102. A 30-day public comment period starts on Wednesday, January 28, 2015. All written comments about this project must be transmitted, postmarked, or hand-delivered by February 27, 2015. For more information, please visit the NPS Planning, Environment and Public Comment (PEPC) website: https://parkplanning.nps.gov/seki. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/public_welcome_to_comment_on_proposed_hazard_tree_mitigation.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/mlkdayofserviceeducation.htm Thu, 08 Jan 2015 13:42:00 EST The National Park Service invites the public to participate in a day of volunteer service and education at Sequoia National Park on Monday, January 19, 2015, on the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday. This event will be held from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Foothills Visitor Center at 47050 Generals Highway, Three Rivers, CA 93271. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/mlkdayofserviceeducation.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/npsseekspubliccommentsononproposedrestoration.htm Wed, 10 Dec 2014 08:16:00 EST The National Park Service (NPS) is initiating public scoping on a proposal to evaluate a full range of ecological restoration options to address a large erosion gully in Cahoon Meadow, located within the John Krebs Wilderness of Sequoia National Park. The purpose of this project is to protect and restore wetlands in Cahoon Meadow. To obtain supplemental information about the proposed project, please visit the NPS Planning, Environment and Public Comment (PEPC) website at: https://parkplanning.nps.gov/seki. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/npsseekspubliccommentsononproposedrestoration.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/fallwinter2014.htm Thu, 30 Oct 2014 08:45:00 EST Escape to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks soon for fall colors and/or snow. Feel like an ant in a land of giants next to the "Big Trees." Take a hike! Or, spend a relaxing day cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/fallwinter2014.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/141026_mosquitofinal.htm Sun, 26 Oct 2014 12:05:00 EST As of 4 pm on October 24, ignitions were complete on the Mosquito Prescribed Burn in the Mineral King area of Sequoia National Park. The final acreage included in the burn totaled 1,485 acres. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/141026_mosquitofinal.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/141022_mosquitocontinuing.htm Wed, 22 Oct 2014 14:05:00 EST As of 5:00 pm, October 22, ignitions are complete on 700 acres of the Mosquito Prescribed Burn in Sequoia National Park. Ignitions will continue on the remaining 785 acres throughout the next several days. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/141022_mosquitocontinuing.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/mosquitorxburn.htm Fri, 17 Oct 2014 07:00:00 EST The Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park Fire Management Program will be conducting a prescribed burn beginning on Monday, October 20, 2014, weather and air quality conditions permitting. The 1,485 acre burn is located south of the East Fork of the Kaweah River, bordered by Mosquito Creek to the east and Avalanche Creek to the west. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/mosquitorxburn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/141014_nboundaryrescheduled.htm Tue, 14 Oct 2014 06:40:00 EST Ignitions began on the North Boundary Prescribed Burn Monday, October 13, 2014, after the burn was rescheduled from a previous date. Crews were able to complete 60 acres of the burn on Monday. Ignitions are continuing as of Tuesday morning. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/141014_nboundaryrescheduled.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/141006_northboundaryburn.htm Mon, 06 Oct 2014 13:06:00 EST Fire crews plan to begin ignitions on the North Boundary Prescribed Burn in Kings Canyon National Park on Wednesday, October 8, weather and air quality conditions permitting. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/141006_northboundaryburn.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/141003_firerestrictend.htm Fri, 03 Oct 2014 03:11:00 EST Effective Friday, October 3, 2014, Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks are lifting fire restrictions inside the parks. Recent rain and shorter and cooler days have reduced fire danger. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/141003_firerestrictend.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/141001_hikersfound.htm Thu, 02 Oct 2014 03:22:00 EST Searchers located two missing hikers in a remote area of Kings Canyon National Park late in the afternoon on Wednesday, Oct. 1. Rommel and Marisol Pompa are in good condition. Five rescuers assisted the couple Wednesday evening and will hike out with them on Thursday, Oct. 2. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/141001_hikersfound.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/141001_raelakessar.htm Wed, 01 Oct 2014 06:23:00 EST Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are currently conducting a search and rescue operation in and around the Cedar Grove area for Rommel and Marisol Pompa who failed to return from their backpacking trip as scheduled on Monday, Sept. 29. The married couple planned to hike the Rae Lakes Loop, departing from Cedar Grove on the Woods Creek trail and returning via the Bubbs Creek trail. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/141001_raelakessar.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/20140923_npld.htm Tue, 23 Sep 2014 11:14:00 EST On Saturday, Sept. 27, 2014, the National Park Service and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers invite the public to enjoy and care for their public lands through a special volunteer program at Lake Kaweah and Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Volunteers will work on a variety of tasks to beautify the parks. Free lunch will be provided to registered volunteers. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/20140923_npld.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/20140923_redwoodfirecontained.htm Tue, 23 Sep 2014 10:44:00 EST As of Sept. 23, 2014, the Redwood Fire in Kings Canyon National Park is 100% contained at 5 acres. Two National Park Service fire crews took suppression action on the wildfire. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/20140923_redwoodfirecontained.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/20140922_redwoodfire.htm Mon, 22 Sep 2014 12:02:00 EST A lightning strike ignited the Redwood Fire after storms moved through the area on Saturday, September 20, 2014. The 2-3 acre fire is located west of Big Baldy, near the Redwood Mountain Grove, at approximately 6,000 feet in elevation. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/20140922_redwoodfire.htm https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/public-invited-to-comment-on-wilderness-ranger-station-environmental-assessment.htm Mon, 15 Mar 2010 07:08:00 EST The National Park Service (NPS) has released an environmental assessment (EA) that analyzes long-term options for three deteriorating wilderness ranger stations located at Le Conte Canyon, Rae Lakes, and Crabtree Meadow in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. https://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/public-invited-to-comment-on-wilderness-ranger-station-environmental-assessment.htm