Discover Three Rivers: Your Gateway to Sequoia's Giant Trees

Day 1: Giants Among Us

• Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Start your day in Three Rivers with a quick breakfast. Drive north on CA-198 to the Sequoia National Park Ash Mountain Entrance (allow 15-20 minutes). Pay the park entrance fee of $35 per vehicle (valid for 7 days). Continue driving the Generals Highway, a scenic and winding road, for about 45-60 minutes to the Giant Forest area. Park at the General Sherman Tree parking lot. Embark on the 0.5-mile paved downhill trail to the magnificent General Sherman Tree, the world’s largest tree by volume. Spend time admiring the sequoia and taking photos. The return hike is uphill (total 1 mile, allow 1-1.5 hours).
• Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Enjoy a packed picnic lunch at a designated picnic area in the Giant Forest, such as Wolverton, to save time and money. After lunch, explore the Congress Trail, a relatively flat 2-mile loop trail that branches off from the General Sherman Tree path. This trail allows you to walk among many other named giant sequoias, including The President, Chief Sequoyah, and the House and Senate groups (allow 1.5-2 hours). Optionally, stop by the Giant Forest Museum (free entry) to learn more about the ecology of the giant sequoias.
• Evening Drive back down to Three Rivers (approximately 1 hour from Giant Forest). For dinner, head to The Gateway Restaurant & Lodge. Enjoy American cuisine with beautiful views of the Kaweah River. Expect entrees to range from $25-45 per person. Budget-friendly alternative: Grab a pizza at Pizza Factory in Three Rivers, typically $15-25 per person.

Day 2: Panoramic Peaks & Subterranean Wonders

• Morning (8:30 AM - 12:30 PM) After breakfast in Three Rivers, drive back into Sequoia National Park to the Giant Forest area (~1 hour drive). Head towards Moro Rock. Park at the Moro Rock parking lot (or utilize the free park shuttle from Giant Forest Museum/Lodgepole if available). Ascend the 350-step granite stairway carved into Moro Rock for spectacular panoramic views of the Great Western Divide and the Kaweah River canyon (allow 1.5-2 hours round trip). Be mindful of heights; the steps can be steep. Afterward, take a short drive to Tunnel Log, where you can drive or walk through a fallen giant sequoia.
• Afternoon (12:30 PM - 5:00 PM) Enjoy a packed lunch at a scenic viewpoint or picnic area near Crescent Meadow. Your afternoon highlight is the Crystal Cave tour. Important: Tickets must be purchased online in advance via recreation.gov (no tickets sold at the cave). Drive to the Crystal Cave Road turnoff (near Giant Forest Museum). Park at the designated lot, then walk 0.5 miles downhill on a paved trail to the cave entrance (allow 15-20 minutes for the walk). The guided cave tour lasts 45-50 minutes, costing approximately $20 per adult. The cave maintains a cool 50°F (10°C), so bring a light jacket. Allow 1.5-2 hours total for the experience, including the walk.
• Evening Drive back to Three Rivers (~1 hour drive). For dinner, try Ol’ Buckaroo, a popular spot known for its casual atmosphere and delicious American comfort food like burgers and sandwiches. Expect to pay $15-30 per person. Alternative: Anne’s Country Kitchen for a home-style meal, also in the $15-25 range.

Day 3: River Refresh & Foothills Farewell

• Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation or a local Three Rivers cafe. Spend your morning relaxing and swimming in the refreshing Kaweah River. There are several public access points in Three Rivers, such as the area around Horse Creek Recreation Area (check for day-use fees, usually $10-15 per vehicle if using specific facilities) or various pull-offs along Highway 198. The Kaweah River can have strong currents, especially in spring, so always check local conditions and swim in designated, safe areas. Water shoes are recommended for comfort on rocky shores. This is a free activity, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM) Have a final picnic lunch by the river or grab a casual bite in Three Rivers. For a last touch of park history and scenery, drive a short distance back into Sequoia National Park (about 5 miles from the Ash Mountain Entrance) to visit Hospital Rock. This historic site features Native American pictographs and offers additional river access for relaxing by the water. You can also pick up any last-minute souvenirs at the Foothills Visitor Center, located near the park entrance.
• Evening Enjoy your final dinner in Three Rivers. Consider a repeat visit to a favorite spot or try a different local eatery. Relax and reflect on your incredible Sequoia National Park adventure before preparing for your journey home.

Day 1: Riverside Welcome & Local Charm

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Arrive in Three Rivers, California. Check into your pre-booked riverside lodging (budget approximately $180-200/night for 4 nights, totaling $720-800, leaving around $700-780 for activities, food, and gas). Settle in and enjoy the peaceful sounds of the Kaweah River. Consider packing a simple breakfast or grab coffee and a pastry at a local spot like the Kaweah Coffee Co.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Take a leisurely stroll along the Kaweah River near your lodging or explore the charming community of Three Rivers. Visit the Three Rivers Historical Museum (check operating hours, typically small donation requested) for a glimpse into the area’s past. Alternatively, drive a short distance to the Lake Kaweah Recreation Area (approx. 5-10 miles from central Three Rivers) for scenic views and a different perspective of the local landscape. Enjoy a picnic lunch you’ve prepared to save on costs (approx. $10-15 for groceries).
• Evening (6:00 PM onwards) Dine at a local Three Rivers establishment. For a casual and hearty meal, consider Ol’ Buckaroo (located behind the Anne Lang’s Guesthouse) which offers a unique outdoor dining experience with American comfort food (expect $40-60 for two, including drinks). Afterwards, relax by the river at your lodge, enjoying the stargazing opportunities away from city lights.

Day 2: Into the Giant Forest & Majestic Sequoias

• Morning (8:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Begin your full immersion into Sequoia National Park. Drive from Three Rivers into the park (approx. 45-60 minutes to the Giant Forest Museum area, ~20-25 miles). You will pay the entrance fee at the park gate, which is $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass (this covers both Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks). Head directly to the Giant Forest, starting at the General Sherman Tree trail. This iconic tree is the world’s largest by volume. Allow 1-2 hours for the round trip hike (0.8 miles paved, or longer via the Congress Trail, 2-3 miles). Afterwards, explore the Congress Trail, a relatively flat loop that winds through groves of magnificent giant sequoias. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the trees (e.g., at a picnic area near Lodgepole Visitor Center or Crescent Meadow, approx. $15-20 for groceries).
• Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:30 PM) Continue your exploration of the Giant Forest. Hike to the top of Moro Rock for incredible panoramic views of the Great Western Divide (0.25-mile steep climb with 400 steps, allow 1-1.5 hours round trip). Drive through the iconic Tunnel Log, a fallen giant sequoia you can drive (or walk) through. Conclude your afternoon with a peaceful walk through Crescent Meadow, often called the “Gem of the Giant Forest” by John Muir (1.5-mile loop, 1 hour).
• Evening (7:00 PM onwards) Return to Three Rivers (approx. 45-60 minute drive). For dinner, consider Casa Mendoza for Mexican cuisine and margaritas (expect $40-55 for two). Reflect on the day’s awe-inspiring sights of the giant trees.

Day 3: Kings Canyon Vistas & Grant Grove Giants

• Morning (8:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Today, venture towards Kings Canyon National Park. Drive from Three Rivers to the Grant Grove area of Kings Canyon (approx. 1 hour 15 minutes - 1 hour 30 minutes drive, ~35-40 miles). Your park pass is still valid. Your first stop should be the General Grant Tree, often called “The Nation’s Christmas Tree” (0.3-mile paved loop, allow 30-45 minutes). Explore the surrounding Grant Grove, including the Fallen Monarch, a hollowed-out log you can walk through. Pack another picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the Grant Grove picnic areas (approx. $15-20 for groceries).
• Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:30 PM) After lunch, take the short, scenic drive to Panoramic Point for breathtaking views of the Kings Canyon, Hume Lake, and the high Sierra peaks (0.5-mile round trip paved path, allow 45 minutes to an hour). If time and energy allow, consider a hike on the North Grove Loop (1.5 miles, 1 hour) for more sequoia viewing in a less crowded setting. Driving all the way into Cedar Grove in Kings Canyon is a very long day trip from Three Rivers and would mean less time for hiking; this itinerary focuses on the Grant Grove area.
• Evening (7:00 PM onwards) Drive back to Three Rivers. Enjoy a relaxed dinner at The River View Restaurant & Bar, offering classic American dishes with river views (expect $45-65 for two).

Day 4: Kaweah River Recreation & Three Rivers Treasures

• Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Enjoy a refreshing morning on the Kaweah River. Depending on the season and water levels, you could rent kayaks or rafts from a local outfitter like Kaweah River Outfitters (rentals typically range $50-100 for a few hours for two people). If water levels aren’t suitable for paddling, find a quiet spot to swim, read, or simply relax by the river near your lodging. Pack a light lunch to enjoy by the river (approx. $10-15 for groceries).
• Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Spend the afternoon exploring more of Three Rivers’ unique offerings. Visit local art galleries and studios, many of which showcase local artists inspired by the natural beauty of the area (e.g., Anne Lang’s Emporium, usually free to browse). Or, enjoy a short, easy hike like the Sycamore Creek Trail (near the start of Mineral King Road, check conditions, 1-2 miles round trip) for some riparian scenery and birdwatching.
• Evening (6:30 PM onwards) Treat yourselves to a slightly nicer dinner on your last full evening. The Gateway Restaurant & Lodge offers a more upscale dining experience with views of the river and a diverse menu (expect $60-80 for two). Enjoy a leisurely evening reminiscing about your adventures.

Day 5: Foothills Farewell & Departure

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Before departing, enjoy a final taste of Sequoia National Park’s lower elevations. Drive just inside the park to the Foothills area. Visit Hospital Rock, an historic Native American pictograph site with mortar holes (short, easy walk from parking, allow 30-45 minutes). You can also enjoy a final riverside moment at Buckeye Flat Campground’s day-use area (check if open for day use) or the Kaweah River Picnic Area, providing tranquil spots to reflect by the water.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM onwards) Check out from your lodging in Three Rivers. Enjoy one last local lunch at a casual spot like The Farmers Market & Deli in Three Rivers for sandwiches and salads (approx. $20-30 for two) before beginning your journey home, carrying memories of the giant sequoias and the serene Kaweah River.