Warm Weather Means Little Snow in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks This MLK Holiday Weekend Monday, January 18: Fee-Free Day
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Snow in the popular Big Stump area of Grant Grove has become compacted and icy. What remains is expected to significantly melt away over the weekend.
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.
With temperatures at sequoia-elevations expected to climb as high as 60 degrees over the weekend, the snow remaining from a storm several weeks ago will be mostly melted away in the most popular areas of the parks. High-traffic areas, such as the General Sherman Tree, will be icy, and visitors should continue to use traction devices for their shoes.
Snow and ice may be present in wilderness locations. Reaching these areas requires hours of physically strenuous hiking and should be undertaken by experienced hikers with appropriate gear.
In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Monday January 18th is a fee-free day at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. On Saturday and Sunday, wait time at entrance stations can be reduced by arriving prior to 9 a.m. or after 2 p.m. Bringing snacks, water, tire chains, and a full tank of gas is recommended.
Visitors are reminded that COVID-19 continues to be widespread in this region and a Stay At Home Order is in place. To enjoy the parks safely, use of face coverings is encouraged in popular areas where social distancing isn't possible and when interacting with other park visitors and park employees. All park campgrounds and lodging remain closed.
For trip planning information, please visit our website, www.nps.gov/seki. For current road and weather conditions, call 559-565-3341 (dial 1, then 1).
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks wish you a fun and safe holiday weekend!
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