Sequoia National Park offers free entry on specific days throughout the year, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore its majestic landscapes without paying entrance fees. These free days are part of a nationwide initiative by the National Park Service to increase accessibility to America’s natural treasures. This guide covers everything you need to know about Sequoia National Park’s free entry days, including dates, policies, and tips for making the most of your visit.
When Can I Visit Sequoia National Park for Free?
The National Park Service has designated five free entry days for Sequoia National Park in 2023:
- January 16: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
- April 22: First day of National Park Week
- August 4: Great American Outdoors Day
- September 23: National Public Lands Day
- November 11: Veterans Day
On these days, all visitors can enter the park without paying the usual entrance fee. However, it’s important to note that other fees, such as those for camping, boat launches, and special tours, still apply.
What Are the Eligibility Criteria for Free Entry?
While the designated free days are open to all visitors, there are also specific groups who can enjoy free or discounted entry to Sequoia National Park throughout the year:
- Active duty military personnel and their dependents
- Veterans
- Gold Star Families
- Fourth-grade students (through the Every Kid Outdoors program)
- Disabled citizens
- Senior citizens (age 62 and older)
These groups may be eligible for free or discounted passes that provide access not just to Sequoia National Park, but to all national parks and federal recreational lands.
How Do I Apply for a Free or Discounted Pass?
The application process varies depending on the type of pass:
- Military Passes: Available at any federal recreation site upon presentation of a Common Access Card (CAC) or Military ID (Form 1173).
- Every Kid Outdoors Pass: Fourth-grade students can obtain a pass by completing an educational activity on the program’s website and downloading a paper voucher.
- Access Pass: Available for free to U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities. Can be obtained in person at a federal recreation site or through a mail-in application.
- Senior Pass: Available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents aged 62 or older. Can be purchased online, by mail, or in person at a federal recreation site.
What Documentation Do I Need for Free Entry?
The required documentation depends on the type of pass:
- Military Pass: Valid military ID
- Every Kid Outdoors Pass: Paper voucher downloaded from the program website
- Access Pass: Proof of permanent disability and U.S. citizenship or permanent residency
- Senior Pass: Proof of age and U.S. citizenship or permanent residency
For free entry days, no special documentation is required.
Are There Discounts Available for the Sequoia National Park Annual Pass?
While there isn’t a specific discount for the Sequoia National Park annual pass, the America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass offers excellent value:
- Cost: $80
- Validity: One year from the date of purchase
- Coverage: Unlimited access to over 2,000 federal recreation areas, including all national parks
- Includes: Entry for the passholder and accompanying passengers in a single vehicle
This pass can be a cost-effective option for frequent visitors or those planning to visit multiple national parks within a year.
Who Is Exempt from Paying Entrance Fees at Sequoia National Park?
Several groups are exempt from paying entrance fees at Sequoia National Park:
- Children under 16 years old
- Holders of the America the Beautiful pass
- Military pass holders
- Every Kid Outdoors pass holders (fourth-grade students)
- Access Pass holders (permanently disabled citizens)
- Senior Pass holders (citizens aged 62 and older)
These exemptions apply year-round, not just on free entry days.
What Conditions Apply to Free Entry Days?
While entrance fees are waived on free entry days, visitors should be aware of the following conditions:
- Other fees (camping, boat launches, special tours) still apply
- Reservations may be required for parking and shuttle services
- Some amenities and services within the park may have separate fees
It’s advisable to check the park’s official website or contact the visitor center for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
How Does Free Entry Impact Parking and Visitor Services?
Free entry days can be particularly busy at Sequoia National Park. Here’s what you need to know:
- Parking may be limited and could require advance reservations
- Shuttle services might have separate fees and may require reservations
- Visitor centers and popular attractions may be more crowded than usual
- Some services or amenities might have longer wait times
To make the most of your visit on a free entry day, consider:
- Arriving early to secure parking
- Using shuttle services when available
- Exploring less-visited areas of the park
- Being prepared for potential crowds at popular attractions
By planning ahead and being flexible, you can enjoy all that Sequoia National Park has to offer, even on busy free entry days.
Remember, while free entry days provide a great opportunity to visit Sequoia National Park, they also tend to be the busiest days. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during off-peak times or investing in an annual pass for more flexibility in planning your trips.