The 6 Best National Park Tours in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are a treasure trove of towering giant sequoias, rugged canyons, and star-studded skies. Unlike many parks that rely on self-guided exploration, these tours offer a chance to experience the parks with expert guides, personalized routes, and special access—perfect for those who want more than just a quick drive-by. Whether you’re after a relaxed sightseeing day, a vigorous hike, or a night under the stars, you’ll find options here that fit your style.
These tours range from small-group sightseeing trips to private hikes, snowshoe safaris, and even stargazing sessions. They cover key highlights like the General Sherman Tree, Moro Rock, and Tunnel Log, but also include lesser-known spots and unique activities. Planning your visit becomes easier when you know which experience suits your interests and energy level—so let’s dive into the best options.
1. Sequoia National Park Small Group Tour from Three Rivers
For a comprehensive and comfortable introduction to Sequoia National Park, this small-group tour checks all the boxes. It’s designed for first-time visitors who want to see the highlights without the hassle of planning or crowded lines. The tour includes park entrance fee, a complimentary picnic lunch, and live commentary that adds context to the stunning scenery.
Touring in a private vehicle, you’ll visit iconic spots like the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on the planet, and the Tunnel Log, where you can walk or drive under what’s left of a fallen giant. An optional climb to the Moro Rock lookout offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. With a maximum group of 10, the pace is relaxed, allowing plenty of time for photos, questions, and enjoying the scenery. Reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge and personable style, often mentioning how the small group feel made the experience intimate and flexible. The included lunch and skip-the-line access make it a good value for a half-day outing.
Bottom Line: A top choice for newcomers wanting a well-rounded, guided experience that covers the essentials and some hidden corners.
2. Private Guided Hiking Tour – Sequoia National Park
If you’re wanting a more personalized, in-depth experience, the Private Guided Hiking Tour offers the chance to explore both Sequoia and Kings Canyon with your own guide. It’s ideal for those who prefer to skip the busloads and focus on what interests them most. This tour includes visits to the General Sherman Tree, the Moro Rock Trail, and the Crescent Meadow Loop, with a flexible itinerary tailored to your fitness level and curiosity.
What makes this tour stand out is its private nature—your guide can customize the route, whether you want to hike through groves of giant sequoias or learn about the park’s native flora and fauna. The guide also supplies practical gear like first-aid and toilet kits, making it a comfortable and safe outing. Feedback highlights how knowledgeable guides like Krista bring the forest to life and cater to kids’ interests. It’s especially suited for active travelers who want a hands-on, immersive day in nature.
Bottom Line: For those seeking a flexible, private experience with expert guidance, this tour offers maximum customization and learning.
3. Sequoia National Park Adventure from Tulare
This full-day, private tour from Tulare is perfect if you want to see the largest trees and iconic spots but also customize your own adventure. It covers walking among giant sequoias, stops at vista points, and includes a hike to the top of Moro Rock. You can also explore the visitor’s center and museum or walk around a meadow, depending on your interests.
The guide, Mike, is praised for his knowledge and ability to avoid crowds—a bonus during busy weekends or peak seasons. The tour is flexible, with the option to extend or shorten activities based on your preferences. The value is high considering the personalized service and ability to hit all the key highlights in one day. Reviews describe it as a stress-free, enriching experience that makes the trees and landscapes come alive through story and observation.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers who want a full, flexible day with a private guide, especially if you appreciate a personalized touch.
4. Sequoia National Park Private Tour
For those who prefer a luxurious, guided experience, the Sequoia National Park Private Tour offers the comfort of a luxury SUV and the expertise of former National Park Rangers. This 4-hour tour is limited to small groups and is run by a family-owned company committed to high standards of service. The guide, Kacey, takes you to highlighted spots like the General Sherman Tree and Canyon viewpoints, but also provides opportunities to see wildlife and majestic vistas.
What sets this apart is its personalized service and the option to customize stops based on your interests. It’s perfect if you want a quick, quality overview with the comfort of a private vehicle and in-depth commentary. Reviewers note how the guide’s local knowledge and friendly attitude enhance the experience, making it feel like exploring with a knowledgeable friend.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a quick, intimate, and comfortable introduction to Sequoia with a professional guide.
5. Private Snowshoe Adventure – Sequoia National Park
When winter transforms Sequoia into a snow-covered wonderland, this Private Snowshoe Adventure is an ideal way to experience the park’s giant trees in a whole new light. Led by Krista, your group will trek about 2.5 miles to Bear Hill, tracking wildlife and enjoying the stillness of a snow-blanketed forest.
Included are snowshoes, warm drinks, and expert guidance, making it accessible even for beginners. Reviewers love Krista’s enthusiasm and ability to make the trek manageable for kids and adults alike. The quiet, clean snow and the opportunity to see the trees with fresh snow on their branches create an almost magical atmosphere. This trip is limited to just your party, providing intimacy and flexibility.
Bottom Line: Ideal for winter visitors who want an active, scenic, and peaceful way to explore Sequoia in winter’s hush.
6. Private Stargazing – Sequoia National Park
When night descends, Sequoia’s crowds clear out, revealing a brilliant canvas of stars. The Private Stargazing experience offers a gentle 1.5-hour session with binoculars, star maps, and a knowledgeable guide. It’s suitable for all ages and perfect for those curious about constellations, planets, and the stories behind them.
Krista’s hosting is lively and informative, making astronomy approachable for novices and enthusiasts alike. Reviewers mention how the experience offers a different perspective on the park, blending natural beauty with cosmic wonder. The session is designed to be relaxed, with plenty of time for questions and observation, and only your group is involved—no crowds or noisy tour buses.
Bottom Line: A top pick for families or couples seeking a peaceful, educational night under the stars.
How to Choose Your Perfect Sequoia Adventure
Picking the right tour depends on your budget, time, fitness level, and interests. If you’re new to national parks and want a broad overview, the small group tour from Three Rivers offers great value with included lunch and skip-the-line access. For a more personalized experience, the private guided hikes or luxury tours provide tailored routes and expert insights—perfect if you love active exploration or pampering.
Snowshoeing and stargazing are better suited for visitors with seasonal interests—winter for the snowshoe trek, clear nights for stargazing. If you’re short on time but want a quick, high-quality visit, the private luxury SUV tour gets you a lot in a few hours. Conversely, if you’re looking for a full-day adventure, the Tulare adventure covers lots of ground at your own pace.
Booking early is advised, especially during peak summer months or holiday seasons, as these tours tend to fill up quickly. Think about what excites you most—massive trees, mountain views, wildlife, or night skies—and match that to the experience described.
Final Thoughts
Between guided excursions, private hikes, snowshoe safaris, and stargazing sessions, there’s a perfect way to experience Sequoia and Kings Canyon for every type of traveler. For a comfortable, comprehensive day, the small group tour from Three Rivers offers excellent value. If you crave a tailored adventure, the private options like the guided hike or luxury tour deliver personalized service and in-depth insights.
For winter visitors, the snowshoe experience offers a rare, peaceful view of the park’s giant trees cloaked in snow. Nighttime sky watchers should consider the stargazing tour to see the cosmos from a park free of light pollution. Whatever your style, early booking and a bit of planning will ensure you get the most out of your trip to this magnificent part of California.