About Sequoia & Kings Canyon Weather
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks have a large range of elevations, and a corresponding range of climates. The two main areas visited are the foothills and the middle elevations, where the sequoias are located. The foothills are mild in winter, warm in spring and fall, and very hot in summer. Most precipitation occurs from January to May. The statistics below are most accurate for the foothills region. Further up, at 5,000 to 7,000 feet, the sequoia zone, the temperatures are 15-20°F cooler. Deep snows occur in the winter months, and can remain until late May or June.
Visitation Seasons
The spring starts off cold and snowy at the higher elevations. Snows may be found on the roads at any time, sometimes closing them for short periods. The real visitation season in the parks starts around Memorial Day, when most services go into full swing.
The summer is the season of highest visitation. The higher elevations are usually pleasant, but the lower elevations in the foothills and canyons can get quite hot. The campgrounds in the Giant Forest area and all lodging are usually full. However, neither of the parks ever feels overly crowded.
The fall is a great time to visit. Crowds disappear after Labor Day and temperatures remain comfortable through October. Things turn cold and possibly snowy at the higher elevations in November.
The winter is quiet and often beautiful time to visit. Temperatures are low and snow is common in the sequoia groves. Roads are plowed and kept open except for short periods during or after major snowfalls.
