It was a close call for sure. Had the government not stepped in to protect the land that today makes up these magnificent parks, the Giant Sequoias may have been lost forever. These amazing trees are a natural wonder everyone should see at least once in their lifetime. And the trees in the parks are not the only natural wonder. As John Muir observed over 100 years ago, the valley of Kings Canyon, surrounded by its towering cliffs, is as equally breathtaking as Yosemite. Yet today, only a small fraction of the number of people who visit Yosemite make it to Kings. In this episode, we talk about our visits to these parks and what it’s like to spend a few days walking amongst giants.
Some topics we discuss include:

When our Photo of the Day Contest began and how Karen ended up becoming the sole judge of our travel photos

How we found out that Sequoia and Kings Canyon are managed as one unit

Matt’s filing system for all of our park literature

Hiking to the largest tree in the world in The Giant Forest in Sequoia NP

Other must-see sites close to The Giant Forest like Moro Rock and a tree you can drive through

Staying at the Wuksachi Lodge in Sequoia and what Matt tried to buy in the gift shop

Visiting Grant Grove in Kings Canyon NP and the 2nd-largest tree in the world

Camping and hiking deep in Kings Canyon

And in our mail bag segment, we answer a question about which is better for hiking The Narrows in Zion National Park, trekking poles or one of those long, wooden poles you rent from a local outfitter.

Links to more information:

Click here to see photos from our trips to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

Sequoia and Kings Canyon official website.


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