Visit Sequoia NP in addition to Yosemite?

Question

I just started planning a trip for my family of 5 (kids 10, 6, and 4) to SF, Carmel, Yosemite in July. The only reservations we have so far are 4 nights at Tenaya Lodge near Yosemite. I'm really excited for the kids to see sequoias and I know we'll see some there. We are trying to decide if we should also go to Sequoia NP since the trees will be a highlight for us and we're not sure when/if we'll be back to the area for a while. We have the time to visit both, but want it to be "worth it" if we're going to do that extra driving with kids. Are the trees in Sequoia much more impressive than in Mariposa Grove?

Answer

Visiting Sequoia National Park in addition to Yosemite can definitely be worth it if seeing giant sequoias is a major highlight for your family. Both parks offer awe-inspiring trees, but there are some differences that may help you decide if the extra drive is worthwhile.

Mariposa Grove in Yosemite:

Home to about 500 mature giant sequoias, including the famous Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree.
The grove is compact and easy to navigate with kids. There are well-maintained trails suitable for families, and a shuttle operates from the parking area to the grove during busy months.
The scale of the trees is impressive, and you’ll get a good sense of their size and grandeur without needing a full-day hike.

Sequoia National Park:

Home to the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on Earth by volume, which is definitely a “wow” moment.
The park features groves that are more spread out, with some hikes offering a deeper, more immersive forest experience.
In addition to giant sequoias, Sequoia NP has other attractions like Moro Rock, Crystal Cave, and more open, mountainous scenery.

Considerations for your family:

Driving from Yosemite to Sequoia NP adds roughly 4–5 hours each way, depending on your exact route and traffic, so this can be a long day with kids unless you plan to stay overnight near Sequoia.
July is peak season, so starting early and allowing extra time for parking and shuttle services is important.
If your main goal is simply to see a few giant trees, Mariposa Grove will suffice, especially with younger kids. If you want the “largest tree in the world” experience and don’t mind the extra driving, Sequoia NP adds a memorable highlight.

In summary, for a family with kids ages 4–10, Yosemite’s Mariposa Grove offers a very satisfying sequoia experience without extra driving. Sequoia National Park is more impressive in scale and variety, but only consider it if you’re willing to dedicate at least one extra day to the drive and park visit.

Visit Sequoia NP in addition to Yosemite?

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