NATIONAL SEQUOIA & KINGS CANYON PARKS & SEQUOIA NATIONAL FORES T/ GIANT SEQUOIA NATIONAL MONUMENT FALL 2009 GUIDE

Crystal Cave Tours / Free Activities • page 3 page 8 • Facilities & Ranger Programs in Sequoia Safety Tips / Finding Gasoline • page 5 page 9 • Facilities & Programs in Kings Canyon & USFS Highlights & Shuttle in Sequoia Park • page 6 page 10 • Camping & Lodging / Bears & Your Food Highlights in Kings Canyon & USFS • page 7 page 12 • Park Road Map / Road Delays! Fall in the foothills: An end to waiting High in the Sierra, fall prompts living things spring, oak seedlings throughout the foothills will to start the long wait beneath winter snow. In owe their start to forgetful jays. the foothills, autumn signals an end to waiting. Fall’s acorn crop sustains other foothill species Life here has waited all summer. Drought, as well: bears, deer, band-tailed pigeons, ground heat, and the resulting food shortages provoked squirrels, dusky-footed wood rats, and raccoons. many species to go dormant. Many plants grew The first rains jump-start the grasses. Native little or not at all. Some animals slept through bunchgrasses, the few remaining in the foothills, the season – the summer version of hibernating. sprout from roots that survive summer droughts. With fall, however, reanimation begins. By Annual grasses sprout from plentiful seeds. late October, Pacific storms usually start to Evergreen plants, such as live oaks and chapar - swing through the Sierra. They bestow the man - ral shrubs, also respond to rain quickly. Breaking tle of high-country snow that puts so much of dormancy, they start to grow again. life on hold. On the lower elevations, however, These food sources, plus cooler temperatures, the storms confer growth-starting rain. welcome back species that migrated away from Along with cooler temperatures, rain inspires the foothills at summer’s start. The species diver - activity. Male tarantulas emerge from burrows sity that the foothills boast is especially evident in to rove the landscape for mates. Under rocks, fall. Cedar waxwings, white-crowned sparrows, dormant California newts stir. As fall passes, and others return from northern breeding these charming orange salamanders walk about grounds where cold and food shortages now rule. searching for water in which to mate and lay Red-breasted nuthatches and golden-crowned eggs. kinglets fly down from conifer forests. Mountain Under buckeye trees, which shed their leaves quail walk down; these nine-inch-long birds months ago during summer’s dry heat, their migrate up to twenty miles on foot. large brown seeds lie waiting. Once the rains Beautiful, raucous, hole-drilling, communal The exception to this burgeoning vitality? The begin, a strong root pushes through each hard food-caching: The foothills acorn woodpecker reptiles. Although it rarely snows, the foothills do husk. Buckeyes sprout by the millions. is at its best in the fall. Photo ©Brent Russell Paull know frost, which drives snakes and lizards to As acorns ripen on foothill oaks, some animals begin caching their burrows. them. Acorn woodpeckers work ceaselessly to store these nuts. Autumn also gives the foothills back to people for easier enjoy - Oak trees, fence posts, telephone poles, houses… any wooden sur - ment. The midday sun has lost its harsh summer glare. Cool nights face may be drilled to hold acorns. are not yet frosty. Occasional rains feel great in a land of drought. Scrub jays use strong beaks to dig holes and push acorns into the Open trails, plentiful wildlife, and less-crowded campgrounds beck - ground. Acorns not dug up again for food respond to the rains; by on. Days are quiet, but life here is not in retreat — its wait is over. Get to know Sequoia & Kings Canyon

WELCOME! The National Park Service cares Borrow the park map & guide in for special places saved by the Braille at visitor centers. BIENVENIDOS American people so that all may Hay un folleto en Español disponible en los centros de visita. experience our heritage. BIENVENUE Une guide officielle est dis pon ible RECOVERY & REINVESTMENT IN THE PARKS dans les centres d’information. This summer you may start to see the American Recovery and WILKOMMEN Reinvestment Act (ARRA) in action here. ARRA provides funds Eine Landkarte ist auch in important, shovel-ready maintenance projects needed by the deutscher sprache im parks. Five ARRA projects here represent an investment of more Besucher- zentrum erhaltlich. than $11 million in these parks: • The largest project entails replacing drinking-water tanks and BENVENUTI improving fire suppression systems at headquarters. We are La traduzione in lingua Italiana replacing a system from the 1930s and 1940s, and adding a gen - della mappa e’ disponibile in tutti erator so that water systems can function during power outages. i centri di informazioni. • Crystal Cave will get quieter, more energy-efficient lighting via a photovoltaic system rather than the old generator. This benefits cave tours as well as the cave itself. PARK, FOREST, • Crews will rebuild storm-caused damage on the Kennedy Pass Trail in western Kings Canyon Park, where a severe rainstorm OR MONUMENT? PHONE NUMBERS last summer carved a large gully on trail switchbacks. They will What is the difference between Sequoia and Kings EMERGENCY — DIAL 911 also rebuild trail damage from the Tehipite Fire and will clear fallen trees. Canyon National Parks , No coins needed. Sequoia National Forest , and 24-Hour Park Information • A fifth project involves replacing mandatory compliance-moni - Giant Sequoia National 1-559-565-3341 (NPS) toring components of the parks’ five wastewater treatment Monument ? www.nps.gov/seki plants and 17 potable water systems. Each is on federal land. Each Na tional Forest Information exists to benefit society. Yet each 1-559-338-2251 (USFS) has a different history and pur - www.fs.fed.us/r5/sequoia FEES HELP YOUR PARKS! pose. Together they provide a Yosemite Information (NPS) Most of your entrance and camping fees stay here. The parks wide spectrum of uses. 1-209-372-0200 invest them in improving visitor facilities and protecting park National parks strive to keep www.nps.gov/yose landscapes unimpaired for future resources. Fees have paid for repairing and upgrading roads, generations. They protect California Road Conditions campgrounds, trails, picnic areas, and restrooms. They have natural and historic fea - 1-800-427-7623 (Caltrans) improved visitor centers, updated exhibits, and modernized tures while offering naturalist slide programs. Partners in the Parks light-on-the-land recre - ation. Park rangers The following groups work work for the National together to provide this guide, first ENTRANCE FEE OPTIONS Park Service, part of the published in 1974 as the Sequoia Bark. • 7-day pass for Sequoia & Kings Canyon, and for Hume Lake It is published by the Sequoia Natural Department of the His tory As so ciation (SNHA) and District of Sequoia Na tional Forest/Giant Sequoia National Interior. printed by Willems Commercial Monument (GSNM) : $20 per vehicle (private, non-commer - National forests, managed Printing, Inc. cial) or $10 per person on foot, bicycle, motorcycle, or bus. for “multiple use, provide servic - National Park Service (NPS) es and commodities that may Malinee Crapsey, Editor •12- Month Pass for Sequoia & Kings Canyon, and for Hume include lumber, cattle grazing, 1-559-565-3341 Lake District of Sequoia Na tional Forest/GSNM : $30 admits minerals, as well as www.nps.gov/seki all passengers in a private vehicle for one year from month of recreation with and Sequoia Natural History purchase. Not valid at Crystal Cave. without vehicles. Association (SNHA) Forest rangers work 1- 559-565-3759 •12-Month: America the Beautiful Interagency Annual Pass : for the U.S. Forest www.sequoia hist ory. org Service, an agency in Cost $80. Valid for entrance fees at Federal recreation sites the Department of Sequoia Parks Foundation including National Parks, National Forests, FWS, BLM, & 1-559-739-1668 Agriculture. www.sequoia fund. org Bureau of Reclamation. Admits all passengers in a single private Both agencies manage wilder - non-commercial vehicle where per-vehicle fees are charged, or U.S. Forest Service (FS) ness and other areas where they 1- 559-784-1500 the passholder plus up to 3 persons (age 16 & older) for per- strive for maximum protection of www.fs.fed.us/r5/sequoia person fee areas, for 12 months. Not valid at Crystal Cave. natural resources. For example, Delaware North Companies part of Sequoia National Forest Parks & Resorts (DNCPR) • Seniors: America the Beautiful Interagency Pass : $10 one- has been designated Giant 1-888-252-5757 time fee buys a lifetime pass for entrance fees for U.S. citizens & Sequoia National Monument to www.visitsequoia.com permanent residents 62 or over. (Previously issued Golden Age emphasize protection of sequoias. passes remain valid.) Not valid at Crystal Cave. Parks, forests, and monuments Kings Canyon Park Services (KCPS) have some different rules in order 1- 866-KCANYON (522-6966) to meet their goals. Read “Where www.sequoia-kingscanyon.com • Accessibility: America the Beautiful Interagency Access can I...” on the next page to learn U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Pass : Free to blind or permanently disabled U.S. citizens and what activities are permitted 1- 559-565-3171 permanent residents. Take appropriate documentation to any where. Despite confusion over www.werc.usgs.gov park visitor center. (Previously issued Golden Access passes names, we get a wide range of Page 1 illustrations ©SNHA by Rick Wheeler remain valid.) Not valid at Crystal Cave. benefits from these diverse areas.

2 FALL 2009 SEQUOIA & KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS Crystal Cave rocks! No tickets are sold at the cave, only at Lodgepole and Foot hills visitor centers. Buy Free Activities 1 them at least 1 ⁄2 hours before the tour. Crystal Cave Road is 15 miles (24 km) from the WALKS & TALKS - A few free ranger-led activities may Sequoia Park entrance at Hwy be offered at Giant Forest, Grant Grove, and the 198, and 3 miles (5 km) south Foothills. See pages 8-9, then check bulletin boards and of the General Sherman Tree visitor centers for detailed schedules. Once winter (see page 12 map). Maximum snows set in, free guided snowshoe walks will begin in vehicle length is 22' (6.7 m) Lodgepole and Grant Grove! on the road to the cave. Use parking-lot restrooms; VISITOR CENTERS & PARK STORES - Each offers the cave has none. Wear different exhibits to enjoy. Park stores in each center sturdy shoes and bring a jacket; sell a wide variety of books, maps, postcards, posters, 1 and other items. All your purchases in visitor centers the ⁄2-mile trail (.8 km) to the cave is steep and it’s 50 °F help to support the parks! See pages 8-9 for details. (10 °C) inside. JUNIOR RANGER PROGRAM - FREE FOR ALL AGES No strollers, tri pods, or Earn a badge while helping to protect resources. If you baby backpacks. Not wheel - are 5 to 8 years old, work for the Jay Award. Those 9 chair accessible. Ask about to 12 years old earn a Raven Award. Ages 13 to 103 group reservations and Wild earn an Arrowhead Award. Cave Tours! Tour led by the Pick up your free Jr. Ran ger SNHA: 1-559-565-3759. booklet in any park visitor center and have fun! Don’t miss Surround yourself with graceful cave this opportunity! TEACHERS - BRING YOUR formations on a great tour! NPS Photo CLASS TO THE PARKS ! Fun curriculum-based 45-minute Daily Cave Tours programs for 2 nd , 3 rd , 4 th , and 6 th grades in spring Through 10/25 (weather permitting): On the hour Saturdays and fall: geology, sequoias, 11am-3pm; Sundays 11am -2pm; weekdays 11am, 1pm, 2pm. Native Americans, and Fees : Age 6-12 $6; age 13-61 $11; age 62 & up $10; under 6 & other cultural history. For Golden Access Pass holders free. National Park, Interagency, & details or to reserve a Golden Age passes do not apply at the cave. Discount for SNHA date: 1-559- 565-4303. members! WHERE CAN I ... Permitted during the season; • RIDE A BICYCLE - In the You are visiting two • COLLECT THINGS - Not in Cal ifornia fishing licenses re - Parks : On roads only, not different areas - a National Parks : Leave everything to play quired for ages 16 & up. Ask on any trail (except the Park (NPS) and a National its natural role in the ecosystem. for cop ies of park reg u la tions. designated bike trail in Forest and Monument In National Forest : Keeping a (USFS). Some activities • GO PICNICKING - See picnic Cedar Grove). few cones or rocks for personal In National Forest : Ask a that are illegal in the Park use is permitted. In both symbols on page 12. Never leave may be legal in the Forest food unattended, due to bears! ranger which trails permit areas : Archeo logical sites and bicycles. In both areas : (see page 2 for details). artifacts are protected by law. Most sites have tables, restrooms Know where you are! & fire grills, except: No fire grills Be careful & courteous • HUNT - Not in the Parks . Fire- near ped es trians & horses. •WALK A PET - In the Parks: at Sandy Cove, Foothills, & arms must be unloaded, inoper - Grizzly Falls. No fires permitted People younger than 18 Not on any trails but it’s o.k. able and stored in way that pre - must wear helmets. 100 feet from roads in devel - at Lodgepole & Crescent vents ready use prior to enter - Meadow. No water at Halstead, oped areas (picnic areas, ing national parks. In National • RIDE HORSEBACK campgrounds, along roads). Powdercan, Grizzly Falls, Forest : Only during the season Lodgepole, & Crescent Meadow. Call first regarding closing In National Forest: Pets with a license: 1-559-243-4005. can go on trails. In both • HAVE A FIRE - In the Parks: dates, hourly rides, backcoun - try spot trips, & guided trips. areas: Pets must be on a • GO CAMPING - In the Parks : Only in fire grills in some camp - leash less than 6 feet (1.8m) Only in numbered sites in grounds and some picnic areas. • Cedar Grove long. Don’t leave pets in hot designated campgrounds. In National Forest : Free fire 1-559-565-3464 summer cars. In National For est : In camp - permits are required, even for 1-559-337-2314 off season grounds or, unless posted other - • GO CAMPING - In the gas stoves and lanterns. Some • Grant Grove - closed wise, near roadsides. Pull safely areas are more restricted than 1-559-335-9292 summer Parks: Only in numbered off the road, no further. sites in designated camp - others. Get permits at Kings 1-559-594-9307 off season grounds. In National For- • SNOWMOBILE - Not in the Canyon Park Visitor Center (in • Horse Corral est: In campgrounds or, Parks . In National Forest : Grant Grove) or USFS office in At Big Meadows in unless posted otherwise, near Only on designated routes. Dunlap on Hwy 180. Sequoia National Forest: roadsides. Pull safely off the Snowmobile trailheads are at • CUT WOOD - Not in the Parks . 1-559-565-3404 summer road, no further. Big Meadows, Cherry Gap, & In National Forest : Call Hume 1-559-564-6429 off season Quail Flat. 1-559-243-4005. • DRIVE OFF-ROAD - Not in Lake Ranger District for permit 1-559-679-3573 cell either area . Stay on roads. • GO FISHING - In both areas : and guidelines: 1-559-338-2251. & SEQUOIA NATIONAL FOREST / GIANT SEQUOIA NATIONAL MONUMENT FALL 2009 3 WILDERNESS Change: Natural & unnatural OVERNIGHTS Each park trail has a daily entry quota for overnight trips, and We often think of parks as outdoor museums. Caretaking a living ecosystem, between late May and late however, is very different than protecting unchanging objects. September a wilderness camping fee of $15 is required. The quota Both natural features and human facilities may be different each time you visit Both are changing and fee are used to help protect all the time. How we take care of those features and facilities may also affect your visit. You won’t your wilderness environment and notice the ozone monitor that works 24 hours a day, but you will see other activities such as revegeta - experience. (They are not required tion, road work, painting, or trail maintenance. Some activities may unavoidably affect you, such as for day hikes, or for overnights in the adjacent Monarch and Jennie smoke from a prescribed fire, campsite closures due to revegetation, or bear management. Lakes wildernesses in US Forest The park staff uses such actions as tools to maintain the landscape and protect its inhabitants and Service. However, a free fire permit visitors. Your visit gives you but a snapshot of this process; Nature decides the timing of many of these is required for any open flame on actions. They all share one goal: preservation of these parks for us all, now and in the future. USFS land.) A permit is required for each overnight trip. Reserved and first- Fire: A natural change come, first-served permits are issued the morning of your trip or Years ago, we tried to banish fire from the land - after 1pm the day before at the scape, believing it was destructive. In sequoia park permit station/visitor center groves, that meant putting out lightning-caused nearest your trailhead (see pages 8 fires that naturally start as frequently as every 5 to & 9). If the quota for your prefer- red trail is full, you can choose 20 years. another trail for that day or anoth - As time passed, we saw unanticipated conse - er day to start, if space is available. quences from this. Fire suppression blocked Permits are not issued after mid- important ecological processes and caused many afternoon as minimum distances problems. Two problems were glaring: must be reached before you camp. Requests to reserve a permit for First, sequoias were not reproducing. We a certain date are accepted begin - learned that fires create the conditions that ning March 1 and at least 2 weeks sequoias need to regenerate: They create a fertile before your trip's start date. ash seedbed and they open the forest canopy, Reserved permits must be picked allowing sunlight to reach the seedlings. up either the afternoon before or Second, dead wood and small, dense white fir by 9am on the day of departure. If delayed, call the Wilderness Office trees increased tremendously. Natural fires used to or you may lose the reservation. burn these away frequently. Now, after fire’s long Camping in the park's "front - absence, these fuels feed bigger blazes that are more country" is permitted only in camp - dangerous for people, property, plants, and wildlife. grounds. Camping or sleeping in They burn hotter and are harder to put out. vehicles is not allowed in parking lots, pull-outs, picnic areas, or trail - For over 40 years at Sequoia and Kings Canyon, heads in the park. we have studied fire and its effects on the land. Now, to protect human safety and benefit giant Wilderness Permit Reservations sequoia trees, the National Park Service works with Sequoia & Kings Canyon N.P. fire to gain the benefits it brings. 47050 Generals Highway #60 When and where it’s appropriate, we may ignite Three Rivers, CA 93271 1-559-565-3766; Fax 565-4239 prescribed fires or allow lightning-caused fires to spread naturally, reducing fuels and improving For more details, visit Wilderness resource conditions. Strong evidence shows that we Information at www.nps.gov/seki/ planyourvisit/wilderness.htm or call. are succeeding. Fire in the Sierra usually hugs the ground. Why is this important? The National Park System HIGH SIERRA LODGE Its low flames clear dangerous built-up fuels. exists to conserve resources “unimpaired for the Without it, these fuels would feed intense, enjoyment of future generations.” We once thought • BEARPAW MEADOW CAMP hard-to-control wildfires. The natural burn (DNCPR) www.visitsequoia.com that aggressive fire suppression met this goal. A Reservations required: pattern includes occa sion al hot spots. more complete understanding of fire tells us that These leave important openings in the forest — 1-888-252-5757. Open mid-June excluding this important natural agent of change to mid-September. This tent the sunny, bare places where sequoia trees only hurts what we are trying to protect. hotel is at 7800´ on the High regenerate best. ©NPS Photo Sierra Trail, an 11-mile hike from Giant Forest. Unnatural change: Alien invaders! Plants and animals evolve together in Two immediate threats: communities over time. Often they keep each Star thistle is one of the most damaging other in check. When species get brought in non-natives in the state. Dense, thorny from other places, the newcomers may multi - patches completely exclude native plants, ply wildly since the competitors, predators and limit wildlife movements. Not yet estab - and diseases they evolved with in their home lished here! If you recognize it from your communities are not here. They break links in home or travels, make sure not to bring it in. the local web of life, badly disrupting species that depend on each other. Sometimes they New Zealand Mud Snails take over water - completely replace native plants and animals. ways that they invade, eating most of the Practice alien hygiene! Look for seeds and food. Due to their biology, just one snail can NEW tiny animals attached to shoes, clothes, waders, start a huge population! They stick on gear; ZEALAND equipment, tires, and pet fur. Wash mud from check boots & waders thoroughly for this MUD under cars and on tires before coming into the tiny invader. Common just east of the parks. SNAIL parks. The natives will thank you! STAR THISTLE Could easily be carried into the High Sierra. 4 FALL 2009 SEQUOIA & KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS RATTLESNAKES are especially CELL PHONES rarely work well YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR SAFETY! common in the foothills. Watch in these mountains; don’t rely on Natural areas present hazards: Rocks roll, trees topple, limbs where you put your hands and them. Note where pay telephones drop without warning. Wild animals, uneven ground, and feet! They are available (see pages 8 & 9) and changing weather can pose dangers. People create other haz- are protect - dial 9-1-1 in an emergency. ards through campfires, traffic, snowplay, and poor decisions. ed; do not COUGARS roam throughout the Drowning causes most deaths here. Some victims walking kill them. parks, but chances of seeing one near rivers fell in; others didn’t understand river currents. Most bit es are very small. They rarely attack Park staff work to reduce risks, but your safety is in your result from people and pets, but be aware. own hands. Keep alert. Read warnings. Ask a ranger for advice. teasing or Avoid hiking alone. Watch children hand ling. Very closely; never let them run ahead. few people die, but tissue damage If you see a cougar, the goal is to can be severe. If bitten, avoid panic; convince it that you are not prey call a ranger or 911. and may be dangerous to it: LIGHTNING : If you see dark • Don’t run. Cougars associate clouds or lightning or hear thunder, running with prey and give Be Safe! get inside a large build ing or a vehi - chase. cle (not convertible), if possible. Do • Try to appear as large as possi - not stand under trees or in shallow ble. Don’t crouch or try to hide. caves. Avoid projecting above the • Hold your ground or back away surrounding landscape such as slowly while facing the lion. DROWNING : Two have drowned TICKS : Common in foot hill and standing on a ridge, on Moro Rock, • Pick up children. so far this year! It is the #1 cause of Kings Canyon grasses; check your - or in open mea dows. Stay away • If the lion acts ag gres sively, death in national parks. Be extra self after a walk. Their bite from open water, wire fences, wave your hands, shout, and careful along rivers and streams; is painless, but a percentage and metal railings, which can carry throw stones or sticks at it. falling in is as dangerous as swim - carry Lyme disease. Remove lightning from a distance. • If attacked, fight back! ming. Once in a river, getting out them carefully with tweezers; • Report any cougar sightings. WEST NILE VIRUS is passed by can be nearly impossible. Rocks are seek a doctor’s advice. bites from infected mosquitos. EXPLORE SAFELY : Avoid going smooth and slippery; swift, cold GIARDIA in lakes and streams Human illness is not common, but alone. Tell someone your plans water rapidly saps your strength. can cause intestinal upset. Iodine take steps to avoid mosquito bites. and return time. Keep your eyes PLAGUE : Please do not feed or and other chemicals may not be as and ears open for potential hazards CARBON MONOXIDE : This touch ANY park animals. Fleas on reliable as heat in killing bac teria above and around you. Slow down odorless, colorless gas can be fatal. rodents can carry plague. Deer and Giardia, but can be effective if and share roads and trails with Never burn charcoal in closed mice feces can carry hantavirus. used properly. Boil drinking water people and wildlife. spaces, e.g. a tent, camper, or RV. at least 3 minutes. POISON OAK : SAFE DRINKING WATER : OZONE POLLUTION : See air- Common in the HYPOTHERMIA : This life-threat - The parks’ 13 water systems are quality forecasts in visitor centers. foothills! Red ening condition can occur year- tested to ensure that they meet Most ozone rises into the Sierra leaves with whitish round. Stay dry and snack often. If state and federal standards. Annual on warm winds. Levels of this berries in fall, bare others don’t respond to the need Consumer Con fidence Reports are colorless gas are highest May to in winter; shiny for warmer clothes or are stum - available at visitor centers. October, peaking in late afternoon. green leaves in bling, forgetful, or extremely tired The peaks sometimes reach OPERATION NO-GROW groups of three in and drowsy, get warm sugary “unhealthy” state/federal stan - Prevent illegal marijuana growing! spring. Ask a ranger to show you. If drinks into them immediately. Get dards, and can affect respiratory Keep parks safe, natural, and free you touch any part of it, wash skin them into dry clothing, sleeping systems. Ozone forms from gases in from illegal activities! Report suspi - and clothes right away. bags, and shelter. car and factory exhaust. cious activities: 1-888-NPS-CRIME. ICY ROAD CONDITIONS PREVENT CAR FIRES, Cold fall temperatures can PROTECT PLANTS & SOILS, RRuulleess ooff tthhee rrooaadd mean icy areas, especially in the & LET OTHERS PASS morning and in the shade. If it Use paved turnouts only . ROAD DELAYS & ROUGH FINDING GASOLINE snows, watch out for plows. LENGTH ADVISORY SURFACES - See page 12. No gas stations lie within park Recorded information: 559-565- On 12 narrow miles from Pot- boundaries. Only Grant Grove 3341 (press 9, then 4). SLOW DOWN FOR WILDLIFE market sells cans of emerg ency wisha Campground to Giant Never feed animals along the gas. Fill up in Three Rivers, NARROW, WINDING ROADS Forest Museum, advised maxi - road! They often get hit by cars Clingan’s Junction, or in the & WINTER CLOSURES mum vehicle length is 22 feet if they wait for handouts. National Forest at: Hwy 180 into Cedar Grove clos - (6.7m). Maximum limit on the DON’T LOSE YOUR BRAKES • Hume Lake Christian Camp es at noon 11/12 until April. Gen er als Highway is 40 feet (12 Panoramic Point & Redwood Frequent braking + warm 559-335-2000: Year-round 24 m) for single vehicles, 50 feet Mountain (NPS), & Big weather can cause overheating hours with credit card. Diesel. (15 m) for veh i cl es plus a towed Meadows, Quail Flat/ Ten Mile, and brake failure. Always 11 miles (18 km) north of unit. Alter n ative: Hwy 180 from Converse Basin (FS): Close with down shift when going down - Grant Grove via Hwy 180. Fresno is straighter, less steep, snow . hill. In automatic vehicles, put • Stony Creek Village 1-559-565- & wid er. If towing a car, park in C rystal C ave Road: Closes 10/26 the gear shift on 1, 2 or L. The 3909: Open through 10/12.??? the foothills and explore by car. at the latest. Maximum vehicle en gine gets louder as it slows Available 24 hours with cred - length 22’ (6.7m). EMERGENCY CAR REPAIRS the car, but it saves the brakes. it card. Diesel. Between Moro Rock/Crescent Meadow For a tow: Call 565-3341 then Wuksachi & Grant Grove on press zero (24 hours). Only in AVOID OVERHEATING the Generals Hwy. Road: Closes with snow. No Watch the engine temperature Sequoia Park, AAA is available • Kings Canyon Lodge 1-559- drinking water available on this gauge. If it starts to go up, for out-of-gas, lock outs, jump 335-2405: Gas sales usually road. especially when going up hill, starts, minor repairs : Call 565- 8am-7pm through mid- Mineral King Road: Closes by turn off the air conditioner and 4070 (24 hours). November. 5-gallon minimum noon 11/1. RVs & trailers not turn on the fan. If the engine sale. 17 mil es (27 km) north recommended (not permitted in BICYCLES fails, pull into a paved area, lift from Grant Grove on Hwy 180 campgrounds). Ride only on roads (not trails), the hood, and wait a while. If South Fork & Middle Fork Roads: single file, with traffic. Wear vapor lock is the problem, this MOTORCYCLES Partially unpaved. Slippery light colors after dark. People may take care of it. Avoid oil buildup on roads. when wet. under 18 must wear a helmet.

& SEQUOIA NATIONAL FOREST / GIANT SEQUOIA NATIONAL MONUMENT FALL 2009 5 CONGRESS TRAIL : A fairly THE level 2-mile loop (3.2 km) through the heart of the grove. FOOTHILLS Begins at the Sherman Tree. The Sierra’s lower eleva - MORO ROCK/ tions offer CRESCENT MEADOW more differ - No drinking water is available ent kinds of along this 3-mile (5 km), dead- plants and end road that begins at Giant animals than Forest Museum. This road clos - the conifer es with snowfall. Highlights: forests or MORO ROCK : A granite dome highcountry. with a steep 1/4-mile (.4 km) Watch for staircase to the summit (300 ticks and poi - foot /91 m elevation gain). A son oak (see spectacular view of the Great page 5 for safety tips). Western Divide. Two miles (3.2 HOSPITAL ROCK PICNIC km) from the Generals AREA : Exhibits about the Highway. Do not climb if steps Western Mono people who once are icy. lived here and a very short trail TUNNEL LOG : A fallen built by the Civilian Conservation sequoia that was tunneled Corps leads to a waterfall. through, and the only “tree you Careful; drownings often occur can drive through” in these here! Always use bear boxes to parks. There is a by-pass for store food from bears. Only keep l l

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B through chaparral to a lovely cas - nated trails; use only fallen logs © to walk into meadows. Several cade. Park near site #14 at o t

o trails start here. Try the 1-mile Potwisha Campground. Take the h

P (1.6 km) route to Tharp’s Log, a dirt road across the concrete cabin in a fallen sequoia, or the ditch; the trail starts along the High Sierra Trail (71 miles/114 steep bank to the right. km to Mt. Whit ney, at 14,494 PARADISE CREEK : At feet /4417 m, the highest peak Buckeye Flat Camp ground, fol - in the lower 48 states). low the footpath across from site AUTO LOG : Once you could #26 and the footbridge over the drive a car onto this fallen giant Middle Fork. The trail fol l ows Highlights sequoia, but rot in the log has Paradise Creek, not the Middle put an end to the tradition. Fork, for 1-1/2 miles (1.6 km) before grow ing faint. SEQUOIA PARK NEARBY TRAILS TOKOPAH FALLS : 1.7 miles SOUTH FORK (2.7 km) along the Marble Fork Park at South Fork Campground at of the Kaweah River, ending the end of a 13-mile road leaving below impressive granite cliffs Highway 198 in Three Rivers. GIANT FOREST GENERAL SHERMAN TREE: and a waterfall. Be careful by LADYBUG: Hike along the Two trails run to the world’s the water! Start in Lodgepole South Fork of the Kaweah in the largest tree: Campground. For the 500 upper foot hills (moderately Review safety tips • Main trail at Upper Sherman on page 5. Take foot/152 m elevation gain, allow steep). From the campground, (with a large parking lot that warm clothes, a 2-1/2 to 3 hours. cross the river via footbridge. The closes with the first snow), runs map, sunglasses, LITTLE BALDY: Ascends 700 trail ends 3 miles (5 km) up at one 1/2 mile down to the tree and and water. vertical feet (213 m) in 1.7 miles of the lowest-elevation sequoia Orient yourself has some stairs. It is an uphill (2.7 km) to a rocky summit with a groves. before heading walk back to your car. Drive grand view. Starts at Little Baldy GARFIELD: A relatively steep 5 out and tell two miles (3.2 km) north of Saddle, 9 miles (14 km) north of mile (8.3 km) one-way climb to someone where Giant Forest Museum (past the the General Sherman Tree on the Garfield seq uoia grove. Start on you are going. small Sherman Tree parking lot Generals Highway. Allow 3 to 4 the south side of the river in the hours round trip. You are on your own in the woods for those with disabled placards campground. — be safe and enjoy. only) to Wolverton Road. Turn GIANT FOREST MUSEUM right, then follow signs. MINERAL KING • Wheelchair accessible trail at The best place to learn about Open late May through October 31 (weather permit - sequoias! Lower Sherman has parking for those with disabled placards ting), the winding, steep road to this valley ends at BIG TREES TRAIL only. If you don’t have a placard 7800' (2380 m), the park’s highest road. From there, A level, 2/3-mile (1 km) loop with but can’t make the walk down trails lead to the High Sierra and excellent — if hilly colorful trailside panels describ - — hiking. Fall weather can be severe on the passes; the main trail, ask at any visitor ing sequoia ecology. Start at ask for a weather report. No gasoline or electricity is center for a temporary permit. Giant Forest Museum; parking at available. Starting November 1, the road is gated at When the upper lot closes for the trail is only for cars with plac - the park boundary (about 9 miles from Highway ards. 1 hour round trip. winter, anyone can park here. 198). See page 8 for more information.

6 FALL 2009 SEQUOIA & KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS BIG BALDY RIDGE: Great TAKE A HIKE! views into Red-wood Canyon. Two-mile trail (3.2km) to the MIST FALLS: One of the park's summit at 8,209 feet (2502m). largest waterfalls. Allow 4-5 From Grant Grove, go 8 miles hours; 9 miles (14.4 km) round (13km) south on Generals trip. Fairly flat at first; 600-foot Highway to trailhead. Elevation elevation gain in the last 2 miles Highlights gain 600 feet (183m); round trip (3.2 km). Park at Road’s End. 4 miles (6.4km). DON CECIL TRAIL : The main KINGS CANYON KINGS CANYON OVER - route into the canyon prior to LOOK: View northeast to the the 1939 completion of Highway High Sierra wilderness, stop at 180. It starts .2 miles (.3 km) east this overlook about 6 miles of the village, climbs a north- (9.5km) south of Grant Grove. facing slope past Sheep Creek Cascade (1 mile/1.6 km up) to REDWOOD MOUNTAIN good views. Lookout Peak (13- OVERLOOK: Six miles mile/21-km round trip, 4000 (9.6 km) south of Grant Grove, foot/ 1220 m elevation gain) has across the Generals Highway a great panorama. Stren uous; from Quail Flat junction, it looks allow all day. west over one of the world’s largest sequoia groves. Studies HOTEL CREEK TRAIL : Starts here proved the positive rela - .2 mile (.3 km) north of the tionship between fire and mar ket at the intersection with sequoia reproduction. the pack station road. Climbs through chap arral to forest and THE KINGS views from Cedar Grove Over- look. 5 miles (8 km) round trip; CANYON & 1200-foot/365 m elevation gain. CEDAR GROVE Strenuous; allow 3 - 4 hours. Hwy 180 to this area closes Return via Lewis Creek Trail for November 12 at noon. Take time an 8-mile (12.9 km) loop. to see at least part of this spectacu - lar gorge. Be very careful around USFS NATIONAL the water! FOREST CANYON VIEW: The “U” Explore Giant Sequoia National shape of this can yon, apparent Monument, part of Sequoia National from this viewpoint, reveals its Forest (see page 2 for Park or glacial history. 1 mile (1.6 km) Forest ). east of Cedar Grove Village CONVERSE BASIN : Virtually road. every mature sequoia in this BEFORE EXPLORING: NEARBY TRAILS & KNAPP’S CABIN: During the huge grove was felled early in Review safety advice on page 5. POINTS OF INTEREST Roaring ’20s, Santa Barbara busi - the 1900s. Walk the 2-mile (3.2 You are on your own in the PANORAMIC POINT ROAD: nessman George Knapp com - km) Boole Tree loop to see a monarch they spared (6 miles park — be safe! This steep, narrow road leads to missioned lavish fishing expedi - 1 north of Grant Grove), or the ⁄2- a High-Sierra vista. Go east tions here, using this small cabin GRANT GROVE mile (.8 km) loop to the Chicago GRANT GROVE through visitor-center parking, to store gear. A short walk from Stump, a tree cut for exhibit at GENERAL GRANT TREE: left around the meadow, right at a turnout 2 miles (3.2 km) east the 1893 World’s Fair (2 miles One of the world’s largest living the sign “Panoramic Point, 2.3 of Cedar Grove Village road. 1 north of Grant Grove) . trees. President Coolidge pro - miles (3.7km).” Walk ⁄4 mile claimed it the Nation’s Christ- (.4km) up to viewpoint. ROARING RIVER FALLS: A INDIAN BASIN : A one-mile mas Tree in 1926. It is also a Trailers/RVs not recommended. shady 5-minute walk to a power - accessible trail and one-mile National Shrine, the only living The 4-mile (6.4 km) round-trip ful waterfall rushing through a unpaved trail offer a look at me morial to those who died in Park Ridge Trail begins here. narrow granite chute. 3 miles how this meadow and forest are (4.8 km) east of the Village road. recovering after logging a centu - war. Visit historic Gamlin Cabin BUENA VISTA PEAK: South of and the Fallen Monarch along Paved, relatively accessible. ry ago. Take Highway 180, 7 1 Kings Canyon Overlook on west miles north of Grant Grove; this ⁄3-mile (.5 km) paved trail. A side of Generals Highway, 7 ZUMWALT MEADOW: This trail guide is sold at the visitor turn into Princess Campground. miles (11 km) south of Grant 1.5-mile (2.4 km) trail offers high Trail begins by the host’s site. center. North and west of the Grove. Trail to 360° vista of granite walls, lush meadows, and HUME LAKE , formed by a rare, visitor center 1 mile (1.6 km). Redwood Canyon, Buck Rock the winding Kings River. Park at 1 historic, multiple-arch dam, NORTH GROVE LOOP: This Lookout, and High Sierra. 2 trailhead 4 ⁄2 miles (7.2 km) east 1 supplied water to a flume that lightly traveled, 1 ⁄2 mile (2.4 km) miles (3.2 km) round trip. of the Cedar Grove Village road. trail provides a close look at the floated lumber 67 miles (108km) REDWOOD CANYON: Rough Purchase a trail guide at the visi - 1 to Sanger. An easy 2 ⁄2-mile (4 Big Trees and a quiet walk tor center. Allow 1 hour. dirt road to the world’s largest km) trail circles it. Page 9 lists through conifer forest. Starts at sequoia grove. Acres of rejuve - ROAD’S END: facilities. Eight miles (12.8 km) lower Grant Tree parking area. nating forest from 30 years of Here where the pave - north of Grant Grove on High - DEAD GIANT LOOP: prescribed fires show the posi - ment ends are high way 180; 3 miles (4.8 km) south Speculate on what killed this tive relationship between fire granite walls and sequoia, and enjoy a pictur - and sequoias. Across Generals on Hume Lake Road. trails to the river, esque view of an historic mill Highway from Quail Flat/ BUCK ROCK LOOKOUT : Muir Rock, and the pond. Follow the old road from Hume Lake junction (7 miles/ A 1916 tower, still used for spot - High Sierra. East of the lower Grant Tree parking 11.3km south of Grant Grove), ting fires, offers 360 ° views. area for about a mile. The trail to Redwood Saddle. Turn the Village turnoff 5- Approx-imately 6 miles (9.6 km) 1 1/2 miles (8.8 km). branches off, creating a 1 ⁄2 mile right (west) and go 2 miles off Big Meadows Road 14S11, (2.4 km) round trip. (3.2km) to parking lot. then Forest Road 13S04.

& SEQUOIA NATIONAL FOREST / GIANT SEQUOIA NATIONAL MONUMENT FALL 2009 7 FACILITIES IN SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK Giant Forest Area Foothills Area GIANT FOREST SEQUOIA GROVE 500-3500’ (457-1067 m) elevation. Characterized by chaparral, 6400’ (1950m) elevation. Home of the world’s biggest trees, it oaks, river canyons, hot summers and snow-free winters, the offers 40 miles (64 km) of walking trails. For nearby picnic areas foothills offer year-round interest. Park headquarters is here see page 3 and the map on page 12. See Highlights on page 6. at Ash Mountain. • Visitor Center (NPS) : Daily 8am-4:30pm. Exhibits, books, maps, • Giant Forest Museum (NPS) : Daily 9am-5pm into late October bear canisters, first aid, local wilderness permits. 1-559-565-4212. then 9am-4:30pm. Exhibits about the Big Trees. Books, maps, first • Camping (NPS) : At Potwisha (year-round) & Buckeye Flat (last aid. 1-559-565-4480. No payphone; closest are at Lodgepole & night open 9/29). Details on page 11. Wolverton (don’t rely on cell phones). • Pay Telephones (cell phone signals are usually poor): Foothills Visitor Center near front door; Potwisha Campground, Hospital CRYSTAL CAVE - Through 10/25, weather permitting Rock Picnic Area (on restroom wall). One of the park’s highlights! See page 3 for details & schedule. Mineral King Area Lodgepole Area 7800’ (2380 m) elevation. A subalpine valley at the end of a 1 LODGEPOLE VILLAGE steep, narrow, difficult road (allow 1 ⁄2 hours to drive; closes 6700’ (2040 m) elevation. A few miles north of Giant Forest, in 11/1). No RVs, buses, or trailers, please. No electricity or gaso - beautiful Tokopah Canyon along the Marble Fork of the Kaweah line. River. For nearby picnic areas see page 3 & the map on page 12. • Ranger Station (NPS): Daily 8am-4pm most days through 9/26 INFORMATION (NPS) (then self issue permits on porch). Books, maps, first aid, wilder - ness permits. • Wilderness Permits : Required for backcountry overnight trips. • Pay Telephones: Cold Springs Campground, Sawtooth parking Available in Lodgepole Visitor Center 7am-3:30pm through 9/26, area. Cell phone signals are extremely poor. then self-register outside along the front wall of the visitor center. See page 4 for details. 1-559-565-3766. • Silver City Mountain Resort : Open late May thru 10/31. Cabins, • Visitor Center : Daily 7am-5pm through 9/26, then 8am-4:30. chalets, showers, small store (gifts, limited supplies, no gasoline, Stays open as long as Crystal Cave does — 10/25, unless weather no fishing licenses). Restaurant/store: Thursday-Monday 8am- closes it sooner — then closes for the season. Crystal Cave tickets 7pm; Tuesday-Wednesday 8am-2pm pie & coffee only. Pay tele - sold 8am-4pm. Bears of Sequoia movie; exhibits on geology & for - phone. 1-559-561-3223; www.silvercityresort.com. est life; books; maps; first aid; wilderness permits. Pay phone. • Camping (NPS): No RVs or trailers. Details: page 11. 1-559-565-4436. Wuksachi FOOD, SHOPS & OTHER SERVICES (DNCPR) • Market, Gift Shop: Daily 9am-6pm through 9/27 then 10am- LODGE & DINING ROOM (DNCPR) 4:30pm through 10/25 then closed. Groceries, pre-made 7200’ (2160 m) elevation. Year-round center for lodging & food sandwiches, supplies, bear canisters, ice cream, film, souvenirs. services in Sequoia; 4 miles (6.4 km) north of the Sherman Tree. • Harrison Snack Bar : Weekends only 9am-6pm through 9/27 Delaware North Companies Parks & Resorts and the then closed. National Park Foundation have made it easy for Wuksachi • Laundry: Same as Market hours. Last load in 1 hour before Lodge guests to contribute to these parks. Ask about the closing. Last day 10/25. Guest Donation Program when you check in! • Showers : Daily 9am-1pm & 3-5:30pm through 9/27, then 9am-4pm through 10/25. Closed starting 10/26. • Dining Room: Daily 7:30am-9:30pm, 11:30am-2:30pm, 5-8:30pm. • U.S. Post Office : Weekdays 8am-1pm & 2-4pm. 1-559-565-3678. Dinner reservations required. Box lunches available. 1-559-565- • Lodgepole Campground (NPS) : Year round. 4070. Lounge daily 5-8:30pm. Details on page 11. • Gift Shop: Daily 8am-8pm. Film, souvenirs, crafts, clothing. • Pay Telephones: Outside visitor center & market (poor cell signals). • Wuksachi Lodge: See page 10 for details. Front desk 24 hours. • Pay Telephones : At main lodge. Cell-phone signals often poor.

FREE NATURE PROGRAMS

AT GIANT FOREST, LODGEPOLE, & IN THE FOOTHILLS

Park rangers may offer free walks and talks on weekends. Check local bulletin boards and visitor centers for details.

Once conditions permit, snowshoe walks may be offered at the higher elevations. Stay tuned!

Non-campers are welcome!

8 FALL 2009 SEQUOIA & KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS FACILITIES IN KINGS CANYON PARK & USFS Grant Grove Area Paying Your Entrance Fee at GRANT GROVE VILLAGE Kings Canyon in Grant Grove 6600’ (2008 m) elevation. This was originally General Grant Through mid-October, pay the required park and forest National Park, created in 1890 to protect sequoias from logging. entrance fee at the Big Stump Entrance Station, located Here are both a pristine grove & one that was logged in the 1800s. just off Hwy 180 inside the park boundary. Then the kiosk INFORMATION will move to the front of the visitor center in Grant Grove • Kings Canyon Park Visitor Center (NPS) : Daily 8am-5pm Village. Please stop to purchase or show your pass. through 10/24, then 9am-4:30pm. Exhibits & movie in English & One fee is good for visiting both parks and the forest! Spanish. Books, maps, first aid, bear canisters. Local wilderness 1 permits issued up to ⁄2- hour before closing. 1-559-565-4307. USFS: National Forest & Monument FOOD & SHOPS (KCPS) • Restaurant : Daily 9am-2pm & 5-7pm (8pm on Friday-Saturday). HUME LAKE & BIG MEADOWS AREAS (FS) Giant Sequoia National Monument, part of Sequoia National • Gift Shop & Market : Daily 9am-6pm (7pm on Friday-Saturday). Forest, borders much of the western edge of these National Souvenirs, film, clothing, ATM. Market sells food & other supplies, sandwiches, bear canisters, & cans of emergency gasoline. Parks. You are in National Forest when you drive between park areas Lodgepole and Grant Grove, and between Grant Grove OTHER SERVICES and Cedar Grove (see page 2, Parks and Forests). Sold to the • Camping & Lodging : See page 10-11. Lodge front desk 7am-10pm. government as a Forest Reserve in 1935, it is an excellent place to • Showers: Bath house in Meadow Camp Cabin area 11am-4pm. Pay see sequoias recovering from intensive logging in the late 1800s. with quarters. PAY TELEPHONES • Post Office : Hours may vary. Monday-Friday 9am-3:30 pm; Cell-phone signals are usually poor. Calling cards may be required. Saturday 10-noon. Lobby open 24 hours. Send mail for visitors c/o • Between Wuksachi Village & Grant Grove: Summer only at General Delivery, Kings Canyon NP, CA 93633. 1-559-335-2499. Stony Creek Resort & Big Meadows trailhead. • Stables - Horseback Riding : Details on page 3. Closed for winter. • Between Grant Grove & Cedar Grove : Hume Lake (year round; • Pay Telephones : Available 24 hours at Kings Canyon Visitor see Hume Lake below); Kings Canyon Lodge (summer only). Center (booth by front door); & outside gift shop, market, & post INFORMATION office. They use calling cards only. • USFS Hume Lake District Office (FS): 35860 E. Kings Canyon Road (Hwy 180) in Dunlap, 19 miles (31 km) west of Kings In the Kings Canyon Canyon park entrance at Big Stump. Open 8am-4:30pm Highway 180 from Kings Canyon Lodge into the canyon weekdays. Maps & books sold. 1-559-338-2251; closes on Thursday, November 12 at noon, due to regular, www.fs.fed.us/r5/sequoia. heavy rockfall that occurs once it starts to get cold. LODGING & OTHER SERVICES • Camping (FS) & Lodging (private): See pages 10 & 11 for details. CEDAR GROVE VILLAGE CEDAR GROVE VILLAGE • Montecito Lake Resort (FS permittee): Open all year. A resort 4600’ (1410 m) elevation. This glaciated valley features towering on public land. On Generals Highway 9 miles (14.5km) south of granite cliffs, tumbling waterfalls, and the powerful Kings River. Grant Grove. Breakfast 7:30-9am, lunch 12-1:30pm, dinner 5:30- INFORMATION 7pm. Cabins, hotel, activities. 1-800-227-9900 or 1-559-565-3388. • Visitor Center (NPS) : Friday-Sunday 9am-5pm through 9/27 then • Hume Lake: Year-round private facilities open to public: 24- closed for the season. Books, maps, first aid, bear canisters. hour laundry (coin operated) & gas station (with credit card). 1-559-565-3793. Closes late September. Pay telephone. Market & snack shop . North of Grant Grove 8 miles (13km) on • Wilderness Permits (NPS) : At Road’s End, 6 miles (9.6km) east of Hwy 180, then right on Hume Lake Road 3 miles (5km). 1-559- the village. Daily 7am-3pm daily through 9/26. No permits issued 335-2000. after 2:45pm. Maps, bear canisters. Self-registration starting 9/27. • Boyden Cavern : On Highway 180 between Grant Grove & FOOD, LODGING & SHOPS (KCPS) - Open through 10/17 Cedar Grove. Daily tours on the hour 11am-4pm; closes Gift • Restaurant : Counter-service meals & snack bar; not a full-service shop. Ages 14 & up $13; 3-13 $6.50; under 3 free. AAA 10% dis - restaurant. Weekdays 8-10:30am & 5-7pm; weekends 8am-2pm & count. Senior and Access Interagency Pass discounts do not apply. 5-7pm. Pay telephone. Schools & other group reservations: 1-559-338-0959. • Gift Shop & Market : Salads, sandwiches, supplies, bear canisters, • Stony Creek Village (FS): On Generals Highway south of Grant souvenirs. Daily 8am-7pm through 10/17. Pay telephone. Grove. Last night 10/11; last day of business 10/12. Daily: Market 8am-7pm. Pizza restaurant 2:30-7pm . Showers/laundry. Gasoline 24 OTHER SERVICES - Showers and lodging close 10/18. hours with credit card. 1-866-KCANYON; 1-559-565-3909. • Camping & Lodging : See pages 10-11. • Showers : Daily 8am-1pm & 3-6pm. GASOLINE SALES on FOREST LANDS • At Hume Lake year-round; Stony Creek and Kings Canyon Lodge • Horseback Riding : Details on page 3. Closes in fall. late spring through early fall. See page 3 for details.

FREE NATURE PROGRAMS Reduced programmingin fall. See bulletin boards for details of those being offered. Non-campers welcome!

IN GRANT GROVE: IN CEDAR GROVE: •Grant Tree Walks: 2pm daily through 9/26. Meet at •Zumwalt Meadow Walk: Friday-Saturday the Grant Tree Trail. Other programs may be offered 2-3:30pm through 9/26. Meet at Zumwalt on October-November weekends & holidays. Meadow parking area for this meander. •Evening programs: Friday-Saturday through 9/26. •Evening programs: Friday-Saturday Join us in the Sunset Campground Amphitheater. 7:30pm through 9/26 at the amphitheater Time & topics vary; check locally. near the visitor center. Time & topics vary; •Snowshoe walks begin 12/26, conditions permitting. check locally.

&S ESQEUQOUIOAI NAA NTIAOTNIOALN AFOL RFEOSRT E&S TG I/A NGTIA SNETQ USOEIQAU NOAITAI ONNAATLI OMNOANLU MEONNT UMENT FALL S2U0M0M9 ER 2001 99 LODGING SEQUOIA PARK • Wuksachi Village (DNCPR) Reservations: 1-888-252-5757 Staying Overnigh t Front Desk: 1-559-565-4070 www.visitsequoia.com. Open all year. North of Giant Forest Museum 6 miles (9.6 km). Lodge, restaurant, lounge, gifts. * Silver City Mountain Resort * CAMPING DO S & DON’T S: These rules protect the park & you! Summer: 1-559-561-3223 NOTE: Rules may vary between the Park and the National Forest. Check page 3 for details. Winter: 1-805-528-2730 www.silvercityresort.com. Open KEEP FOOD GROUP SITES & MAXI- RVS & TRAILERS late May to late October. Cabins, FROM BEARS! MUM GROUP SIZES No hookups available. chalets, supplies, restaurant, Required all year! Learn how to UP TO 6 : Many campgrounds allow Dump stations: See page 11 chart. gifts, bakery, showers. No gas. do it correctly — see below. only 1 vehicle & 6 people per site. Trailers permitted in all but four KINGS CANYON PARK CAMPFIRE Check locally for slight variations park camp grounds; check chart • Grant Grove Lodge & RESTRICTIONS in these limits & parking loca - on page 11. Many sites not suit - John Muir Lodge (KCPS) able for trailers or RVs. Sites Gather only dead & down wood; tions for extra vehicles. Reservations: 1-866-522-6966 may not be level. Vehicles over do not cut limbs from trees. 7 TO 19 : In summer, Crystal Front Desk: 1-559-335-5500 30 feet (9 m) long can fit in a Better yet, bring wood or buy Springs (Grant Grove) has first- www.sequoia-kingscanyon.com. small number of sites. it at a market. Fires must be come, first-served sites for groups Open all year. In Grant Grove. Length advisory: On Generals out cold before you leave. of 7-15. Canyon View in Cedar Hotel all year, cabins (May-Nov.), Highway in Sequoia Park, from In National Forest & Monument Grove has sites for 7-19. $35/site. restaurant, showers, store, gifts. Pot wisha Campground to Giant you must get a free campfire LARGER : Call in advance for infor - • Cedar Grove Lodge (KCPS) For est Museum, advised vehicle permit from the Hume Lake mation on requesting summer Reservations: 1-866-522-6966 length limit = 22 feet. See page 5 District Office, Kings Canyon group tent-camping sites: For Front Desk: 1-559-565-0100 for other limits & warnings. Visitor Center (Grant Grove), Sunset or Canyon View 1-559- www.sequoia-kingscanyon.com Mid-May through October 17. In or a Forest Service ranger. 565-4335 (5/1-10/31: 565-3792 PROPANE CANISTERS the Kings Canyon. Motel, public for Canyon View). To reserve Do not put propane or other fuel ROADSIDE CAMPING? showers, res tau rant, laundry, store. group sites in Dorst or in national canisters in park trash cans or Not permited in the park. Camp forest/monument: 1-877 -444- leave them in the parks. Take SEQUOIA NATIONAL only in designated sites in 6777 or www.recreation.gov. them with you when you leave. FOREST & MONUMENT campgrounds. In National CAMPING TIME LIMITS • Montecito Lake Resort (formerly Forest & Monument, roadside VOLUNTEER AS A HOST Montecito-Sequoia Lodge) camping is permitted unless 14 days between 6/14 & 9/14, with Live in the park, take care of camp - 30 days total per year. Reservations: 1-800-227-9900 post ed otherwise. Ask a ranger. grounds & resources, & meet Front Desk: 1-559-565-3388 NO HOLDING QUIET HOURS & great people! Learn about volun - www.mslodge.com. Open all year. CAMPSITES GENERATORS teer opportunities; contact On Generals Hwy 9 miles (14.5 km) Park Volunteer Coordinator, You may not hold a site for some - 10pm-6am. Generator use: At south of Grant Grove. Cabins, 47050 Generals High way, one who has not arrived. Sites Lodgepole & Dorst only 8-11am restaurant, hotel, lodge, seasonal Three Rivers, CA not occupied for 24 hours are & 5-8pm; at other campgrounds & children’s activities. 93271-9651. considered abandoned; proper - 9am-9pm only. Music should be • Stony Creek Lodge (KCPS) ty may be impounded. audible in your campsite only. Reservations: 1-866-522-6966 Front Desk: 1-559-565-3909. www.sequoia-kingscanyon.com YOU MUST STORE ALL FOOD! Open early May - October 12. On EARS quickly learn to get food from cars, picnic tables, and backpacks. Generals Highway between Grant They then be come destructive and sometimes ag gres sive. They want our Grove & Lodgepole. Restaurant, B market, showers, gas. Hotel. food, not us, but people can get hurt. Too often these bears must be killed. This is why you may be fined if you do not store food properly . • Big Meadows Cabin (FS) • DRIVERS : Never leave any food or scented item in cars. Take infant 1-877-444-6777; www.recreation. seats out of cars; the smells they absorb may attract bears. gov. Open mid-June to mid- October. An historic guard station • CAMPERS : Store food day and night in the metal boxes provided in the National Monument (see page 11 for box sizes; avoid bringing coolers that won’t fit). between Grant Grove & Lodgepole. Store ALL food, coolers, related items, and anything with an odor (even if it’s not food) -- including unopened cans and bottles. Latch the * Kings Canyon Lodge (Private *) box completely. Food not stored properly will be impounded. Where boxes Reservations: 1-559-335-2405 are not provided, store food in the car trunk (seal food to reduce Open mid-April to mid-November. odors). If the car has no trunk, put everything on the floor, cover it On Hwy 180, 13 miles (21 km) well, and close the windows. Keep a clean campsite. Deposit garbage east of Grant Grove. immediately in bear-proof containers or store it like food. save a * Note: The two facilities on • PICKNICKERS : Guard your food at all times. private land cannot be evaluated, • LODGE GUESTS : Keep cabin doors closed any time you leave. regulated, or endorsed by the • BACKPACKERS : Store all food in a portable canister. Less than bear! National Park or National Forest. 3 pounds, it holds up to 5-day’s food for one and fits in a pack. Sales from the NEIGHBORING TOWNS Metal boxes in a few backcountry locations offer backup storage. Three Rivers, Lemon Cove, Squaw Rent or buy a canister at park visitor centers or markets. Bears Save-a-Bear Kit Valley & others offer year-round defeat most attempts to hang food in trees. & color pin (above) lodging, camping, & services. Check • EVERYONE : Don’t let bears approach you or your food. Wave your directly support www.nps.gov/ seki, click PLAN YOUR arms, make loud noises, and throw small rocks in their direction bear management. VISI T then link to LODGING, or ask at (avoid hitting the face or head). Keep a safe distance but be persistent. See the pins at visitor centers. If a bear does get food, never try to take it back. visitor centers. WILDERNESS LODGE & PERMITS See page 4. 110 SUFMALML E2R0 0290 0 1 SEQUOSIEAQ U&O IKAI N& GKSIN CGAS NCYAONYNO NNA NTAITOINOANLA LP PAARRKKS S Each campsite has a table & fire ring with grill; no hook-ups. CAMPGROUNDS Food-storage is required! : Always read & follow instructions on bul - KEY TO SYMBOLS: FOOD STORAGE: Avoid bringing items that won’t fit in letin boards to help save a bear! bear boxes. Symbols on the chart tell the size of bear-proof food- “Nearby” - Within 2 miles / 3.2km See other rules on page 10. storage boxes available in each campground: ✔ *Summer reservations for Dorst & - Year-round # One small box per site (47” long x 17”deep x 16”high); Lodgepole (in Sequoia NP) & for ❂ - Summer only ✦ One large box per site (at least 47”long x 33”deep x 28”high); reservable campgrounds (marked * ✠ A mix of box sizes; below) in the National Forest (USFS) + Additional boxes available for sites to share. may be made up to 6 months in Food Showers Laundry Dump Nature Riding River Sequoias advance of the date desired. # of Daily Rest- within within within Station Programs Pay within within within Contact www.recreation. gov or 1- sites Fee rooms 2 miles 2 miles 2 miles Nearby Nearby Phone 2 miles 2 miles 2 miles 877-444-6777 or TDD 1-877-833-6777 (7am-9pm PST from 3/1-10/31). Customer service: 1-888-448-1474. # $ IN SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK (NPS) FOOTHILLS AREA Elevation 2100’-3600’. Lowest in elevation, therefore warmest. Potwisha : ✦ Open all year. 42 $18 Flush ✔❂✔ ✔ Buckeye Flat : ✦ Last night open 9/29. 28 $18 Flush at ❂✔ No trailers or RVs. Potwisha South Fork : # Open. 10 $12 May Vault ✔ Water ( non-potable only). -Sept. MINERAL KING AREA Elevation 6650’ - 7500’. Area open late May to 11/1. No RVs or trailers. Atwell Mill : ✦ Last night 10/31 . 21 $12 Vault ❂❂ ❂ ✔✔ Cold Springs : ✠ Last night 10/31 . 40 $12 Vault at Silver at Silver ❂ ✔✔ City City LODGEPOLE AREA Elevation 6700’. *Reservable in summer up to 6 months in advance ( see Reservations above.) *Lodgepole : ✠ + Open all year. 214 $20/18 Flush ❂❂❂❂✔ ❂ ✔✔ Reservation period 5/23 through 9/29. $20 during summer reservation period then $18. *Dorst : ✠ + Last night 9/9. 204 $20 Flush ❂❂❂ ✔✔ IN KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK (NPS) GRANT GROVE AREA Elevation 6500’. Azalea : ✦+ Open all year. 110 $18/10 Flush ✔❂ ✔at village ❂✔ Crystal Springs : ✦+ Closed. 36 $18 Flush ✔ ❂ ✔ “ ❂ ✔ Sites for groups of 7-15 (see page 10): 14 $35 Sunset : ✦+ Last night 9/8. 157 $18 Flush ✔ ❂ ✔ “ ❂ ✔ CEDAR GROVE AREA (ON THE FLOOR OF THE KINGS CANYON ) Elevation 4600’. Area closes November 12 at noon. Sentinel : 4600’ ✦ + Last night 9/29. 82 $18 Flush ❂❂❂ ❂at visitor ❂ center ✔

Sheep Creek : 4600’ ✦+ Last night 11/11. 111 $18 Flush ❂❂❂ ❂“ ❂✔ Canyon View : 4600’ ✦ No RVs or trailers. 23 $18 Flush ❂❂❂ ❂“ ❂ ✔ Last night 10/12. Sites for groups of 7-19 $35 Moraine : 4600’ ✦ Closed. 120 $18 Flush ❂❂❂ ❂“ ❂ ✔ SEQUOIA NATIONAL FOREST/GIANT SEQUOIA NATIONAL MONUMENT (FS) HUME LAKE AREA Elevation 4000’ - 5900’. *= reservable in summer. Closing dates vary, depend on weather. *Princess : 88 $17 Vault ❂$7 ❂✔✔ Closed for the season. single Dump station not recommended for vehicles over 30 feet long. *Hume Lake : + No water. Closes 9/27. 74 $19 “ Flush ✔✔❂✔✔ Tenmile : No water. Open until snowfall. 13 $15 Vault ✔✔ Landslide : Closes 9/27. 9 $15 Vault ✔✔

Convict Flat : No water. Closes 11/12. 5 Vault ✔ BIG MEADOWS & STONY CREEK AREAS Elevation 6400-7500’. *= reservable in summer. *Stony Creek : # Closes 9/27. 49 $19 single Flush ❂❂❂ ❂at lodge ✔✔ Upper Stony : # Closes 9/27. 18 $15 Vault ❂❂❂ ❂at lodge ✔✔ Horse Camp: No water. Open until snow. 5+ Vault ✔ Buck Rock: No water. Open until snow. 11 Vault Big Meadow: No water. Open until snow. 40 Vault by trailhead ✔✔ & SEQUOIA NATIONAL FOREST / GIANT SEQUOIA NATIONAL MONUMENT FALL 2009 11

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Kings Canyon n e C Campground yo Gr izzly e L n Cedar Grove e Road closes l Lodge Sce yway Falls k nic B e here in winter Boyden Visitor Center t Grizzly o Cavern Falls & Village H Closed in Picnic Area Fork South 4635ft Winter Hume 1412m Roads Princess Kin River End Converse Lake Sandy gs CED AR GRO VE Lodging Basin Grove Cove Sheep Creek AREA Sentinel N GIANT SEQUOIA Y O Horses/riding Powdercan Canyon N A View RoCar ing Cherry NA TIONAL MONUMENT T H E K I N G S River Gas station R Gap Moraine o Falls Landslide a r i (Sequoia National For est) n g Tenmile Crystal R i Major paved road v B Springs o e u r l GENERAL Grant Grove d e GRANT Village & Kings r Minor paved road GRO VE Canyon Visitor Center Horse Columbine 6589ft / 2008m Corral

Unpaved road Sunset GRANT GRO VE C Azalea Roads close Big Meadows DELAYS & ROUGH, r here in e ek AREA e KINGS e k r winter UNPAVEDC SURFACES The Wye Kings Canyon Park boundary Overlook Horse POSSIBLE THROUGHOUT 180 G Camp en CANYON e AUTUMN ON GENERALS Bi g Stump Quail ra Entrance ls Flat Weaver f Big Meadows Road Ha IGHWAY BETWEEN Lak e lo STEEP ROADS: r (closed in winter) a NA g TIONAL SuWOLVERTON ROAD &

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Kings Canyon n e C yo Gr izzly e reduce speed. o L n n Cedar Grove e Road closes l Lodge S y k R ce ywa Falls nic B e here in winter Be oyden Grizzly Visitor Center t d o Cw avern Stony Creek Village DRIVING TIME Falls & Village H Closed in o Fork k Delays shorter than 1 hour o e South re 4635ft

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C A A R Vier w Lodgepole - 1 hour. S L P RoCar ing K G A e Cherry NA TIONAL MOINNUN MEL NT v T H G S River QUOIA NATI

K O o E K I N R E ON I Dorst l Lodgepole S

AT A 1-hour delays maALy occur daily N C Moraine o P Visalia - 1G ahp our. N O Falls AR Big Bir d I Creek Visitor Center a K Landslide T A 6720ft r Lak e N 8ai m-6pm, with traffic passing & Village n Mineral King - 1-1/2 (Sequoia National FA or est) 2048m OI 6720ft g EQU Wuksachi hour. Road closed S 2048m both Tokdoiprahections on the hour. Tenmile Village R Crystal er Falls v i i v B R Nov 1 to late May. e Springs o u If 1r /2-hour delays are l Halstead GENERAL Grant Grove Giant Forest detail map d FROM GIANT FOREST TO e r y a GRANT Village & Kings h w required, traffic passes both a h Heather LODGEPOLE & e g Moose GRO VGE rant Grove C- a1n yhono Vuisri.tor w i Lak e a H Wolverton directions on theL ahk eour and Center Crystal Cave GIANT FOREST K

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CSeundseat r Grove - 1 hour. NATIONAL General C GRANT GRO VE G Azalea Roads close Big Meadows an FOREST r k Sherm Signs will be posted. Get here in e e ek Road closedA RmEiAd- e e KINGTree S r r e winter k r e C C v information at entrance Nov to lTahet Wey eApril. Kings Canyon i SIERRA R395 Giant Forest Museum GIANT NATOIveOrlNooAk L Horse stations & visitor centers. Fresno - 1-1/2 hours. Camp 6409ft FOREST KINGS a 180 FOGREST 1954m Crescent en cc CAAuNto YON Yosemite south entry e CANYON h u Meadow

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r NATIONAL e k k 5,000 to 9,000 feet. e 216 e e FOREST re S CANYO k C ING N N N K ATI Summer: Warm days & O K ON Y R A Silver City N A K Foothills Visitor Center L cool nights. Winter: deep A P R PA Resort C A Park Headquarters R S L P r K snow, cold days. G A e 1700ft IN N L v QUOIA NATI Atwell Grove

K O o E ON I Dorst l Lodgepole S AT A 518m AL Mineral King

N N C PA Big Bir d IO Creek Visitor Center RK Visitor Center Foothills zone - AT N 6720ft Lak e 2048m r & Village 7504ft 1,500 to 5,000 feet. IA ve 2287m UO i Wuksachi 6720ft Road closes Atwell Mill SEQ R Tokopah Mild, wet winters; hot, Village 2048m here in Three Rivers er Falls iv winter MrINERAL KING Cold dry summers. Cedar 857ft R ve Eas Ri 261m t AREA Springs Grove is cooler than the h Halstead a Fo Lookout P oint ah e y r we foothills, but hotter than a k Entrance Ka w h w a a h Heather Grant Grove. K 198 LODGEPOLE & e g Moose w i Lak e a H Wolverton Lak e Crystal Cave GIANT FOREST K

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NATIONAL Pinewood e General FALL 200G 9 n Postage & Fees Paid FOREST k Sherma e e Tree r r U.S. Department of the Interior G-83 e C SEQUOIA & KINGS CANYON v i SIERRA R395 Giant FoNresAt MTuIsOeuNm AL PARKGIS ANT NATIONAL 6409ft FOREST KINGS a FOREST 1954m Crescent cc 47050 Generals HAiugto hway CANYON h u Meadow

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h 245 t 2820ft r

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198 INYO Ash Mountain Entrance NATIONAL 216 FOREST EXPERIENCE YOUR AMERICA! Foothills Visitor Center Silver City Park Headquarters Resort 1700ft Atwell Grove 518m Mineral King Visitor Center 7504ft er iv Atwell Mill 2287m R Road closes Three Rivers here in winter MrINERAL KING Cold 857ft ve Eas Ri 261m t AREA Springs h a Fo Lookout P oint ah e r we w k Entrance Ka a K 198