A Las Vegas to Sequoia National Park tour offers an exciting journey from the glittering lights of Sin City to the awe-inspiring natural wonders of one of America’s most beloved national parks. This road trip spans approximately 380 miles, taking you through diverse landscapes from the Mojave Desert to the Sierra Nevada mountains. The journey typically takes about 6-8 hours of driving time, not including stops, and can be comfortably spread over two days with overnight stays at interesting points along the route.
What is the Best Route for a Las Vegas to Sequoia National Park Tour?
The most direct and scenic route for a Las Vegas to Sequoia National Park tour follows these major highways:
- I-15 South from Las Vegas
- CA-58 West through Mojave
- CA-99 North to Bakersfield
- CA-65 North to Exeter
- CA-198 East into Sequoia National Park
This route offers a blend of desert vistas, mountain scenery, and opportunities to explore unique attractions along the way.
What are the Must-See Stops on a Las Vegas to Sequoia National Park Tour?
A well-planned Las Vegas to Sequoia National Park tour should include these fascinating stops:
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Fashion Outlets of Las Vegas: Located about an hour from Las Vegas, this is a great place for some last-minute shopping before hitting the road.
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World’s Tallest Thermometer: In Baker, California, this 134-foot tall thermometer is a quirky roadside attraction worth a quick photo stop.
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Calico Ghost Town: An abandoned silver mining town turned tourist attraction, offering a glimpse into the Old West.
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Mojave Air and Space Port: A unique facility where you might spot spacecraft or experimental aircraft.
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Bakersfield: A good midway point for refueling and grabbing a meal.
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Exeter: Known for its charming murals, this town offers a pleasant stop before entering the national park.
How Long Does the Las Vegas to Sequoia National Park Tour Take?
The Las Vegas to Sequoia National Park tour can be comfortably completed in two days:
Day 1:
– Morning: Explore Las Vegas Strip
– Afternoon: Drive to Calico Ghost Town (about 3.5 hours)
– Evening: Overnight stay at Calico Ghost Town Campground
Day 2:
– Morning: Drive to Mojave (1.5 hours)
– Afternoon: Continue to Bakersfield and then to Sequoia National Park (about 3 hours)
– Evening: Arrive at Sequoia National Park
This itinerary allows for leisurely stops and sightseeing along the way.
What are the Best Accommodations for a Las Vegas to Sequoia National Park Tour?
Here are some recommended accommodations for your Las Vegas to Sequoia National Park tour:
- Las Vegas:
- Luxor Hotel and Casino
- Bellagio
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Circus Circus (budget-friendly)
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Calico Ghost Town:
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Calico Ghost Town Campground (for a unique experience)
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Bakersfield:
- DoubleTree by Hilton Bakersfield
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Best Western Plus Hill House
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Sequoia National Park:
- Wuksachi Lodge (inside the park)
- Comfort Inn & Suites Sequoia Kings Canyon (near the park entrance)
What Should You Pack for a Las Vegas to Sequoia National Park Tour?
Essential items for your Las Vegas to Sequoia National Park tour include:
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Layered clothing (temperatures can vary significantly)
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Reusable water bottle
- Snacks for the road
- Camera
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- First aid kit
- Map or GPS device
- National Parks Pass (if you have one)
What are the Best Activities in Sequoia National Park?
Once you reach Sequoia National Park, don’t miss these activities:
- Visit the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on Earth by volume
- Drive through Tunnel Log, a fallen sequoia with a car-sized tunnel cut through it
- Climb Moro Rock for panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada
- Explore Crystal Cave (advance tickets required)
- Hike the Congress Trail to see more giant sequoias
- Visit the Giant Forest Museum to learn about the park’s ecology
Are There Guided Tours Available in Sequoia National Park?
While there are no direct guided tours from Las Vegas to Sequoia National Park, several tour options are available within the park:
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Sequoia National Park Small Group Tour: A 6-hour guided tour of park highlights, including the General Sherman Tree. Cost: $289.
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Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: An 8-hour to 1-day audio guide for driving through Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Cost: $22.
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Private Guided Hiking Tour: Customizable tours with a private guide, tailored to your group’s preferences and fitness levels.
What are the Best Times to Visit Sequoia National Park?
The best times for a Las Vegas to Sequoia National Park tour are:
- Late Spring (May-June): Mild weather, blooming wildflowers, and flowing waterfalls.
- Summer (July-August): Warm temperatures ideal for hiking, but expect crowds.
- Fall (September-October): Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful fall colors.
- Winter (November-April): Snowy landscapes, but some roads may be closed.
What are the Accessibility Options in Sequoia National Park?
Sequoia National Park offers several accessibility options:
- Wheelchair-accessible trails at the General Sherman Tree and Big Trees Trail
- Accessible campsites at Lodgepole and Dorst Creek Campgrounds
- Accessible lodging at Wuksachi Lodge
- Audio-described tours at the Giant Forest Museum
- Assistive listening devices available at visitor centers
How Can You Minimize Your Environmental Impact During the Tour?
To make your Las Vegas to Sequoia National Park tour more eco-friendly:
- Use reusable water bottles and shopping bags
- Dispose of waste properly and recycle when possible
- Stay on designated trails to protect vegetation
- Observe wildlife from a distance
- Use public transportation or shuttle services within the park when available
- Choose eco-friendly accommodations
By following these tips, you can help preserve the natural beauty of Sequoia National Park for future generations.