Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are among California’s most spectacular landscapes, offering giant trees, rugged canyons, and star-studded skies. What makes these parks stand out for tours is their impressive sequoia groves, including the famous General Sherman Tree, and the diverse terrain that invites both leisurely sightseeing and active adventures. The real magic happens when you experience these parks through guided tours that go beyond the typical self-drive. For instance, a small-group tour can help you avoid the crowds and learn local secrets from a knowledgeable guide. Meanwhile, private experiences and tailored hikes give you the flexibility to focus on what interests you most—be it giant trees, hiking, or stargazing. These tours are perfect for those craving authentic, in-depth encounters with nature, often accompanied by expert guides who share stories and insights you’d miss on your own.
Whether you’re after a quick overview, a scenic hike, or a cozy night under the stars, Sequoia and Kings Canyon offer a variety of tours suited for all interests and fitness levels. Below, you’ll find a carefully curated list of the six best tours, each with its own unique appeal—ranging from easy sightseeing to adventurous snowshoeing and intimate private outings.
1. Sequoia National Park Small Group Tour from Three Rivers
At number one, this small-group tour is ideal if you want to see the highlights with minimal hassle. It’s designed for first-time visitors looking for a relaxed day with everything included. The tour checks off big-ticket sights like the General Sherman Tree and the Moro Rock Trail, plus some lesser-known spots like Auto Log. The advantage? A maximum of 10 people keeps it intimate, with a friendly guide providing live commentary full of stories and insights. The tour includes skip-the-line entry, a complimentary picnic lunch, and drinks, so you can focus on enjoying the scenery without fussing over logistics. The guide drives you comfortably between spots, saving your energy and feet. Reviewers rave about the personal touch and tailored stops, with one calling it a “10/10 experience” and praising guide Paul’s knowledge and friendliness.
This tour is perfect if you’re short on time but want a comprehensive taste of the park, especially if it’s your first visit. The mix of iconic trees, a scenic drive on the Generals Highway, and the chance to climb Moro Rock make for an action-packed, well-rounded day.
Bottom Line: Best for first-timers seeking a guided, all-in-one experience with a small group and great value.
2. Private Guided Hiking Tour – Sequoia National Park
Next up, the Private Guided Hiking Tour offers a more personalized and flexible way to explore. For around $450 per group (up to 14 people), your private guide takes you through both Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks—a rare combo. This tour includes stops at General Sherman, Moro Rock, and the Crescent Meadow Loop, with the guide tailoring the experience based on your interests and fitness level. Reviewers highlight guides like Krista, who provide customized hikes, shoe cleats during snow, and hot beverages at mid-hike. It’s especially suited for those who want to learn in-depth about the trees, wildlife, and landscape while having the freedom to choose your route.
What sets this trip apart is the level of personal attention and the ability to combine driving and hiking in one day. It’s ideal for families, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone who prefers an intimate, less structured adventure. The inclusion of safety gear and a knowledgeable guide makes it a worry-free way to see the parks’ highlights.
Bottom Line: Perfect for groups who want a private, flexible, and immersive day with a guide who adapts to your interests.
3. Sequoia National Park Adventure from Tulare
At number three, this Sequoia National Park Adventure offers a personalized tour geared toward those who want to customize their visit. The tour includes visiting the Giant Forest, where you can walk among the world’s largest trees, and enjoy stops at vista points and the visitor center. You can also hike up to the top of Moro Rock or wander around a meadow, depending on your interests. The guide is experienced and flexible, providing options to suit your energy level and curiosity.
What makes this tour special is its customization—you’re not locked into a fixed schedule or route. It’s also a private experience, ensuring that your group’s preferences shape the day. The tour lasts from 4 to 8 hours, making it adaptable for different schedules. Reviewers mention the guide’s knowledge and ability to tailor the day, with one noting that it was a highlight of their trip because it felt like a personal exploration rather than a crowded bus tour.
This tour is great for those who want a semi-structured yet adaptable day exploring Sequoia’s giant trees and scenic vistas with a private guide.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want an intimate, adjustable sightseeing experience that highlights their personal interests.
4. Sequoia National Park Private Tour
Number four brings us to the Sequoia National Park Private Tour, run by former National Park Rangers. This luxury experience is suited for smaller groups (minimum three passengers) and offers a 5-star level of service. The guide, Kacey, is praised for sharing off-the-beaten-path viewing spots and providing detailed descriptions of the trees and landscape, making this a rich educational experience. The tour lasts about 4 hours, with a focus on relaxing in comfort and savoring the scenery without the crowds.
What makes this tour stand out is its personalized approach and the fact that it’s led by someone with ranger credentials, adding depth and authenticity. Reviewers describe it as exceeding expectations, with one calling it “the best Sequoia experience” they had. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a private, high-end experience that combines scenery with behind-the-scenes stories.
Keep in mind, this tour is best suited for those who prioritize comfort and personalized attention over a packed schedule. It’s a great choice when you want to indulge in a memorable, boutique-style outing.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want a personalized, comfortable, and ranger-led exploration of Sequoia.
5. Private Snowshoe Adventure – Sequoia National Park
Number five is the Private Snowshoe Adventure, perfect if you visit in winter. This guided snowshoe trek to Bear Hill covers about 2.5 miles through snow-covered giants, with everything provided—snowshoes, warm drinks, and expert guidance. Krista, the guide, is frequently praised for her enthusiasm and ability to make the trip accessible for all ages and skill levels.
What makes this experience unique is the tranquil winter landscape and the opportunity to see the park in a rare, silent stillness. Reviewers emphasize how Krista’s knowledge about the trees and wildlife enhances the walk, making it educational as well as scenic. The tour’s limited size ensures a personalized experience, and the snowshoeing adds a fun, active element to your visit.
Ideal for families or active travelers who want to see Sequoia in a peaceful snow-covered setting, this tour combines nature, exercise, and serenity.
Bottom Line: Great for winter visitors seeking a quiet, guided snowshoe trek with plenty of personal attention.
6. Private Stargazing – Sequoia National Park
Finally, as night falls, the Private Stargazing tour offers a magical way to end your day. Surrounded by dark skies, you’ll use binoculars, star maps, and chairs provided by your guide, Krista, to explore the cosmos. With no light pollution, Sequoia’s night sky reveals constellations, planets, and even occasional meteor showers.
This tour is ideal for those interested in astronomy or simply wanting an atmospheric, peaceful way to experience the park after sunset. Reviewers mention Krista’s engaging storytelling and her ability to make the stars come alive, even for complete novices. The tour lasts about 1.5 hours and is limited to small groups for a personalized experience.
Perfect for families, stargazers, or anyone curious about the universe, this experience transforms the park into a night-time theater.
Bottom Line: Offers a unique, relaxing evening under the stars, perfect for astronomy buffs or those seeking a quiet, contemplative finale to their day.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting a tour in Sequoia and Kings Canyon, consider your budget, available time, and interests. If you’re short on time but want a rundown, the small-group tour is a smart choice. For a more personal and flexible experience, the private guided hikes or luxury private tours suit travelers who prioritize comfort and customization.
Active visitors will appreciate the snowshoe adventure, especially in winter, while those seeking a peaceful end to a busy day might love the stargazing experience. For all options, booking early is wise—especially during peak months like summer or holiday weekends—since these tours tend to fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks offer a wide range of tours that cater to different interests, from iconic tree walks to starry nights. The small-group tour is great for first-timers craving a guided overview, while the private experiences and hiking tours offer deeper, more tailored adventures. If winter or evening viewing appeals, the snowshoe and stargazing tours transform visiting into a truly memorable escape.
No matter your choice, booking early and choosing a tour aligned with your fitness and curiosity levels will ensure a rewarding visit. These parks are a treasure trove of natural beauty and adventure—your perfect tour awaits.