Yosemite vs. Sequoia National Park: Which California Park Is Worth It?
California is home to some of the most breathtaking national parks in the U.S., but when it comes to Yosemite National Park and Sequoia National Park, choosing between them can be tough. Both parks offer stunning landscapes, incredible hiking trails, and unforgettable outdoor experiences, yet they each have their own unique appeal.
Yosemite is iconic, dramatic, and packed with world-famous landmarks, while Sequoia is quieter, more rugged, and home to the largest trees on Earth. Whether you’re looking for jaw-dropping granite cliffs, epic waterfalls, or peaceful forest trails, here’s how these two incredible parks compare.
Yosemite National Park: Iconic Views & Epic Adventures
Yosemite National Park is one of the most famous national parks in the world, drawing millions of visitors each year. Known for its granite cliffs, powerful waterfalls, and scenic valleys, it’s the ultimate destination for hiking, rock climbing, and nature photography.
Famous Landmarks & Must-See Views
El Capitan: A Rock Climber’s Dream
One of the most recognizable landmarks in Yosemite, El Capitan is a 3,000-foot granite monolith that attracts rock climbers from around the world. Even if you’re not climbing, watching daredevils scale its vertical face is an unforgettable sight.
Half Dome: The Most Famous Hike in Yosemite
For adventurous hikers, Half Dome is a bucket-list experience. The 17-mile round-trip trek includes the famous cable ascent to the summit, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the park.
Tunnel View: The Best First Impression of Yosemite
If you’ve ever seen a postcard of Yosemite, chances are it was taken from Tunnel View. This viewpoint offers a picture-perfect view of El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome in the distance—a must-see for first-time visitors.
Hiking, Waterfalls & Outdoor Activities
Glacier Point: One of Yosemite’s Best Views
For a stunning overlook of Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point is a must-visit. You can hike up from the valley or drive (when the road is open) to enjoy sweeping views of Half Dome and Yosemite Falls.
Yosemite Falls: The Tallest Waterfall in North America
Standing at 2,425 feet, Yosemite Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in the world. The best time to see it at full force is spring and early summer, when the snowmelt is at its peak.
Mist Trail: A Hike Through Waterfall Mist
One of Yosemite’s most popular trails, the Mist Trail takes you past Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall, offering up-close waterfall views and lush greenery. Be prepared to get a little wet!
Who Is Yosemite Best For?
Yosemite is perfect for adventurers, photographers, and first-time national park visitors. If you love iconic landscapes, famous hiking trails, and breathtaking viewpoints, Yosemite is the best choice.
Sequoia National Park: Towering Trees & Peaceful Wilderness
Sequoia National Park is home to the largest trees on Earth, offering a quieter, less crowded national park experience. With majestic sequoias, scenic mountain drives, and hidden hiking trails, it’s ideal for those looking for awe-inspiring nature and peaceful surroundings.
Giant Sequoias & Famous Trees
General Sherman Tree: The Largest Tree on Earth
The General Sherman Tree is the largest tree by volume on the planet, standing at 275 feet tall and 36 feet in diameter. Walking beneath this ancient giant is a truly humbling experience.
Giant Forest: A Magical Walk Among the Sequoias
This massive grove of sequoia trees is home to thousands of towering redwoods, including the Congress Trail, which leads to some of the most impressive giants in the park.
Tunnel Log: Drive Through a Fallen Sequoia
One of the most unique spots in the park, Tunnel Log is a fallen sequoia that has been carved out so that cars can drive through it—a fun and classic Sequoia National Park experience.
Hiking, Caves & Scenic Drives
Moro Rock: The Best View in the Park
If you love panoramic views, climbing Moro Rock is a must. The 400-step staircase carved into the rock leads to breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Crystal Cave: An Underground Wonder
For something unique, Crystal Cave is a stunning marble cavern filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and underground streams. It’s one of the best hidden gems in Sequoia National Park.
Generals Highway: A Scenic Drive Through the Forest
This beautiful mountain road connects Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, offering stunning viewpoints, picnic spots, and towering trees along the way.
Who Is Sequoia Best For?
Sequoia National Park is ideal for nature lovers, families, and travelers looking for a quieter national park experience. If you love massive trees, peaceful hiking trails, and breathtaking mountain views, Sequoia is the perfect choice.
