Sequoia and Kings Canyon

5/10-12

Wednesday we headed to Sequoia NP, planning to see as much as we can during our 3 night stay at Sequoia RV Ranch in Three Rivers, CA. As sad as it was to leave the ocean, it always feels like home in the mountains. After the ridiculous traffic of LA, we started seeing the dramatic changes in the landscape.

As we drove, winding through the mountains we started getting excited for new adventures. It ends up that the RV campground is on the shores of the North Fork River. Shady sites and the sounds of fast flowing water in the background.

Thursday 5/11, we headed to Sequoia NP. We saw signs regarding park road closures on our way into the campground yesterday. Apparently the harsh winter snows and subsequently flooding from snow melt has caused mudslides and damaged the majority of the roads through the park. Bummer… we will see as much as we can!

We were able to get 6 miles into the park but not far enough to gaze at the giant Redwoods. 😏

We were able to walk along the paths by the river and see the views from Hospital Rock. No redwoods but dramatic and stunning scenery.

It was recommended that we stop in the town of Three Rivers. Apparently the sub shop, Sierra Subs, was in the top sandwich shops of California… right around the corner from the RV Ranch! We had to stop in!
Sierra Subs did not disappoint and the deck of the shop backed up on the North Fork River. Lovely!

As we strolled along the 8-10 shops (and 2 gas stations) that made up the town, Paul spied 3Rivers Brewery. He found an IPA that was tasty and they also had a deck overlooking the river.

So I think we have the whole relaxing thing down pretty well after 5-1/2 weeks on the road!
Once at the RV, we took Harley and explored the shores of the river. Superb afternoon!

Friday 5/12 Off to Kings Canyon NP. We hear there’s snow in them there hills!
Since the road that connects the two parks was closed we set out on our 1-1/2 hour journey to Kings Canyon. There was a small part of the park with General Grant Redwood that was open. The drive took us through citrus groves, olive groves and walnut groves. At one point the air was filled with a sweet aroma.
Once at Kings Canyon, we could see the remains of a record breaking winter with snow still above the roof of the visitors center.

No matter how many times you see these magnificent trees, it’s still impressive!

(We discovered you can do panoramic photos vertically)

We had a picnic lunch and gazed at these marvels of nature! Another beautiful day in the great outdoors!

We definitely need to come back to these parks… hopefully it will be on another trip out west, there is so much to see that we couldn’t enjoy on this visit.