An official website of the United States government
Here's how you know
Official websites use .gov A
.gov website belongs to an official government
organization in the United States.
Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A
lock (
) or https:// means you've safely connected to
the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official,
secure websites.
2026 Designations, Closures, Permit Requirements, and other Restrictions
The Superintendent’s Compendium is the summary of park specific rules implemented under 36 Code of Federal Regulations (36 CFR). It serves as public notice, identifies areas closed for public use, provides a list of activities requiring either a special use permit or reservation, and elaborates on public use and resource protection regulations pertaining specifically to the administration of the park.
Click on each Part below for detailed information.
Administrative Orders
Adminstrative orders are issued when there is a need for a timely change to the regulations in the Superintendent's Compendium. Administrative orders include a justification—called the "finding"—for why a change was needed. Administrative orders are usually temporary, but can become part of the formal Compendium during a future Compendium update.
Adminstrative Order 26-005
Determination to Change Sequoia and Kings Canyon Regulations
Regulation Change:
Pursuant to the procedures in Appendix M of the parks’ Fire and Fuels Management Plan (FFMP), Stage 1 fire restrictions are in effect as of 6:00 a.m. Monday June 8, 2026.
Restrictions:
Wood and charcoal fires (including wood-burning stoves) are prohibited in all developed campgrounds below 3,000 feet elevation (South Fork, Potwisha, Buckeye).
Wood and charcoal fires (including wood-burning stoves) are prohibited in Hospital Rock and Ash Mountain picnic areas.
Wood and charcoal fires (including wood-burning stoves) are prohibited below 6,000 feet elevation in undeveloped campsites (wilderness/backcountry).
Smoking is prohibited below 6,000 feet elevation, except: within an enclosed vehicle, a building in which smoking is allowed, a campground or picnic area where wood and charcoal fires are allowed, or a designated smoking area.
Regulations regarding gas fires remain unchanged.
Authority: 36 CFR 1.5(a)(1)
Finding:
Pursuant to the parks’ FFMP Appendix M, two of the three following trigger conditions have been met:
Foothills annual grass has cured to about the 3,000-foot level for all exposures.
one or more adjoining national forests have implemented fire restrictions.
Administrative Order 26-001
Determination to Change Sequoia and Kings Canyon Regulations, Regulation Change:
Closure Order – Portion of a Park Area:
The following park area administered by the National Park Service within Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks is closed, beginning 0600 hours on January 12, 2026, until relaxed or rescinded:
An area extending 50 feet from the edge of both sides of the South Fork Road from the Park Boundary to the historic South Fork Campground.
Authority: 36 CFR 1.5(a)(1)(2)
Notice:
This administrative order applies to all individuals subject to the regulatory authority of the National Park Service within the boundaries of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, except:
Employees or contractors assigned to road construction and oversight responsibilities
Other individuals authorized by the Chief Ranger or their designee.
Finding:
During the flooding events in March 2023, the South Fork campground and road were washed out during land slide events. The parks have completed compliance and secured Disaster Supplement funding to conduct repairs to the road. During construction on the narrow road without a shoulder, there will be construction equipment that precludes the possibility of passenger vehicles passing through absent significant traffic control that would delay the project and expand the cost of the construction. The road between the boundary and the beginning of the construction is needed for materials and equipment storage.
There are other opportunities to hike trails in the foothills, along a river, and to wilderness areas that contain giant sequoia trees in the vicinity. Access to the Ladybug and Garfield Grove trails will remain open but will not have easy access. For maximum efficiency of construction and to provide for the safety of the visiting public, this strict closure will be maintained until construction is completed (anticipated May 2026) or at such time as the safety and efficiency concerns have been eliminated.
2026 Compendium
In accordance with the regulations and the delegated authority provided in Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations (“36 CFR”), Chapter 1, Parts 1-7, authorized by Title 16 United States Code, Section 3, the following provisions apply to all lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Unless otherwise stated, these regulatory provisions apply in addition to requirements contained in 36 CFR, Chapter 1, Parts 1-7.
As required by Section 1.5(c), written determinations have been provided to explain the reasoning behind the Superintendent’s use of discretionary authority. Determinations are provided as footnotes, included in a separate expandable tab below.
This Compendium is effective June 16, 2026.
Click on each Part below for detailed information.
(a)(1) Visiting hours, public use limits, closures, and area designations for specific use or activities.
PUBLIC USE LIMITS
The Pinewood Picnic Area is closed to all use from dusk to dawn, except by permit.1
The Moro Rock/Crescent Meadow Road is closed to single vehicles over 22 feet long and all combination vehicles when the Park’s shuttle bus system is in operation and closure signs are posted.2
Snow play is prohibited within fifty feet of buildings and roads, except in designated snow play areas (Wolverton, Columbine and Big Stump Picnic Areas). The Superintendent may close areas to snow play by posting signs in conspicuous locations; snow play in violation of posted signs is prohibited.3
Recreational vehicles (RVs) are prohibited in all group camp sites except Dorst. A maximum of two RVs or trailers are permitted for each Dorst group site. Use is limited to the inside of the RV (cooking, sleeping, recreation, etc.) All other activities must take place out of the parking area.4
Possession of a glass container within 50 feet of any river is prohibited, except within designated campsites and picnic areas.5
CLOSURES – ROADS
The following roads are always closed to public motor vehicle traffic (except bicycles):
The Shepherd Saddle Road.7
Park Ridge Road
Middle Fork Road (temporary closure until repaired)8
The following roads are closed to public motor vehicle traffic(including bicycles)during the winter months when posted or gated: 9
Crystal Cave Road
The Generals Highway between Red Fir Maintenance Area and the Wye, or portions thereof, between closed gates
All roads within the Cedar Grove area
The following roads are closed to public motor vehicle traffic(except bicycles)during the winter months when posted or gated:
Mineral King Road above the Conifer Gate at milepost 17.64.10
Middle Fork Road from Hospital Rock to Buckeye Flat Campground and to the Middle Fork Trailhead
Crescent Meadow / Moro Rock Road
Panoramic Point Road
The following roads are closed to ALL motor vehicle traffic:
All roads within the Dillonwood Grove area.11
The following former roads are closed to public vehicular traffic, including bicycles:12
All roads within the Oriole Lake Road complex within Sequoia National Park except for property owners accessing private residences.13
Colony Mill Trail from Crystal Cave Road to the Sequoia National Park boundary.14
North Fork / West Boundary Trail from Yucca Flat to Hidden Spring.
The North Grove Loop
The Sunset Trail
The Moro Rock/Crescent Meadow Road is closed to all public vehicular traffic each Saturday, Sunday, and federal holiday while the park shuttle is operating and is posted as closed (generally late-May to mid-September from 0900-1800), except:15
Bicycles
Vehicles transporting visitors with valid wilderness permits to the Crescent Meadow Trailhead,
Vehicles bearing disabled placards,
Commercial passenger carrying motor vehicles less than 22 feet in length, or
Sequoia National Park shuttles
CLOSURES – AREAS
The following areas are closed to public entry, except when accompanied by a park official, or when entry is authorized by the Superintendent:
All facilities and buildings used for the storage, treatment, or transmission of electricity, gas, telephone, waste disposal, and domestic water. The roads that service these facilities are also closed to public access when gated and posted. 16
All park helibases and helispots, including the auxiliary helispot in Ash Mountain on Shepherd Saddle Road in 2026 during construction.17
All management class 4, 5, and 6 caves. 18
All NPS housing areas and access roads where posted. 19
CLOSURES – OTHER
Rock Climbing Closures:
The following areas are closed to rock climbing from April 1 through August 15 unless conspicuously posted as open nearby. The polygons use GPS Data Format UTM NAD83:20
CHIMNEY ROCK CLOSURE DESCRIPTION: The portions of the rocks within the following polygon:
From 332897e, 4058397n southeasterly along the USFS/NPS border to 333321e, 4057713n
From 333321e, 4057713n northwesterly, in a straight line to 332486e, 4058128n
From 332897e, 4058397n in a straight line southwesterly to 332486e, 4058128n
The portions of the eastern and the southern face of Moro Rock, specifically, on the eastern face routes between (and including) the Couch Trip and Ladies on Top.
On the southern face, all routes between (and including) South Face and Slowburn.
MINERAL KING CLIFF CLOSURE DESCRIPTION: The area inside the following polygon:
From 3423736e, 4033224n below cliff east paralleling road and cliff to 342856e, 4033241n.
From 342856e, 4033241n below cliff northernly to 342846e, 4033460n above cliff.
From 342846e, 4033460n above cliff westerly to 342367e, 4033430n above cliff.
From 342367e, 4033430n above cliff southernly to 3423736e, 4033224n below cliff.
Unmanned Aircraft Closure:
Definition: The term “unmanned aircraft” means a device that is used or intended to be used for flight in the air without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the device, and the associated operational elements and components that are required for the pilot or system operator in command to operate or control the device (such as cameras, sensors, communications links). This term includes all types of devices that meet this definition (e.g., model airplanes, quadcopters, and drones) that are used for any purpose, including recreation or commerce.
Closure: Launching, landing or operating an unmanned aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks is prohibited except as approved in writing by the Superintendent.21
Shared Food Storage Lockers:22
Storing non-food items in shared food storage lockers is prohibited.
Storing caches of food in shared food storage lockers within campgrounds is prohibited unless the owner of food cache is legally camped nearby.
Storing caches of food at wilderness trailheads is prohibited unless the food would be left in a vehicle while on a wilderness trip.
Storing caches of food at wilderness trailheads for the purpose of resupply is prohibited.
(a)(2) Specific use or activity designations, conditions, and restrictions:
Climbing or attempting to climb Giant Sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum) trees is prohibited without a permit.23
It is prohibited to enter park caves until clothing (worn or carried) and other supplies and equipment (cameras, purses, packs, pads, food, or other portables) that have been inside any cave, mine or other environment that could potentially expose these items to white-nose syndrome fungus are disinfected according to the current US Fish and Wildlife Service protocols.24
The use of flotation devices, boats, or rafts is prohibited on the South Fork of the Kings River from Bubbs Creek Bridge downstream to the Kings Canyon National Park boundary. This does not include personal floatation devices (life-jackets).25
Generator use is prohibited in the following campground areas: Lodgepole sites 36- 60 and sites 69 – 150, and Dorst sites 74 – 127.26
Generator use is prohibited in Lodgepole and Dorst Campgrounds except during the following hours: 8 a.m. – 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. in designated sites.27
Passenger buses are prohibited from idling their engines for more than five minutes when not underway, except they may idle for up to 15 minutes to allow the driver to complete their legally required Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection on all park roads and parking lots within Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks:28
Filming, still photography, and audio recording activity may require a permit, consistent with 54 U.S.C. 100905.29
Filming, still photography, and audio recording activity that occurs in closed areas, requires exclusive use of a site or area, or involves a set or staging equipment other than handheld equipment (such as a tripod, monopod, and handheld lighting equipment) requires a permit, unless the activity is affiliated with an activity or event that has been allowed under a written authorization, such as a special use permit.
Filming, still photography, and audio recording that involves more than eight individuals requires a permit, unless the NPS has specifically notified an individual or group that a permit is not required, or if the activity is affiliated with an activity or event that has been allowed under a written authorization, such as a special use permit.
If a permit is required for the reasons stated above, or if the NPS otherwise determines and then notifies an individual or group that a permit is required for a filming, still photography, or audio recording activity, then engaging in that activity without a permit is prohibited. Violating a term or condition of a permit issued by the NPS for a filming, still photography, or audio recording activity is prohibited, and may result in the suspension or revocation of the permit, in addition to any penalties that may apply under 36 CFR 1.3.
Section 1.6(f) – Activities requiring a permit30
It is prohibited to engage in the following activities without a permit:
§1.5(a)(2) Some filming, still photography, and audio recording (depends upon the facts and circumstances; contact the park for more information). 36 CFR 1.5(a)(2) and 54 U.S.C. 100905.
§2.4(d) Carrying or possessing a weapon, trap, or net
§2.5(a) Specimen collection (taking of plants, fish, wildlife, rocks or minerals)
§2.10(a)Overnight camping
§2.12Audio Disturbances
(a)(2) Operating a chain saw in developed areas
(a)(3) Operation of any type of portable motor or engine, or device powered by a portable motor or engine in non-developed areas
(a)(4) Operation of a public address system in connection with a public gathering or special event for which a permit has been issued pursuant to §2.50 or §2.51.
§2.13(a)Lighting or maintaining a fire
§2.15(e) Possession of pets by park residents
§2.16(g) Overnight use of horses and pack animals in wilderness areas
§2.17 Aircraft and Air Delivery
(a)(3) Delivery or retrieval of a person or object by parachute, helicopter or other airborne means.
(a)(3) Launching, landing, or operating unmanned aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service (NPS), except in cases where UAS missions follow the guidance outlined in NPS Reference Manual 60.
(c)(1) Removal of a downed aircraft.
§2.23(b) Entry to the park and use of campgrounds
§2.37 Soliciting or demanding gifts, money, goods or services (pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit issued under §2.50, §2.51, and §2.52).
§2.38Explosives
Use, possess, store, transport explosives, blasting agents
Use or possess fireworks
§2.50(a) Conducting a sports event, pageant, regatta, public spectator attraction, entertainment, ceremony, or similar events.
§2.51(a) Public assemblies, meetings, gatherings, demonstrations, parades and other public expressions or views in groups exceeding 25 people.
§2.52(a) Sale or distribution of printed matter that is not solely commercial advertising (printed material that is solely commercial advertising is prohibited) in groups exceeding 25 people.
§2.60(a) Grazing of horses and pack animals (wilderness permit)
§2.60(b) Stock use (except day use). Stock is defined as horses, mules, donkeys, burros, and llamas only.
§2.61(b)Residing on federal lands.
§2.62 Memorialization: Erection of monuments (requires approval from Regional Director)
§4.11(a) Exceeding of established vehicle load, weight and size limits.
§5.1 Advertisements (display, posting or distribution).
§5.2(b) Sale of intoxicants on private lands.31
§5.3 Engaging in or soliciting any business (requires a permit, contract or other written agreement with the United States, or must be pursuant to special regulations).
§5.4(a) Commercial transportation of passengers by motor vehicles.
§5.5(a) Commercial photography: Still photography of vehicles, or other articles of commerce or models for the purpose of commercial advertising
§5.6(c) Use of commercial vehicles on park area roads (The superintendent shall issue a permit to access private lands within and adjacent to the park when access is otherwise not available).
§5.7 Construction of buildings, facilities, trails, roads, boat docks, path, structure, etc.
§5.10(a) Operation of eating, drinking or lodging establishments
§7.8 Special Regulations: Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
(c)(1) Constructing, rebuilding, or altering any building, water supply or sewage disposal system.
(e)(2) Snowmobile use – limited to providing access to owners of private property in Wilsonia and Mineral King.
36 CFR PART 2 – RESOURCE PROTECTION, PUBLIC USE AND RECREATION
Section 2.1 – Preservation of natural, cultural, and archeological resources
(a)(4) Dead wood on the ground may generally be collected for use as fuel for campfires in the parks. Collecting and removing wood from the park without a permit is prohibited. Collecting wood in the following locations is prohibited:32
Where campfires are prohibited,
Sequoia Groves listed in Table 5 (p. 65) in the Wilderness Stewardship Plan (WSP)
All other areas listed in Section 2.13
(c)(1), (c)(2) The following fruits, nuts, and berries may be gathered by hand for personal consumption or use restricted to the amounts listed below. It is prohibited to gather other than by-hand (no tools, equipment, machinery, etc.)33
The following is prohibited:
Gathering more than one (1) pint per person, per day, of:
Blackberries
Bilberries and Huckleberries (Genus Vaccinium)
Currants and Gooseberries (Genus Ribes)
Elderberries (berries)
Raspberries
Strawberries
Sourberry (berries) (Rhus trilobata)
Thimbleberries
Gathering more than one (1) gallon per person, per day, of:
California Bay Laurel nuts
California Grape (fruit only)
Chinquapin (nuts)
Manzanita (berries)
Pinyon (nuts)
Gathering more than ten (10) gallons per person, per day, of:
Acorns
Section 2.2 – Wildlife Protection
(d) The transporting of lawfully taken wildlife through the park is prohibited unless the following conditions/routes are satisfied:
The carcass must be tagged in accordance with state law; AND
Game must be kept out of sight as much as practicable; AND
Legally taken wildlife may only be transported in the following areas:
Grant Grove Highway 180 through Grant Grove, and the Generals Highway to Highway 180 in Grant Grove, for hunters to leave the park by the most direct route without delay from adjacent National Forest lands, and for Hume Lake, Wilsonia and park residents to access their private residences.
Cedar Grove Cedar Grove Road from the park boundary to private residences within the park (park residents only).
Lodgepole Those portions of the Generals Highway and access roads from the park boundary to Wuksachi, Lodgepole or Giant Forest (park residents only).
Ash Mountain Generals Highway from the Ash Mountain Entrance to private residences within the park (private landowners and park residents only).
Mineral King Mineral King Road from the park boundary to private residences within the park in Mineral King and Silver City (cabin, owners, permittees and park residents only), or from Farewell Gap to the trailhead, and then to the park boundary or private residences within the park.
(e) Viewing of wildlife with the use of an artificial light is prohibited.
Section 2.3(c) – Fishing
Definition:
Developed Area: area within one-quarter (1/4) mile of buildings, campgrounds, picnic areas, or parking lots that accommodate more than five (5) vehicles.34
The following Special Regulation applies in addition to Federal and State law:
In waters below 9,000 feet elevation35 that are not located in a Developed Area:
It is prohibited to take Rainbow Trout, Sacramento Sucker, Kern Rainbow, Sculpin, and Roach Fish. If caught, they must be released.
Using barbless artificial flies and lures is prohibited.
Section 2.10 – Camping and Food Storage
(a) The superintendent may require permits, designate sites or areas, and establish conditions for camping:
NON-WILDERNESS CAMPING
Permits:
Expanded amenity fees, if applicable, shall be paid through Recreation.gov immediately upon campsite occupancy. Failure to pay fees is prohibited.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS (Violation of the terms and conditions is prohibited)
It is prohibited to transfer, sublet, or sell a camping permit.
If your campsite remains vacant for 24 hours after your arrival date it will be cancelled and made available on recreation.gov. You will be charged for the first night's campsite fee and a $10 cancellation fee; all other fees after that will be refunded. Camping in a canceled site is prohibited.
A campsite is considered occupied when it has been paid for and there is some evidence of occupancy (chairs, tent, camping equipment, etc.) in the site.
Designated Non-wilderness Campgrounds:
Ash Mountain: Potwisha
Cedar Grove: Canyon View, Moraine, Sentinel, Sheep Creek, Cedar Lane (parties at Cedar Lane must have stock)
Grant Grove: Azalea, Crystal Springs, Sunset
Lodgepole: Lodgepole, Wolverton (parties at Wolverton must have stock)
Mineral King: Atwell Mill, Cold Springs
Designated but under temporary closure: Buckeye Flat, South Fork, Dorst. No camping is permitted.
Conditions:
It is prohibited to camp in designated non-wilderness campgrounds for more than 30 days during the calendar year, with no more than 14 days falling between the night of June 14th and the night of September 14th.
More than six individuals sleeping in a single (non-group) site is prohibited.
It is prohibited to park more than two vehicles at any non-group site. This does not guarantee room for more than one vehicle.
It is prohibited to park off the designated parking pad or in the road obstructing traffic.
Group sites (mid-size and large) are designated on campground maps in Canyon View, Crystal Springs, and Dorst Campgrounds.
Check-out time is 12:00 pm (noon). It is prohibited to remain/leave property in a site after check-out unless the following night has been paid for.
It is prohibited to camp in campgrounds that have a closed gate and/or are posted as “Closed”.
BACKCOUNTRY AND WILDERNESS CAMPING36
Permits:
All persons are prohibited from entering areas managed as backcountry or wilderness and remaining overnight (on foot or with stock) unless they possess a valid Wilderness Use Permit issued by one of the following:
The National Park Service
The United States Forest Service
The Pacific Crest Trail Association (PCTA) - This permit is valid for those traveling more than 500 miles along the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). Permit holders may conduct day trips off the PCT, but are prohibited from camping more than ½ mile from the PCT without a permit issued from one of the government entities above.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS (violation of terms and conditions is prohibited)
Permits for overnight use are only valid for entry to the wilderness at a specified location, date, and party size.
Permits issued by the PCTA are only valid for continuous travel in the direction indicated on the permit. PCTA permits are valid only within 35 days of arrival at Kennedy Meadows South at PCT mile 702 (northbound direction of travel) or Sonora Pass at PCT mile 1017 (southbound direction of travel).
Exiting from wilderness in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks and remaining outside of wilderness overnight shall invalidate a SEKI Wilderness Use Permit.
A permit issued by the NPS shall serve as a campfire permit. All others must obtain a Campfire Permit at: https://www.readyforwildfire.org/permits/campfire-permit/. Terms and conditions of the campfire permits are listed in Section 2.13 (below).
The SEKI Minimum Impact Restrictions constitute additional terms and conditions of the permit; violation of any term or condition is prohibited. (See Attachment 2: SEKI Minimum Impact Restrictions).
The Annual Stock Use and Grazing Restrictions (See Attachments 3 and 4: Sequoia/Kings Canyon Stock Use and Grazing Restrictions) and the Recommendations for Temporary Stock Use Restrictions (see Attachment 5) constitute additional terms and conditions of the permit for groups with stock; violation of any term or condition is prohibited.
Designated Wilderness Campsites and Camping Area Restrictions37:
Camping is prohibited within 1 mile of any road or developed area.
Camping is prohibited between the trailhead and the “First Allowable camp” listed in the WSP except when those areas are completely snow covered.38
Camping on vegetation is prohibited.
Camping or staying overnight in the John Muir Memorial Shelter near Muir Pass and in the Mount Whitney Shelter on the summit of Mount Whitney is prohibited.
Camping is prohibited between the Crabtree Ranger Station and the summit of Mount Whitney for hikers traveling on PCTA issued permits.
Camping in these specific areas is prohibited:
Bullfrog Lake - within ¼ mile of the lake;
Lakes Trail area – at Heather Lake and in the Marble Fork drainage below Emerald and Pear lakes;
Eagle Lake - no camping between the trail and Eagle Lake;
Mosquito Lake - no camping within ¼ mile of Mosquito Lake #1;
Hockett Meadow - no camping between the trail and Whitman Creek; and
Timberline Lake – within ¼ mile of the lake;
Columbine Lake – within ¼ mile of the lake;
The following sequoia groves: Atwell, Big Stump, Clough Cave, Coffeepot, Dillonwood, Forgotten, Giant Forest, Grant, Lost, Muir, Sequoia Creek, and Suwanee;
Buena Vista, Big Baldy, Little Baldy, Tokopah Falls Valley, Giant Forest and Crystal Cave areas, and Marble Falls.39
Camping is prohibited outside of designated sites/campgrounds in the following areas:
Emerald Lake and Pear Lake
Bearpaw Meadow Campground
Length of Stay/Night Limits – Violating length of stay/night limits is prohibited
Camping is generally limited to stays of 14 consecutive nights within ¼ mile radius at a single location, 25 total nights per trip, and 75 total nights in SEKI wilderness per year.
Site/Area restrictions – the following sites have more restrictive length of stay/night limits.
3 night limit: Emerald and Pear Lakes (combined); and Lower and Upper Soldier Lakes (combined).
2 Night Limit: Charlotte Lake; Colony Mill Road Trail; Crabtree/Whitney Creek area; Don Cecil Trail; Dusy Basin (basin-wide); Guitar Lake/Mt. Whitney area; JMT from Woods Creek Crossing to Vidette Meadow (any one location, excluding Rae Lakes Basin, see below); Kearsarge Lakes Basin (basin-wide); North Dome; Paradise Valley (valley-wide);and Redwood Canyon (area-wide):
1 Night Limit: Hamilton Lake (basin-wide); and Rae Lakes Basin from Dollar Lake to Glen Pass (per-lake)
Party Size Limits40 - violating party size limits is prohibited
Parties with separate wilderness permits, but sharing the same affiliation (school, church, club, scout group, family, friends, etc. or any combination thereof) are prohibited from traveling or camping within one half (0.5) mile of each other if the total number of people exceeds fifteen.41
Non-stock parties:
On-trail day use – 25 people
On-trail overnight use – 15 people
Off trail in excess of ½ mile from a maintained trail – 12 people
Area specific restrictions: Area specific limits apply to all class 1 trails in areas listed.
10 people – Redwood Canyon
8 people – Colony Mill Road Trail; Don Cecil Trail; Dusy Basin; Darwin Canyon / Lamarck Col; Mount Whitney Management Area / Mount Langley; Sixty Lake Basin; and Sphinx Lakes.
Stock Parties:
The maximum number of stock allowed per camping party in SEKI wilderness areas is twenty (20). Some areas have more restrictive limits (See Attachments 3, 4, and 5).
Day Rides – 20 People, 20 Stock, 40 Combined total
On-trail overnight, spot and dunnage trips – 15 people, 20 Stock, 28 Combined total
Off-trail – 12 People, 12 Stock, 14 Combined
Area specific restrictions:
Redwood Canyon (10 People, 10 Stock)
Upper Goddard Canyon/Martha Lake (12 People, 12 Stock, 14 Combined)
Day Rides Only – 8 Combined, on-trail only:
Sixty Lakes Basin – Trail is closed to stock 1.8 miles from JMT Junction
Miter Basin above Penned Up Meadow – on the Class 1 trail.
(b)(3) Camping within 25 feet of a fire hydrant or main road, or within 100 feet of a flowing stream, river, or body of water is prohibited except in the following designated areas:
Previously well-established campsites that are more than 25 feet from the water.
(d) Conditions for the storage of food are in effect, as noted, for the following areas:
For the purpose of the following food storage restrictions, “food items” shall be defined as food (human, pet, and stock), food-tainted dishes, garbage, and recyclables (empty cans and bottles, food wrappers, etc.), toiletries such as soap, toothpaste, and cosmetics, and any creams, ointments, or lotions. Food containers, such as ice chests and coolers shall also be considered “food items”, unless they are completely empty and free of food particles. Dirty, non-disposable tableware and cookware must be washed or stored as a food item.
FAILURE TO STORE FOOD BY ONE OF THE FOLLOWING ACCEPTABLE METHODS IS PROHIBITED.
Non-Wilderness Areas:
All food items must be stored in food storage lockers except:
When food is being used, prepared or consumed,
In residences and lodging, food items must be stored inside and not be visible from the exterior.
In hard-sided motor homes or travel trailers that contain built-in refrigerators, food items must be stored inside and not be visible from the exterior. Vehicle doors and windows must be closed and shades must be drawn when the vehicle is not occupied.
Food items may not be stored in soft-topped vehicles.
In areas where food storage lockers are not provided, food items must be stored inside a vehicle trunk or, if the vehicle has no trunk, must be placed as low in the vehicle as possible and not be visible from the exterior. Vehicle doors and windows must be closed.
Wilderness Areas:
Food items must be stored in one of the following ways when not being prepared or consumed:
In a portable food storage container (pannier, steel drum with a locking metal lid, or a portable container) that is allowed by SEKI for use in the Parks (Attachment 6: SEKI Allowed Food Storage Containers for Use).42 All other container models and sizes not specifically listed are prohibited as the sole method of food storage, including those by the same manufacturers and with the same construction.
In a designated food storage locker.
Suspended from a branch with the food remaining at least twelve (12) feet above the ground, five (5) feet below the branch, and ten (10) feet horizontally from the tree trunk, or other vertical support, using the SEKI counterbalance technique. In locations without access to a food storage locker or trees adequate to hang food within these parameters, an allowed portable food storage container is required.
Specified Restricted Wilderness Areas:
The following areas are defined as the Specified Restricted Wilderness Area:
Within the wilderness area bordered by the following landmarks: Sawmill Pass and the Woods Creek drainage on the north, Forester Pass and the Kings/Kern Divide on the south, the Sierra Crest on the east, and Cedar Grove, South Fork of the Kings River, and Sphinx Crest on the west. (All trail corridors and cross-country routes within the area are included in this restriction.)
Within the Dusy Basin wilderness areas including all camp areas from Bishop Pass to the junction with the John Muir Trail in LeConte Canyon and all cross-country areas in Dusy Basin and Palisades Basin.
Within the Rock Creek wilderness areas of Sequoia National Park including all camp areas in the Rock Creek drainage, including Miter Basin, Soldier Lake, Siberian Outpost and Rock Creek proper. Specifically, the area is defined as areas (including cross country routes) in the Rock Creek drainage west of Cottonwood and New Army Passes, south of Crabtree Pass, south of Guyot Pass, and north-northwest of the Sequoia National Park boundary and Siberian Pass.
Climbing routes on North Dome.
Within the Emerald and Pear Lake Basins, encompassing the legal campsites for those lakes.
The following food storage regulations apply in the Specific Restricted Wilderness Area:
From May 1 through October 31, all parties must have SEKI allowed food storage containers with the capacity to store all food items.43 All food items must be stored in these containers when food is not being used, prepared or consumed.
Stock parties must have SEKI allowed panniers and/or steel drums with locking lids.
Section 2.13 – Fires
(a)(1) The lighting or maintaining of fires is prohibited, except in designated areas under established conditions:44
Definitions:
Campfires: Open fires (on the ground, in a provided receptacle, or in a container including burn barrels, enclosed fireplace stands, and charcoal grills) using natural or native fuels or charcoal.
Gas Fires: Fires generated by stoves with a contained fuel source (including propane, butane, white gas, natural gas, etc.) that use no other solid fuels (wood, charcoal, paper, cardboard, etc.) to remain ignited.
Flammable Liquids: Any liquid having a flashpoint below 100°F (37.8°C), except any mixture having components with flashpoints of 100°F (37.8°C) or higher, the total of which make up 99 percent or more of the total volume of the mixture.
Designated Areas and Established Conditions:
Campfires:
A fire may be ignited and maintained only by using fuel sources designed and commonly used for warmth or the preparation of food, such as charcoal briquettes or natural firewood. Lighting or maintaining a fire with other materials including, but not limited to, flammable liquids, garbage, fireworks, plastics, aerosol canisters, batteries, or other manufactured or synthetic materials, is prohibited.
Campfires are prohibited, except in:
Developed front country campgrounds with a valid camping permit.
Picnic areas shown on the park map within the established or visitor provided cooking receptacles, with a valid park entrance permit.
Park residential areas including inholdings with a valid housing agreement, travel authorization, special use permit, or property deed.
Various locations designated by special permit that may be issued by the Superintendent to private property owners or contractors for the purpose of burning slash or debris piles.
Wilderness areas with a valid Wilderness Use Permit outside prohibited areas (below):
Campfires are prohibited in the following wilderness areas45:
Kings Canyon National Park:
Above 10,000 feet elevation
Granite Basin
Redwood Canyon
Kaweah River Drainage:
Above 9,000 feet elevation
Hamilton Lakes Basin
Mineral King Valley above the Mineral King Ranger Station
Pinto Lake.
Kern River drainage:
Above 10,000 feet elevation
Tule River Drainage
Above 9,000 feet elevation
Summit Lake Basin
Special Conditions:
Only dead and down wood may be used for campfires. Chopping or removing wood from live or standing trees or other vegetation is prohibited.
It is prohibited to leave a campfire unattended.
Fires are prohibited in all Sequoia Groves except Cahoon Creek, Castle Creek, Cedar Flat, Dennison, Devils Canyon, Douglass, East Fork, Eden Creek, Garfield, Granite Creek, Horse Creek, Little Redwood Meadow, Oriole Lake Grove, Redwood Meadow, South Fork, and Squirrel Creek.
Gas Fires:
Gas fires are only permitted when produced by a stove intended for that purpose with the precise fuel designated for its use. The use of flammable liquids or gasses are regulated by 36 CFR 2.13(a)(2).
Gas fires are prohibited except in:
Developed front country campgrounds with a valid camping permit
Established picnic areas, and within 20 feet of picnic tables not located in established picnic areas with a valid park entrance permit.
Park residential areas including inholdings with a valid housing agreement, travel authorization, special use permit, or property deed.
Wilderness areas with a valid Wilderness Use Permit.
Other Conditions:
At the discretion of the Superintendent, fires may be prohibited during some periods and/or at specified locations when poor air quality conditions exist.
(c) During periods of high fire danger, the superintendent may close all or a portion of a park area to the lighting or maintaining of a fire.46
Further restrictions will be posted and published upon the superintendent’s approval of heightened Fire Restrictions. These restrictions will replace the “Designated Areas and Established Conditions” section of 2.13(a)(1) listed above.
Section 2.15 – Pets
(a)(1) Possessing a pet is prohibited except within 100 feet of the edge of established roads or parking areas open to the public, and within established campgrounds and picnic areas. Pets are prohibited on established trails.(a)(3) Park residents may leave their pets unattended and tied within the boundaries of their yards.
(a)(3) Park residents may leave their pets unattended and tied within the boundaries of their yards.
(a)(5) Failure to properly dispose of pet feces is prohibited.
(e) Park residents (NPS employees, concession employees and contractors) may keep pets in accordance with the current Management Directive No. 46 - Pet Policy.
Section 2.16 – Horses and Pack Animals47
Animals designated as Pack Animals by the Superintendent under 36 CFR 1.4 include only burros, mules, donkeys, and llamas. The use of other animals is prohibited.
(b) The use of horses or pack animals is prohibited in the following areas:
Designated campgrounds, picnic areas, amphitheaters, paved roads and paved trails and such closures as identified in the annual Stock Use and Grazing Restrictions handouts.
The Sixty Lake Basin Trail beyond a point 1.8 miles from the junction of the JMT and the Sixty Lake Basin Trail.
In areas only open to day-use, stock is prohibited to travel more than 100 yards from trails.
(d) Free-trailing or loose-herding is prohibited unless necessary for crossing steep rock passes or where exposure is great and there is danger of animals falling off the trail.
(g) Other conditions concerning the use of horses and pack animals. The following is prohibited:
Grazing except in accordance with the terms and conditions of a stock use wilderness permit.
Grazing in wilderness meadows when closed.48
Grazing in wilderness meadows from January 1 until the meadow’s opening date.
Leaving manure piles un-scattered within 100 feet of campsites.
Leaving dead stock within 300 feet from trails, designated campsites, water and water sources, in excess of 72 hours.
Failure to notify a park employee of the location of a dead animal within 72 hours of death.
Grazing the areas between the park boundary near the Kern Ranger Station and Laurel Creek.
Grazing of meadows between Laurel Creek and the Kern-Kaweah River except to parties accessing the canyon from the west, north, or east.
Bringing baled or loose hay and/or compressed hay cubes into Wilderness. 49
Bringing non-California/Nevada certified weed-free forage (baled or loose hay, hay cubes, or straw bedding) as supplemental or substitute forage or bedding into front country zones.
In areas where overnight stock use is allowed, stock traveling more than ½ mile from trails to access campsites.50
Bringing more than twenty (20) head into wilderness. Some areas have lower limits pursuant to the WSP, and as identified in the annual SEKI Stock Use and Grazing Restrictions and in the Stock User’s Guide. See Party Size Limits under Section 2.10 above.
Violating annual closures described in the memorandum “Recommendations for temporary stock use restrictions” once approved by the superintendent.
Confining stock other than by using existing hitch rails or a picket line between two trees or rocks on a flat, hard, non-vegetated site at least 100 feet away from the trail, water, and camp.
Section 2.17 – Aircraft and Delivery
(c)(1) The removal of downed aircraft, components, or parts thereof is subject to procedures established by the superintendent through written authorization. Failure to receive authorization prior to removal is prohibited.
Section 2.20 – Skating, Skateboards, and Similar Devices
The use of roller skates, skateboards, scooters, coasting vehicles, and similar non-motorized devices is prohibited, except within residential areas.
Section 2.21 – Smoking
(a) Smoking is prohibited in the following locations:
All government owned buildings and structures, including all restrooms, except employees’ residences with consent of the occupant(s).
All government owned or leased vehicles.
Within 50 feet of gasoline pumps and flammable substance storage areas.
Further restrictions will be posted and published upon the superintendent’s approval of heightened Fire Restrictions.
Section 2.22 – Property
(a)(2) Property may be left unattended for periods longer than 24 hours in following areas and under the following conditions:
Leaving a motor vehicle in excess of 30 days at trailhead parking and residential areas is prohibited.
Section 2.23 – Recreation Fees
(a) Recreation fees, and/or a permit, in accordance with 36 CFR part 71, are established for the following entrance fee areas, and/or for the use of the following specialized sites, facilities, equipment or services, or for participation in the following group activity, recreation events or specialized recreation uses. Failure to pay recreation fees is prohibited.
Entrance Fee Areas:
Park entrance fees are collected at the following locations:
Big Stump Entrance, Grant Grove
Ash Mountain Entrance, Ash Mountain
Non-Commercial Fees (America the Beautiful Passes and other legacy passes may waive certain fees):
Resident Vehicle Pass - $35.00
Motorcycle Pass - $30.00
Individual Entry Pass - $20.00
Non-Commercial Group in 16+ passenger vehicle - $20.00 per person not to exceed the price for the same seating capacity for commercial groups listed below.
Additional fee of $100/non-US Resident is required in addition to the above fees.
Commercial Group Fees:
Commercial Group, $20 per person for each US resident 16 years or older.
Additional fee of $100/non-US Resident is required in addition to the above fees.
Daily Site Use Fee Areas:
Campgrounds (Non-group, 1-6 people)
Atwell Mill $32
Azalea (summer) $32
Azalea (winter) $32
Buckeye Flat $32 CLOSED due to damage from winter storms
Cold Springs $32
Crystal Springs $32
Dorst $32 CLOSED due to damage from winter storms
Lodgepole $32
Moraine $32
Potwisha $32
Sentinel $32
Sheep Creek $32
South Fork $32 CLOSED due to damage from winter storms
Sunset $32
Group Campgrounds (Maximum occupancy)
Canyon View B (30 people) $60
Canyon View A, C, & D (40 people) $70
Canyon View G Sites (19 people) $50
Crystal Springs (15 people) $50
Dorst A & B (25 people) $60 CLOSED due to damage from winter storms
Dorst C (50 people) $80 CLOSED due to damage from winter storms
Dorst D (40 people) $70 CLOSED due to damage from winter storms
Sunset A&B (30 people) $60
Wilderness Camping Fees:
During the trailhead quota season (from late May to late September) a wilderness fee of $15 per permit, plus $5 per person is required.
Section 2.50 – Special Events
Permits are required for any special event utilizing park areas. Failure to obtain a permit is prohibited. Violating terms and conditions of a permit is prohibited.
Special events such as walk-a-thons, races, endurance runs or competitive events, commercial or otherwise, are prohibited in wilderness areas.
Section 2.51 – Demonstrations/ Section 2.52 – Sale or Distribution of Printed Matter
(b) Demonstrations of more than 25 people are prohibited except within park areas designated as available under paragraph (c)(2) when the superintendent has issued a permit for the activity.
(c)(2) The areas listed below are designated for demonstrations and the sale or distribution of printed matter. These areas may be occupied by groups of 25 or fewer persons without a permit provided that all the terms of 36 CFR 2.51 and 2.52 are met and when these locations are not being utilized for previously scheduled public or administrative purposes. (Also see First Amendment Demonstration Sites Map):
Ash Mountain: On the lawn adjacent to the picnic area that is directly across the Generals Highway from the Foothills Visitor Center as depicted on the map (see map link above).
Mineral King: The area immediately south of the Mineral King Ranger Station as depicted on the map (see map link above).
Lodgepole:
The area southeast of the Lodgepole Visitor Center adjacent to the visitor parking lot (see map link above),
The area northwest of the Giant Forest Museum (see map link above),
The Lodgepole Campground Amphitheater, or
The Dorst Campground Amphitheater.
Grant Grove:
The area next to the footpath just southeast of the Grant Grove restaurant (see map link above), or
The Sunset Campground Amphitheater.
Cedar Grove:
The east-west oriented sidewalk on the north side of the Cedar Grove Lodge, excluding the intersection with the north-south sidewalk on the west side of the Cedar Grove Lodge (see map link above), or
The Cedar Grove Amphitheater.51
Section 2.62 – Memorialization
(b) The scattering of ashes from cremated human remains is allowed without a permit. Failure to comply with the following terms and conditions is prohibited:
The remains to be scattered must have been processed by pulverization after cremation.
The scattering of remains by persons on the ground is to be performed at least 100 yards from any trail, road, developed facility, or body of water.
The scattering of remains from the air is to be performed at a minimum altitude of 2000 feet above ground level.
No scattering of remains from the air is to be performed over developed areas, facilities, or bodies of water.
No markers are permitted.
No publicity may be given to this activity.
When a permit is issued, except for the authorization to disperse human remains by scattering, nothing in the permit shall be construed as authorizing an entry or activity otherwise prohibited or restricted by law or regulation.
(a) The following load, weight and size limits, which are more restrictive than State law, apply to the following roads (does not apply to government equipment or emergency vehicles). Failure to comply with these limits is prohibited.52
Crystal Cave Road:
All vehicles with a cumulative length over 22 feet are prohibited.
Generals Highway between Potwisha and Giant Forest Museum:
Single vehicles over 40 feet long are prohibited.
Combination vehicles over 50 feet long are prohibited.
Mineral King Road:
Single vehicles over 40 feet long are prohibited.
Combination vehicles over 50 feet long are prohibited.
Moro Rock/Crescent Meadow Road:
Single vehicles over 22 feet long are prohibited.
All combination vehicles are prohibited.
This exclusion shall not apply to the following vehicles:
Government vehicles
Park shuttle busses
Vehicles with current/valid handicap placards displayed
Vehicles with current/valid Commercial Use Authorizations or Special Use Permit for Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks with access as a specific term of permit
Motorcycles with trailers
Motorhomes and trailers are prohibited in the following campgrounds and roads:
Atwell Mill
Cold Springs
Buckeye Flat
Canyon View
Panoramic Point Road
Section 4.21 – Speed Limits
(b) The speed limit is 45 MPH on all park roads except on the following routes/roads. Exceeding the posted speed limit is prohibited.
(i) 10 MPH:
Panoramic Point Road
In parking lots
(ii) 15 MPH:
On the Generals Highway where posted:
From Canyon View Drive to North of the Entrance Station
South of the Visitor Center to Alder Creek
Encompassing the Tunnel Rock visitor use area
Encompassing the Hospital Rock visitor use area
Encompassing the Giant Forest Museum visitor use area
Sycamore Drive
On the Crescent Meadow / Moro Rock Road
On the Mineral King Road where posted:
Encompassing Silver City
West of Faculty Flat to east of the Mineral King Ranger Station
Grant Tree Road below Columbine Picnic Area
On Highway 180 encompassing the Big Stump Entrance Station
(iii) 20 MPH:
On the Sherman Tree Parking Road
(iv) 25 MPH:
On the Generals Highway where posted:
From Alder Creek to Tunnel Rock
From Tunnel Rock to Hospital Rock
From Hospital Rock to the Giant Forest Museum
From the Giant Forest Museum to North of the General Sherman Tree main accessible parking
Encompassing the Lodgepole Road and River Road intersections
Encompassing the Little Baldy Trailhead parking
Encompassing the Dorst Creek Campground access road
Encompassing the Lost Grove visitor use area
On the Mineral King Road except the 15 MPH areas described above
On the Crystal Cave Road where posted
On Highway 180 where posted:
Encompassing The Wye
From Park Road to the Grant Grove Corrals
On the Redwood Saddle Road
Northside Drive
Westside Drive
(v) 30 MPH:
On the Generals Highway from north of the Entrance Station to Park Headquarters
(vi) 35 MPH:
On the Generals Highway where posted:
From the General Sherman Tree to Lodgepole
From Lodgepole to the Red Fir Gate
On the Wolverton Road
On Highway 180 where posted:
from the Big Stump Entrance Station to the Wye
From the Wye to Park Road
From the Grant Grove Corrals to the North Boundary
From the West Park Boundary at Lewis Creek to Roads End
Section 4.30 – Bicycles
(c) Routes may only be designated for bicycle use based on a written determination that such use is consistent with the protection of a park area's natural, scenic and aesthetic values, safety considerations and management objectives and will not disturb wildlife or park resources.53
Per 36 CFR 4.30 (i), electric bicycles may be allowed on park roads and the Superintendent will designate areas open to electric bicycles . Specifically, Class 1, 2, and 3 e-bikes are allowed on all roads that are open to public vehicular traffic.
Per 36 CFR 4.30 (i) the Superintendent may authorize bicycle use on an administrative roads. The following administrative roads in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, consistent with the access provided to traditional bikes in the parks' General Management Plan (2007) are open to e-bikes. See attached maps for locations of these administrative roads.
The Shepherd Saddle Road from the government corrals to the park boundary. The Shepherd Saddle Road is a historic dirt road that begins on BLM land in the town of Three Rivers, CA and ends near an administrative complex at the Generals Highway in Sequoia National Park. The road on BLM land is rutted and not easily traveled. Approximately 2.5 miles of the road is in the park and is gated at the park boundary. This short, 2.5 mile long, 20 ft wide (max) road segment is steep- -gaining 2,640 feet in elevation- -and is subject to flooding and washouts. NPS stock travels on this road as an administrative pasture. The road is maintained and utilized by the NPS for vehicular travel. A fire training ground, firing range, and helibase are also located along the road. This road is entirely outside wilderness and has been historically used by bicycles. The vegetation along this road is oak scrub. Total miles: 2.5. Total, maximum acreage: 6.1 acres.
The Park Ridge Road from near the Panoramic Point parking lot to the Park Ridge Fire Lookout. This administrative road segment is 2.5 miles long and 10-20 feet wide within Kings Canyon National Park. The Park Ridge Road is an administrative dirt road that connects the Panoramic Point Road with the Fire Lookout Tower at Park Ridge. The road is roughly 2.5 miles long and is relatively flat, gaining 200 feet in elevation. It is maintained by the NPS and is utilized for vehicular access by the NPS and utility companies, including Verizon Wireless, who has a cell tower at the terminus. The road crosses the NPS Boundary and enters Sequoia National Forest briefly near the terminus. The vegetation along this road is a mix of pine forest and meadow. Total miles: 2.5. Total, maximum, acreage: 6.1 acres.
Cedar Grove Bike Path from Sheep Creek Campground to Canyon View Campground is a paved pathway designed for administrative vehicle access and bicycle use. It is relatively flat, approximately 1 mile long and is about 8 feet wide. The alignment follows a utility corridor supporting wastewater, the path supports equipment access to the utility for maintenance and repairs.
(f) Closures and other use restrictions.
Definition: The term “e-bike” means a two- or three-wheeled cycle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts (1 h.p.).
E-bikes are allowed in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks where traditional bicycles are allowed. E-bikes are prohibited where traditional bicycles are prohibited. Except where use of motor vehicles by the public is allowed, using the electric motor to move an e-bike without pedaling is prohibited.
A person operating an e-bike is subject to the following sections of 36 CFR part 4 that apply to the use of traditional bicycles: sections 4.12, 4.13, 4.20, 4.21, 4.22, 4.23, and 4.30(h)(2)-(5).
Except as specified in this Compendium, the use of an e-bike within Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks is governed by State law, which is adopted and made a part of this Compendium. Any violation of State law adopted by this paragraph is prohibited.54
When used as an ‘Other Power-Driven Mobility Device’ (OPDMD) as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, e-bikes are permitted as OPDMDs where pedestrian traffic is allowed with the following exceptions and restrictions:
In Structures: OPDMDs will be permitted within structures and on paved walkways where the size of the OPDMD will permit easy access to turn and navigate. Their speed is limited to the flow of pedestrian traffic, or 3 MPH, whichever is less.
On Trail: In general, individuals will be responsible to determine for themselves the feasibility of utilizing an OPDMD based on the nature of the pedestrian traffic and condition of the trail. Their speed is limited to the flow of pedestrian traffic, or 5 MPH, whichever is less.
Off Trail: OPDMDs are generally not permitted off trail, except within areas impacted by roadside corridors, within campgrounds, or other areas where travel will not significantly adversely impact natural resources. Their speed is limited to the flow of pedestrian traffic, or 5 MPH, whichever is less.
Prohibitions: Several locations are not suitable for OPDMDs. In general, unpaved trails do not provide a stable surface and may include hazards (steps, switchbacks, water bars, etc.) that would impede an OPDMD. They are specifically prohibited on Moro Rock, Beetle Rock, and Muir Rock.
Certification: Employees are authorized to ask the person using OPDMDs to provide credible assurance that the device is used because of a disability. If the person presents a valid, State-issued disability parking placard or card or a State-issued proof of disability, that must be accepted as credible assurance on its face. If the person does not have this documentation, but states verbally that the OPDMD is being used because of a mobility disability, that also must be accepted as credible assurance, unless the person is observed doing something that contradicts the assurance. For example, if a person is observed running and jumping, that may be evidence that contradicts the person's assertion of a mobility disability. It is very important to understand that the fact that a person with a disability is able to walk for a short distance does not necessarily contradict a verbal assurance -- many people with mobility disabilities can walk, but need their mobility device for longer distances or uneven terrain. This is particularly true for people who lack stamina, have poor balance, or use mobility devices because of respiratory, cardiac, or neurological disabilities.55
Using an e-bike as an OPDMD in violation of this section is prohibited.
Section 4.31 – Hitchhiking
While hitchhiking, it is prohibited to:
Stand in a roadway for the purpose of soliciting a ride.
Impede traffic flow.
1 The Giant Forest area has a long history of bear problems dating to the 1920’s. It was typically one of the worst areas in the park for bear problems of every type: bears breaking into cars, cabins, and the cafeteria; bears bluff charging visitors; bears stealing food; and occasionally bears injuring visitors. When the buildings were removed, the human food source was largely eliminated, and the bear problem decreased significantly. However, bears remain in the area and will be attracted to improperly handled food items in the Pinewood Picnic Area. The nighttime closure results from the increased difficulty of keeping food items away from bears after dark; staff is less available for monitoring proper food storage and disposal, and educating visitors on the importance of such practices, after dark.
2 This closure is for visitor safety. The Moro Rock/Crescent Meadow Road is narrow; limiting the number of large vehicles on this road decreases the risk of motor vehicle accidents and enhances response times for emergency vehicles.
3 Sledding, sliding, tubing, skiing, snowboarding, and the use of similar devices for the purpose of snow play can present multiple hazards to visitors in certain locations. The closure around roads and buildings is meant to prevent injury to the snow players and other visitors where a loss of control can lead to pedestrians in roadways and visitors striking buildings where snow accumulation on roofs can have a potential risk of sliding and burying such individuals. Snow play areas have been established in both parks to facilitate the enjoyment of the parks by the visitors with reasonable limitations for safety concerns.Additionally, specific areas may be required to be posted as closed to snow play at the discretion of the superintendent. Factors involved may include the potential for damage to park resources, the potential for serious bodily injury due to the nature of the terrain, specific hazards hidden from visitors by snow, etc. These activities, outside of the designated areas, interfere with safe and efficient snow removal, which negatively impacts the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. “Roadside” and “parking lot” activities force plow operators to slow down or divert their efforts to not injure visitors or damage vehiclesparked along the road. Snow blowing operations are hampered by visitors who congregate in meadows and pullouts where the operator is intending to broadcast snow from the parking areas or roadways. These roadside activities also interfere by occupying pullouts needed for chain control operations and turning around heavy equipment.
4 No group camp sites except Dorst are large enough to accommodate even small RVs. Roads are not constructed to permit RV access. Dorst has adequate parking. Permitting two RVs per group provides reasonable access issues for individuals. Camping activities in the parking lot are a safety hazard. Sleeping, eating, recreation, etc. is provided for within the given campsite.
5 Visitors recreate in rivers in bare feet. Park employees are picking up an increasing number of glass containers, both whole and broken, as shown by data collection from 2016-2018.
6 These trails were damaged due to the KNP Complex Fire and have not yet been restored. Significant hazards exist including hidden sink holes, hazard trees, and falling rock. Additionally, the access road is closed due to partial washouts.
7 This old road is for administrative use only. NPS owned stock forages in the area and could present a hazard to passing vehicles or the stock themselves. Gates must remain locked to ensure the NPS owned stock does not escape. To this end, public vehicular access is not feasible.
8 The Middle Fork Road was severely damaged during flooding events in 2023. At present, a substantive fix has not yet been completed and the road is not safe for routine public traffic. Administrative traffic is authorized with a supervisory briefing to complete necessary work for the agency.
9 These roads are closed due to snow accumulations and/or muddy conditions, and there is no winter maintenance on these roads to keep them passable to vehicular traffic. Trash collection service, water, and other visitor services are not available along these road corridors during the winter months. Staff to meet these needs, provide for visitor services and resource protection throughout the winter months is cost prohibitive. Unlimited vehicular access on an unmaintained road during the winter months can adversely affect the condition of the road surface, damaging it, and increasing both the time and cost needed to recondition the road in the spring. Crystal Cave Road leads to invaluable resources that cannot be adequately protected without routine patrol.
10 The purpose of this gate is to deter access for illegal marijuana cultivation, to insure public health and safety, and to protect natural and cultural resources.
11 This road is closed to vehicular traffic for visitor safety. The Dillonwood area was formerly a small residential community that is now a recently acquired property of Sequoia National Park. All properties are under evaluation for use; the roads, buildings and use areas are not currently maintained.
12 These former roads that are in designated wilderness have been closed by locked gates and/or boulder placements to protect natural and cultural resources from illegal activities and the effects of unauthorized vehicles. These closures are also necessary to protect the wilderness experience of park visitors seeking solitude and quiet. The Wilderness Act prohibits motor vehicles and other forms of mechanical transport.
13 These roads and portions of road are within Designated Wilderness, and are closed to vehicular traffic, except for right-of-way access to private property owners and by permit or authorization from the superintendent.
14 Most of this road runs through wilderness.
15 This closure is identified in the SEKI General Management Plan to reduce traffic congestion on the narrow roadway, prevent resource degradation by eliminating roadside parking on Giant Sequoia and other tree roots and plants, and to prevent parking congestion and minor motor vehicle collisions in overcrowded parking areas. During the period in question, the Sequoia National Park shuttle service will stop at the popular visitor attractions (Auto Log, Crescent Meadow, Tunnel Log and Moro Rock.) Visitors may take their private vehicles during the evening hours. It is necessary to reduce the amount of visitor traffic to ensure visitor safety and to prevent a slow down of the free public transportation option available to all visitors.
16 These facilities are closed to public entry to ensure both employee and visitor safety, and to prevent access to critical infrastructure systems – unauthorized access may pose a physical security threat.
17 The reason for this closure is for both employee and visitor safety. Operations involving helicopters, especially during takeoffs and landings, are regarded as hazardous. Standard operating practices set forth in both the Department of Interior Manual and the Interagency Helicopter Operations Guidelines require that the access of persons and their movement around helicopter operations be strictly controlled.
18 These caves are closed to public entry because for the following reasons:
Class 4 – These caves have been recently discovered and require further exploration and/or inventory of features to evaluate how they should be managed, or they have been known for years but have not been sufficiently inventoried.
Class 5 – These caves contain paleontological, archeological, biological, or other resources of special scientific value that would be easily altered, even by careful use of the cave.
Class 6 – These caves are closed to all use because of extreme, unavoidable hazards (rockfall, disease, dangerous atmosphere, etc.) for even the most skilled caver.
[Reference: Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks Cave Management Plan, approved January 1999.]
19 Access to park residential areas does not provide any new or unusual features that are not found elsewhere nearby. Exclusion of visitors from park residential areas ensures limited parking is available for residents and guests and creates a more secure atmosphere where there is a highly transient visitor population.
20 These areas are traditional nesting sites for Peregrine Falcons and expected to continue to be nesting sites in the future. Peregrine Falcons are an endangered species in California; they are extremely sensitive to human activity and may abandon their nests if disturbed. When upset, they have been known to dive bomb intruders. Closures protect both visitors and the falcons. Dates are determined by the averages of nesting chronology, considering potential of disturbance that would impact the nesting population.
21 The use of unmanned aircraft potentially presents unacceptable risks to visitors (collisions between unmanned aircraft and visitors, the uncontrolled fall of unmanned aircraft, contact with spinning propellers or rotors of unmanned aircraft). The use of unmanned aircraft adversely impacts visitor experience by negatively affecting scenic and natural sound opportunities, and by potentially interfering with terrestrial and avian wildlife. The use of motorized equipment is also prohibited in areas managed as wilderness (eligible, proposed, recommended or designated wilderness); approximately 96% of park lands are managed as wilderness by NPS policy. Additionally, the unregulated use of unmanned aircraft would potentially violate several other regulations in Title 36 of the Code of Federal Regulations, including §2.2 Frightening Wildlife, §2.12 - Creating an Audio Disturbance, §2.17 - Delivering or Retrieving an Object by Airborne Means, §2.34 - Making Unreasonable Noise, §2.34 - Creating or Maintaining a Hazardous Condition, and §5.13 - Creating or Maintaining a Nuisance.
22 Food storage lockers are designed to protect wildlife from accessing human food sources. The number of lockers and available space is limited. Utilizing shared public food storage lockers for other purposes impacts the capacity of an area that could lead to wildlife obtaining human food.
23 Giant Sequoia trees are found only on the western slope of the southern Sierra Nevada. Many of the world’s finest specimens are located within Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Every effort is made to protect them from potential damage and for park visitors to view them undisturbed by other humans.
24 The spread of White-nose syndrome in park caves could cause threats to wildlife. Scoping provided under programmatic PEPC Project 37818.
25 The management of this portion of the South Fork of the Kings River must meet the needs of all park users, including but not limited to photographers, fishermen, and those visitors wishing to see undisturbed sections of a free-flowing river. The use of flotation devices, boats, and rafts is contrary to the needs of other park users. This closure is also necessary due to safety hazards – such as fallen trees – to floaters, boaters, and rafters. Removal of these hazards would be contrary to park resource management policy, so this portion of river is unsafe for floating, boating, or rafting.
26 The use of generators adds an unnatural sound to a natural setting and experience. By restricting the areas in which generators may be used, parties using generators and those preferring a natural ambiance will both have the opportunity to enjoy their park camping experience.
27 The use of generators adds an unnatural sound to a natural setting and experience. By restricting the hours during which generators may be used; parties using generators and those preferring a natural ambiance will both receive opportunities to enjoy their park camping experience.
28 The idling of bus engines adds unnecessary exhaust fumes to the air and diminishes the enjoyment by park visitors of the stillness and tranquility of the park. This regulation conforms to state bus regulations.
29 Federal law at 54 U.S.C. 100905 states that permits and fees are not required for filming, still photography, or audio recording in park areas if certain requirements are met. These requirements address various topics, including, but not limited to, group size, location, equipment, potential impacts to resources and visitors, and the likelihood that the NPS will incur related administrative costs. If any of these requirements are not met, the law allows the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the NPS, to require a permit for the subject activity. Permit requirements are imposed by the superintendent under discretionary authority provided by 36 CFR 1.5(a)(2), which allows the superintendent to impose conditions or restrictions on a use or activity, consistent with applicable legislation, to implement management responsibilities. The general regulations for permits in 36 CFR 1.6 do not apply to permits issued for filming, still photography, and audio recording, which instead are governed by the statutory provisions in 54 U.S.C. 100905. The imposition of permit requirements, on a case-by-case basis, for filming, still photography, or audio recording does not require rulemaking under 36 CFR 1.5(b). Requiring a permit with reasonable terms and conditions in accordance with statutory requirements at 54 U.S.C.100905 is not highly controversial, will not result in a significant alteration in the public use pattern of the System unit, will not adversely affect the System unit’s natural, aesthetic, scenic or cultural values, or require a long-term or significant modification in the resource management objectives of the System unit, because the permit requirement is limited in time and scope to the specific activities authorized by the permit, which contain terms and conditions that protect the values, resources, and visitors of the System unit, and implements federal law.
30 Permits may be issued by the superintendent for these activities pursuant to authority vested by the various sections of the CFR.
31 Note: This section requires that the permit be issued from the Regional Director for the sale of liquor on private lands under the legislative jurisdiction of the United States.
32 Fires are prohibited in these areas due to sensitive natural ecosystems and an inability for the forests to provide adequate fuel for fires.
33 Permitting collection of limited amounts of berries and other natural products for immediate consumption will not affect the regeneration of the following plants.
34 16 USC 45b directs the Secretary of the Interior to provide for fishing by hook and line from park waters. Historical use has included these waters provided for recreational activity in support of the Organic Act of the National Park Service. Additionally, it is almost impossible to eradicate a fish population by sport fishing.
35 In areas above 9,000 elevation, the species indigenous to the park are not known to naturally exist. They were transplanted and stocked by early visitors. Since these native species at or above that elevation are considered non-naturally occurring, it is of interest to the park to remove them. These non-naturally occurring fish are also eating native indigenous frog populations.
36 The 2015 Wilderness Stewardship Plan applies limits and restrictions for camping.
37 In addition to the direction of the Wilderness Stewardship Plan (2015), the superintendent may approve recommendations annually in a memorandum titled, “Recommendations for temporary public use restrictions in wilderness”.
38 2015 Wilderness Stewardship Plan (WSP) Table 19 Page 116
39 WSP Table 19 Page 116
40 Party Size Limits (see WSP, Alternative 2, Element 6, pages 114-115)
41 Large groups in off-trail areas have the potential for two types of impacts; biophysical and social. The biophysical impacts include; vegetation trampling and removal; trail incising; social trail development; water pollution (e.g. via human waste); and campsite developments. Social impacts are primarily loss of solitude, compounded by higher visitor expectations for solitude in “off-trail” areas. These parks have seen notable, and likely unacceptable, levels of physical impacts in several popular “off-trail” areas, including those listed above. This restriction is discussed in the annual “Recommendations for temporary public use restrictions in wilderness” memorandum.
42 Note: listed panniers or containers may be disallowed at any time due to failures in the field.
43 This applies to all groups, regardless of party size, whether hiking on trail or cross-country, whether traveling with stock or receiving stock support (i.e. drop trips and/or spot trips).
44 Developed areas where fires are permitted have grills provided to contain and control ash left behind by visitors. The use of campfires outside of designated areas poses a risk of wildfire. The use of campfires in wilderness areas described is inconsistent with resource conservation. There is inadequate native fuel supply in those areas leading to the destruction of live fuel, and downed fuel that provides habitat for flora and fauna. The use of gas fires in wilderness is unrestricted. The use of gas fires in developed areas has been limited to areas established for camping and the preparation of food with picnicking. Unrestricted cooking using gas grills currently is causing issues in congested parking areas and on roadway access areas where gas grills are utilized to prepare food for dozens of visitors without adequate seating capacity or areas to stand that are out of the roadway. It is a safety concern where children and adults are wandering through traffic while attempting to eat and socialize. There have been documented cases where a single group fills a high visitor use traffic area that is designed for rapid turnover (General Grant Tree Parking Lot in particular) and does not allow adequate visitation from other parties. Noise associated with these impromptu gatherings is also a concern for visitor use areas where serenity is a valued commodity. It is contrary to the traditional use and serenity of park visitation areas to permit these types of gatherings with cooking and eating outside of established areas designated for picnicking.
This action is necessary for the maintenance of public health and safety, protection of environmental or scenic values, protection of natural or cultural resources, and the implementation of management responsibilities. Materials other than approved combustibles – especially fire accelerants and substances prone to wind transport or explosion – creates serious risks when used to light or maintain fires. These combustibles can ignite or spread wildfires that directly threaten people and valuable resources and assets. The burning of manufactured or synthetic materials can contribute to air pollution, contaminate soil and water, and be toxic to humans and the environment. Less restrictive measures, such as an education campaign informing visitors of the risks of using certain materials to light or maintain a fire, would not be commensurate with the substantial risks associated with those activities and could lead to adverse outcomes that might be prevented by establishing an enforceable condition.
45 In addition to, and based on, the Wilderness Stewardship Plan (2015), the superintendent may approve recommendations annually in a memorandum titled, “Recommendations for temporary public use restrictions in wilderness”.
46 In accordance with the Sequoia and Kings Canyon Fire and Fuels Management Plan, Appendix M, the superintendent may limit fires based on set criteria to include Stage 1 – 3 Fire Restriction Levels.
47 In addition to the Wilderness Stewardship Plan (2015), Alternative 2, Element 8, and Appendix D (Stock Use and Meadow Management and Monitoring Strategy), the superintendent may annually approve recommendations in a memorandum titled, “Recommendations for temporary stock use restrictions”.
48 Meadows may be further restricted and/or closed to grazing based on conditions – see WSP, Alternative 2, Element 8, and Appendix D. It is the responsibility of the user to check on meadow status with the Wilderness Office before beginning a trip.
49 Feed carried into wilderness must be commercially processed pellets, rolled grains, or fermented hay (e.g., Chaffhaye™).
50 Stock Access and Travel (including grazing conditions) in wilderness is quantified in the WSP, Alternative 2, Element 8, pages 71-75.
51 Determination: The above selected areas have been designated based on their suitability for such activities. Other locations are not suitable due to:
Fragile nature of park resources – large groups often tend to stray from paved areas and consistently trample park resources the NPS is legally bound to protect.
Atmosphere of peace and tranquility – visitors to Sequoia and Kings Canyon arrive with an expectation to “get away” from the hustle and bustle of city life. The National Parks are a place to reconnect with natural settings in an uninterrupted manner. The peace and tranquility in these visitor use areas, especially wilderness locations, would be severely impacted by allowing any groups to demonstrate or distribute printed matter. Even small groups may disrupt the visitor experience for which other visitors have paid.
Interference with program or administrative activities – the NPS provides interpretive talks, walks, programs, and other visitor services as part of the general admission fee to the park. Other visitors have paid for these services, provided by recreation fee dollars and other funds, and are not expected to suffer a disruption to the quality of experience of NPS sponsored programs and activities.
Interference with non-NPS programs and activities – individuals, commercial groups, contractors, concessioners, etc. obtain permits and contracts to conduct business and other activities within the National Parks, many at a cost. Even small groups may disrupt the activities of these special permit holders and contractors.
Public health and safety – these areas have been selected to promote the safety of all visitors, whether part of the groups or not. Utilizing public roads, narrow trails, congested walkways or trails for these activities could force non-participating visitors and activists to step into areas where footing is uncertain or other hazards, such as motor vehicles, are present and could lead to injury up to and including death.
Contrary to traditional use – many of the areas in the National Parks have come to have a traditional use expected by the visitors. Areas outside of these high profile visitor use areas are incompatible with disruptions and changes to traditional use of the National Parks lands. Both small and large groups could disrupt the traditional use of these lands.
52 These roads were designed without regard for traffic flow of the 21st century. They are narrow, 1 ½ lane wide 2-way traffic that do not create adequate space for turning or passing.
53 These roads are active administrative roads and have administrative vehicular traffic. Permitting bicycles on these roads will have no adverse impact on the resources.
54 PEPC Project 94763
55 PEPC 100980: On November 2, 2020, the National Park Service (NPS) published its final rule on the use of e-bikes in national parks. Effective December 2, 2020, this rule authorizes Superintendents to allow e-bikes, where appropriate, on park roads, parking areas, and administrative roads and trails that are open to traditional bicycles.
The NPS is subject to section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended (Section 504), which prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in federally assisted and federally conducted programs and activities. The NPS notes that the Department of Justice interprets requirements under Section 504 consistently with those under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which include requirements governing “Other Power-Driven Mobility Devices” (OPDMDs) at 28 C.F.R. § 35.137. When used by persons with disabilities, the NPS considers e-bikes to be OPDMDs, and, therefore, the requirements and policies governing OPDMDs under the ADA will apply to the use of e-bikes for purposes of compliance with Section 504.
OPDMDs are defined under the ADA as “any mobility device powered by batteries, fuel, or other engines . . . that is used by individuals with mobility disabilities for the purpose of locomotion . . . or any mobility device designed to operate in areas without defined pedestrian routes, but that is not a wheelchair.” 28 C.F.R. § 35.104. The NPS must make reasonable modifications to its policies, practices, and procedures to allow the use of OPDMDs by individuals with disabilities in its facilities, unless the NPS can demonstrate that the class of devices cannot be operated in accordance with legitimate safety or resource protection requirements.
Section 504 requires the NPS to make its programs and activities accessible to persons with disabilities. Individuals with disabilities may request a reasonable modification to a park’s policies, practices, and procedures, which includes requesting to use an OPDMD, like an e-bike, in areas that are not designated for e-bike use.
