Current Conditions

Alerts

Information

Alert 1 , Severity ,information ,, Tire chains may be required on park roads. Chains or cables may be required in the parks at any time. If weather is snowy, check road conditions so that you can be prepared.
more

A road construction project between the Sequoia park entrance and the Giant Forest will is underway. There will be delays and vehicle length limits.

A small storm brought snow this week to Grant Grove, Giant Forest, and Lodgepole. The snow and chilly overnight temperatures are resulting in icy conditions along park roadways. Tire chains will be needed until conditions improve. Check road conditions by calling (559) 565-3341.

Lodgepole Campground is scheduled to open on Wednesday, April 18th. Though we planned to open both the D loop (sites 61-68) and the Log Bridge Loop (sites 151-214), a water line break due to freezing temperatures has delayed the opening of the Log Bridge Loop until at least Monday. The D Loop will open as planned, and we'll also open the large parking area for RVs and the walk-in sites. We're hoping that the Log Bridge Loop will open late next week when temperatures are warmer and the water line is repaired. Other campgrounds are also open: Potwisha and Buckeye in the Sequoia foothills, and Azalea in Grant Grove.

Tire chains may be required at any time. Check road conditions by calling (559) 565-3341. If chain control is in effect, all vehicles must carry them, including those with snow tires or AWD/4WD. If you travel here, check forecasts before you come, and drive safely!

We've had reports of mapping software that's directing people to enter Kings Canyon National Park at Eshom Road. This dirt road is rough and muddy, especially in spring, and it's easy for vehicles to get stuck. Avoid this rugged route by using the entrance on Highway 180.

The rainy season has transformed the Foothills! The hillsides are green and wildflowers are blooming. Look for lupines, poppies, fairy lanterns, buck brush, and many other flowers. If you hike, be aware of conditions at creek crossings and be prepared to turn back if creeks look like they may be too dangerous to cross.

Highway 180 to Cedar Grove is scheduled to open at noon on April 27. Most services will be closed until May 11, including the grill, lodge, and market. The visitor center opens on May 24. If you travel to Cedar Grove, bring food and essentials.

Mineral King Road is scheduled to open at noon on May 23.

Weather

It's always a good idea to check forecasts before your visit.

Because of the extreme elevation range in these parks, weather conditions vary widely between areas. In summer, the sequoia groves have comfortable temperatures and the foothills are hot and dry. Snow lingers on high-mountain passes well into summer. In fall, some areas close or reduce their hours. Winter brings snow to sequoia groves and rain to the foothills. Be prepared for tire chain requirements. Spring is a great time to hike in the foothills and snow begins to melt at higher elevations.

Tire Chains and Winter Driving

Snow and ice may be on park roads any time from early fall through late spring. It varies from year to year, but it's important to be prepared. Due to constantly changing conditions, please call 559-565-3341 (press 1, 1) for current, 24-hour road status and advisories.

Before you visit, check our winter driving information, which includes a list of locations near park entrances where tire chains can be rented or purchased.

Snow Chains and Cables

This video demonstrates how and when to install tire chains and/or cables on vehicles when visiting Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, CA. (MPEG/mp4)

Duration:
5 minutes, 35 seconds