5:30 AM: Depart from San Jose

Mode of Transportation: Private vehicle or carpool

Route: Take CA-99 S toward Visalia, then follow signs to Sequoia National Park via CA-198 E 

Travel duration: Approximately 4 hours

Cost: $30-$50

Pro Tip: Fill up your gas tank in Visalia before heading into the park, as fuel stations within the park are limited and more expensive.

9:30 AM: Arrive at Sequoia National Park

Arriving at Sequoia National Park feels like stepping into a realm of grandeur and tranquility. The first sight of the towering giant sequoias fills you with awe and a deep sense of humility. The crisp mountain air and the scent of pine heighten your senses, while the peaceful surroundings encourage reflection and connection with nature. It’s an experience that leaves you feeling inspired and grounded.

Entrance Fees: $35 vehicle entrance fee (valid for 7 days).

9:30 AM: Explore the Giant Forest Museum and Big Trees Trail

Location: Sequoia National Park

Direction: 5 minutes drive from the park entrance.

Overview: Begin your adventure at the Giant Forest Museum, where you can learn about the history and ecology of these ancient sequoias. From there, walk the Big Trees Trail, a gentle 0.7-mile loop showcasing some of the park's most majestic trees and a serene meadow.

Time Duration: Around 1 to 1.5 hours.

11:00 AM: General Sherman Tree

Location: Sequoia National Park

Direction: 10-15 minutes walk from the Giant Forest Museum

Overview: Visit the iconic General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on Earth by volume. A short, 0.5-mile paved trail leads you to this giant. Take plenty of photos and enjoy the inspiring scale of these ancient wonders.Time Duration: Around 1 hour.

12:30 PM: Picnic at Wolverton Picnic Area

Location: Sequoia National Park

Direction: 5-minute drive from General Sherman Tree.

Overview: Head to the Wolverton Picnic Area, located nearby, for lunch amidst towering trees. Pack sandwiches, fruits, and snacks before your trip, as dining options within the park are limited.

Time Duration: 1 hour

Pro Tip: Packing your food saves money and allows you to spend more time in nature.

1:30 PM: Short Hike to Moro Rock

Location: Sequoia National Park

Direction: 15-minute drive from Wolverton.Overview: Drive to Moro Rock, a granite dome offering panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada mountains. The hike is short but steep (0.5 miles one way), with around 400 steps leading to the summit but the views are worth the effort.

Time Duration: Around 1 hour.

3:00 PM: Tunnel Log and Crescent Meadow

Location: Crescent Meadow Road

Direction: 5-10 minute drive from the Moro Rock

Overview: The Tunnel Log is a fallen giant sequoia tree with a carved-out tunnel that you can walk or drive through. Nearby, take a leisurely walk around Crescent Meadow, often called the "Gem of the Sierra". You can enjoy a short hike of Crescent Meadow Loop Trail which is around a 1.6-km loop and offers tranquil views and occasional wildlife sightings.

Time Duration: Around 1.5 hours.

5:00 PM: Head Back to San Jose

Begin the scenic drive back to San Jose, reflecting on your day among the giants. Stop for dinner en route, perhaps in Visalia, which offers various dining options like Pita Kabob Gastropub (Mediterranean cuisine) or Sequoia Brewing Company (American cuisine).

Travel Distance: Approximately 4 hours to San Jose