Driving advice

Question

Looking for driving advice on our Sequoia / KC day trip from Visalia on a weekday in early June.

Plans are to drive up to Giant Forest Museum early am and then use the park shuttles for various stops / trails thereabouts. Time and energy permitting, plan to continue driving to the Grant Tree.

Leaving the Grant Tree, Google Maps suggests taking Hwy 180 west to Hwy 63, then south to Visalia. I also noticed Hwy 245 running south to Visalia as an alternative.

Just curious if anyone has driven both and can comment?

Thanks!

Answer

For a day trip from Visalia to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park, your plan to start early and visit the Giant Forest Museum using park shuttles is a good one, as parking can be limited later in the morning, and the shuttles make it easier to access popular trailheads and points of interest like the General Sherman Tree.

Regarding the drive after visiting the Grant Tree, there are two main options to return to Visalia: Hwy 180 west to Hwy 63 south, or Hwy 245 south. Here’s a comparison:

Hwy 180 west to Hwy 63 south: This is the more straightforward and commonly used route. It’s paved, well-maintained, and generally less winding than Hwy 245. It also passes through a few small towns where you can stop for snacks or gas if needed. Traffic is usually light on weekdays, though you may encounter some congestion near the park exit in the morning.
Hwy 245 south: This is a more scenic, rural route that passes through rolling hills and small farming communities. The road is narrower and has more curves, so it may be slower and less comfortable if you are in a larger vehicle or prefer a direct route. However, it’s quieter and offers a more relaxed drive with scenic views.

Other considerations for your day trip:

Start as early as possible to maximize your time in the Giant Forest and avoid crowds at popular trees and trailheads.
Bring water, snacks, and layers, as mornings can be cool and afternoons warm in early June.
Check the park shuttle schedule ahead of time to plan your stops efficiently and avoid long waits.
Allow extra time for photography and short walks at scenic viewpoints; the Giant Forest area has multiple trails under 1-2 miles that are easy to explore without consuming too much time.

In summary, if your priority is a smooth and quick return, Hwy 180 west to Hwy 63 south is recommended. If you want a more scenic, leisurely drive and don’t mind a narrower, curvier road, Hwy 245 south is a pleasant alternative.

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