Big Trees, Small Costs (Sequoia and Kings Canyon)

In keeping with our usual budget friendly way of traveling, we found two amazing cost-saving destinations while roadtripping through California – Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.

Why You Should Visit

Let’s start with the obvious – the scenery. These parks are incredibly beautiful. Gigantic sequoias stretch to the sky, creating a forest that is truly awe inspiring. Mountains are perched along the skyline with beautiful meadows sinking below. These parks are definitely a must see.

These Parks Are a Travel Bargain

One entrance fee covers both parks! That is a Broke Teachers Travel kind of bargain. At the time of this article, the basic entrance fee for both parks is between $20 and $35. However, if you have the America the Beautiful pass then you can use it here. That makes it an even better deal.

If you haven’t heard of the America the Beautiful pass be sure to check it out. It is a phenomenal deal. It costs $80 for the year and gives you entrance to the majority of U.S. National Parks.

What You Need to Know

• No reservations are needed for these parks
• The parks are joined by the General’s Highway
• Depending on the time of year, roads may close due to weather
• Little to no cell service in a lot of areas

How to Prepare for Your Visit

• Download the National Parks app. This app allows you to use maps offline.
• Make sure you have a full tank of gas, sometimes gas stations are closed.
• Do your research and find your “must-sees” before you go
• Be aware that there are switchback roads and steep drop offs. This can make driving uncomfortable for some people.

More Than One Day Parks

While we only had a day in our schedule, there is definitely enough to see and do over multiple days in these parks. If you are into hiking or just want to hang out at a local lodge, the parks offer enough beauty and adventure to fill multiple days.

Our Personal Experience

We only had a day in these beautiful parks, but that was enough for us to see our top picks.

These parks offered easy access to everything we wanted to see and do. There were wide accessible walkways everywhere.

We were in awe of the massive sequoias. Standing next to one of these giant trees makes you feel so small. There is definitely a return trip in our future. We highly recommend this budget-friendly destination. Be sure to check out our video on Sequoia Kings Canyon National Parks Here.

Looking for more budget-friendly destinations? Be sure to check out our post on another park close to Sequoia Kings Canyon, Yosemite National Park. Yosemite National Park – What You Need to Know.

And remember, break the monotony, not the bank.

–Marnie and Jeff