NATIONAL SEQUOIA & KINGS CANYON PARKS & SEQUOIA NATIONAL FORES T/ GIANT SEQUOIA NATIONAL MONUMENT WINTER GUIDE 2010-11

Park Activities • page 3 page 8 • Facilities & Programs in Sequoia Road Limits / Safety / Finding Gasoline • page 5 page 9 • Facilities & Programs in Kings Canyon & USFS Highlights in Sequoia Park • page 6 page 10 • Camping & Lodging / Bears & Your Food Highlights in Kings Canyon & USFS • page 7 page 12 • Traffic Delays / Park Map Winter welcome Many people see the cold winter face will refresh your spirit while your legs of these parks and shiver at the thought get pleasantly tired. Not enough snow? of a visit. Those who come anyway fig - Take a hike! ure out the secret: Winter welcomes us Stay safe on the trails, too. Carry a with some of the greatest beauty, mys - map and tell someone where you are tery, tranquility, challenge, and just plain going. Follow a road that’s closed to fun these parks can offer. vehicles, or learn how to spot and fol - Enjoying the parks in winter may not low the ski-trail signs on the trees. Get be as easy as a summer visit: You may back before winter’s early sunset. need to “chain up.” In fact, if you are in Didn't bring a sled, snowshoes, or the park now and want to see sequoias skis? You can rent or buy them at Grant but don't have tire chains in the car, Grove Market and Wuksachi Lodge. check the weather forecast and think Visitor-center staff can help you again. The suddenness and unpre - make sure you have what you need for dictability of Sierran weather, plus gen - your particular winter adventure. Step uine concern for your safety, make the into the centers at Grant Grove or rangers err on the side of caution when Lodgepole (Giant Forest Museum is deciding to require chains. But if you've closed this winter) and check out the got chains, layers of warm clothes, and exhibits while you’re there. When you you're willing to take the roads slowly, head outside again, you'll know and then the delights of winter await you! appreciate the natural scene around If there’s enough snow and you enjoy you even more. social fun, head to one of the bustling If you’ve had enough of cold, the snowplay areas (see pages 8 and 9). Snow highlights the sequoias’ red bark and black fire scars. snow-free foothills are in their glory Take your fun seriously, though, and ©C. Purchis. now. Green grass coats the hills that play safe. People get hurt snowplaying were bone dry and brown just a few every year. Some of the injuries are devastating; don't let one hap - months ago. Flowers pop up by late January. Birds not seen here in pen to you! Rangers may close all or part of the snowplay hills if summer flash through oak and chaparral. Slanted and soft, winter they get extremely icy, but only you can prevent accidents. sunlight highlights the landscape’s details. Take advantage of the Want to be active but not in a crowd? When the snow is deep lower-elevation trails now; they’ll be very hot by summer! enough, snowshoe or cross-country ski into the wintry heart of a So welcome to winter in the Sierra. We’re glad you didn’t let the sequoia grove; it’s like nothing else you’ve ever tried. Whether you cold keep you away. Just remain flexible and let the weather call the find misty fog or bright sunshine, the peace and clean, clear beauty shots; winter fun unmarred by accidents make the best memories. WELCOME to SEQUOIA & KINGS CANYON

Land of giants... and more WELCOME You expect giant trees and huge canyons—and you You may borrow the park map & guide in Braille at visitor centers. won’t be disappointed. Yet the whole of these parks is even greater than the sum of its famous parts. BIENVENUE Rising from 1300’ to 14,494’ (the highest elevation in Une guide officielle est dis pon ible the lower 48 states), these parks protect a spectacular ele - dans les centres d’information. vational range. This span from low to high means dramatic shifts from warm foothills to cool forests to the cold High BIENVENIDOS Sierra. It means diverse plants and animals living in Hay un folleto en Español extremely varied conditions. It means steep roads and trails disponible en los centros de visita. that climb mountains, and cold rivers that plunge down from their heights. WILKOMMEN The caretakers of this landscape are also diverse. A Eine Landkarte ist auch in national monument, which is part of a national forest, bor - deutscher sprache im Besucher- ders these two national parks. The U.S. Geological Survey zentrum erhaltlich. conducts research here. The Sequoia Natural History BENVENUTI Association runs bookstores at visitor centers and con - La traduzione in lingua Italiana tributes to education and research. The Sequoia Parks della mappa e’ disponibile in tutti Foundation supports important park projects. i centri di informazioni. Other partners, public and private, cooperate with the Park Service to meet a challenging mission—providing for public enjoyment while keeping the parks unimpaired for PARK, FOREST, future generations. You are an important partner, too! Experience these parks, learn all you can, and help to pre - OR MONUMENT? PHONE NUMBERS serve them. Thank you! What is the difference between EMERGENCY — DIAL 911 Sequoia and Kings Canyon No coins needed. National Parks, Sequoia National Forest, and Giant Sequoia 24-Hour Park Information National Monument? 1-559-565-3341 (NPS) Each is on federal land. Each www.nps.gov/seki exists to benefit society. Yet each Na tional Forest Information has a different history and pur - 1-559-338-2251 (USFS) YOUR FEES HELP YOUR PARKS! Most of your entrance and camping fees stay right here. pose. Together they provide a wide www.fs.fed.us/r5/sequoia spectrum of uses. Yosemite Information (NPS) The parks invest them in projects that improve visitor facili - National parks strive to keep 1-209-372-0200 ties and protect park resources. Fees have paid for repairing landscapes unimpaired www.nps.gov/yose and upgrading roads, campgrounds, trails, picnic areas, for future generations. California Road Conditions and restrooms. They have also improved visitor centers, They protect natural 1-800-427-7623 (Caltrans) updated exhibits, and modernized slide programs offered and historic features by rangers! while offering light-on- Partners in the Parks the-land recreation. The following organizations work ENTRANCE FEE OPTIONS Park rangers work for together to provide this guide, first the National Park Service, published in 1974 as the Sequoia Bark. • 7-day pass for Sequoia & Kings Canyon and for Hume Lake part of the Department of It is published by the Sequoia Natural District of Sequoia Na tional Forest/Giant Sequoia National the Interior. His tory As so ciation (SNHA) and National forests, managed under printed by Willems Commercial Monument (GSNM) : $20 per vehicle (private, non-commercial) Printing, Inc. or $10 per person on foot, bicycle, motorcycle, or bus. a “multiple use” concept, provide services and commodities that National Park Service (NPS) • 12- Month Pass for Sequoia & Kings Canyon and for Hume may include lumber, cattle grazing, Malinee Crapsey, Editor minerals, as well as 1-559-565-3341 Lake District of Sequoia Na tional Forest/GSNM : $30 admits recreation with and www.nps.gov/seki all passengers in a private vehicle for one year from month of without vehicles. Sequoia Natural History purchase. Not valid at Crystal Cave. Forest rangers work Association (SNHA) for the U.S. Forest 1- 559-565-3759 • 12-Month: America the Beautiful Interagency Annual Pass : Service, an agency www.sequoia hist ory. org $80. Valid for entrance fees at Federal recreation sites including in the Department Sequoia Parks Foundation National Parks, National Forests, FWS, BLM, & Bureau of of Agriculture. 1-559-739-1668 Reclamation. Admits all passengers in a single private non-com - Both agencies manage wilder - www.sequoiaparksfoundation. org mercial vehicle where per-vehicle fees are charged, or the passh - ness and other areas where they U.S. Forest Service (FS) older plus up to 3 persons (age 16 & older) for per-person fee maximize protection of natural 1- 559-784-1500 areas, for 12 months. Not valid at Crystal Cave. resources. For example, part of www.fs.fed.us/r5/sequoia Sequoia National Forest has been Delaware North Companies designated Giant Sequoia National Parks & Resorts (DNCPR) • Seniors: America the Beautiful Interagency Pass : $10 one- Monument to emphasize protec - 1-888-252-5757 time fee buys a lifetime pass for entrance fees for U.S. citizens & tion of sequoias. www.visitsequoia.com permanent residents 62 or over. (Previously issued Golden Age Parks, forests, and monuments Kings Canyon Park Services (KCPS) passes remain valid.) Not valid at Crystal Cave. may have 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 entrance station or visitor center. (Previously issued Golden names, we get a wide range of ben - efits from these diverse areas. Page 1 illustrations ©SNHA by Rick Wheeler Access passes remain valid.) Not valid at Crystal Cave. 2 WINTER 2010-11 SEQUOIA & KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS Our park partners Two non-profit park partners The Sequoia Parks Founda- can help you to help the parks, tion raises funds for projects and everyone benefits: that enhance these parks. Be Activities Become a member of the part of their efforts! Sequoia Natural History Beetle Rock Center in the Association (SNHA) and get Giant Forest would not exist discounts in park book stores without the help of the Found- FREE W ALKS & TALKS : Ranger-led talks and walks may and on activities including ation. They funded remodel of be offered at Giant Forest, Lodgepole, Grant Grove, or seminars, the winter Pear Lake the historic building into an edu - the Foothills. Watch for snowshoe walks once the snow Ski Hut, and the summer tours cation center. Together with the flies. Check bulletin boards and visitor centers for in Crystal Cave. Join at any SNHA, they made use of this details and schedules. visitor center or go online at facility possible for us all. www.sequoiahistory.org. The Foundation also raises VISITOR CENTERS & STORES: Each one offers different exhibits to enjoy. Park stores funds for trailwork and for the in each visitor center sell a wide variety of books, maps, Rangers in the Classroom pro - postcards, posters, and other items. Remember: All your gram. In addition, it has started purchases in visitor centers help to support the parks! an initiative to explore these See pages 8-9 for details. fabulous parks through art. Ask for information at a visitor cen - JUNIOR RANGER PROGRAM ter, or go to www.sequoiaparks - FREE for all ages. If you are 5 to 105 years old, you foundation.org to learn how can become a Sequoia & Kings Canyon Junior Ranger! you can help advance your inter - To earn your badge, pick ests in these parks. up a free booklet at any visitor center and complete the activities for your age Pear Lake Ski Hut , operated by group. Have fun learning! the SNHA, sits in a granite basin high above Lodgepole. At 9,200 TEACHERS - B RING YOUR feet elevation (2804m), it is sur - CLASS TO THE PARKS ! Fun, rounded by glistening snowfields, curriculum-based programs icy rock walls, and a deep blue sky. nd rd th Six strenuous miles on skis or for 2 , 3 , and 4 grades snowshoes get you to its ten offered in spring and fall. bunkbeds and warm wood-pellet Topics include life cycle and stove. It’s a great opportunity to adaptations of sequoias, experience the winter glory of the Recent contributions have helped species interdependence, High Sierra. Call 559-565-3759 to improve and repair several and cultural history of the (reservations are required) and popular trails, including increased Kaweah River drainage. check the website above for win - accessibility at Zumwalt Meadow ter travel seminars with the SNHA. with an extended boardwalk. For details or to reserve a date: 1-559-565-4303.

• GO PICNICKING - See picnic quired for ages 16 & up. Ask for WHERE CAN I... symbols on back-page map. Due cop ies of park reg u la tions. to bears, never leave food unat - • RIDE BICYCLES - In the Parks : tended! Most sites have tables, Your visit may include both • HUNT - Not in the Parks . Visitors Keep bikes on roads only, not on restrooms and fire grills, except: any trail (other than the a National Park (NPS) and are responsible for understanding No fire grills at Foothills and Sandy a National Forest (USFS). and complying with all applicable designated bike trail in Cedar Cove. No fires permitted at Lodge- Grove). In the National Forest : Activities that are illegal state, local, and federal firearms pole & Crescent Meadow. No water in the Park may be legal in Ask a ranger which trails permit laws before entering this park. In at Halstead, Powdercan, Lodge- the Forest (see page 2 for the National Forest : Only during bicycles. In both areas : Be care - details). Know which area pole, and Crescent Meadow. Area ful & courteous near ped es trians & the season with a license: across from Foothills Visitor Center you are in (see page 12)! 1-559-243-4005. horses. People younger than 18 may be closed intermittently. must wear helmets. • GO CAMPING - In the Parks : • SNOWMOBILE Not in the • WALK A PET - In the Parks : Only in numbered sites in desig - Not on any trails but it’s o.k 100 Parks. In National Forest : Only nated campgrounds. In the feet from roads in developed areas on designated snowmobile routes. • RIDE HORSEBACK National For est : In campgrounds (picnic areas, campgrounds, roads). Snowmobile trailheads at Cherry Closed for the season. or, unless posted otherwise, near In the National Forest : Pets can Gap, Big Meadows, & Quail Flat. Spring opening dates roadsides. Pull safely off the road, go on trails. In both areas : Pets For information: 1-559-338-2251. depend on weather. Rides, no further. backcountry spot trips, or must be on a leash less than 6 feet • HAVE A FIRE In the Parks : • DRIVE OHV S OFF-ROAD - guided trips. (1.8m) long. Never leave pets in Only in fire grills in campgrounds • Cedar Grove cars when it’s warm as they over - Not in the parks . Stay on roads. & some picnic areas. In National In the National For est : Off-high - 1-559-565-3464 summer heat quickly. Forest : Free fire permits required, 1-559-337-2314 off season way-vehicle (OHV) routes available. even for gas stoves and lanterns. • Grant Grove • COLLECT THINGS TO TAKE Get specific information at USFS - Not in Parks : Leave Some areas are more restricted 1-559-335-9292 summer HOME Hume Lake office (in Dunlap on things where you find them to play than others. Get permits at Kings 1-559-799-7247 off season Hwy 180) or Kings Canyon Visitor their natural role in the ecosystem. Canyon Park Visitor Center (in • Horse Corral Center (Grant Grove). In the National Forest : Keeping Grant Grove) or USFS office in at Big Meadows in • CUT WOOD - Not in the Parks . Dunlap on Hwy 180. Sequoia National Forest a few cones or rocks for personal 1-559-565-3404 summer use is permitted. In both areas : In the National Forest : Call • GO FISHING - In both areas : Hume Lake Ranger District for per - 1-559-564-6429 off season Archeo logical sites and artifacts Permitted during fishing season. 1-559-679-3573 cell are protected by law. mit and guidelines: 559-338-2251. Cal ifornia fishing licenses are re -

& SEQUOIA NATIONAL FOREST / GIANT SEQUOIA NATIONAL MONUMENT WINTER 2010-11 3 WILDERNESS Change: Natural & unnatural OVERNIGHTS A permit is required for all over- night wilderness trips into these We often think of parks as outdoor museums. Caretaking a living ecosystem, parks. Between late May and late however, is very different than protecting unchanging objects. September (the quota season), each park trail has a daily entry quota for Both natural features and human facilities may be different each time you visit Both are changing all overnight trips and a wilderness the time. How we take care of those features and facilities may also affect your visit. You won’t notice camping fee of $15 is required. The the ozone monitor that works 24 hours a day, but you will see other activities such as revegetation, road quota and fee are tools to help pro - work, painting, or trail maintenance. Some activities may unavoidably affect you, such as smoke from a tect your wilderness environment prescribed fire, campsite closures due to revegetation, or bear management. and experience (they are not requir- ed for day hikes, or for overnight The park staff uses such actions as tools to maintain the landscape and protect its inhabitants and trips in the adjacent US Forest Ser- visitors. Your visit gives you but a snapshot of this process; Nature decides the timing of many of these vice Monarch and Jennie Lakes actions. They all share one goal: preservation of these parks for us all, now and in the future. wildernesses, but a free fire permit is required for any open flame on USFS land). Outside the quota season, permits Fire: A natural change are still required, but are on a self- Years ago, we tried to banish fire from the land - issue basis. Get self-Issue permits at scape, believing it was destructive. In sequoia groves, the station nearest your trailhead (see pages 8 & 9). No quota or fee that meant putting out lightning-caused fires that applies at this time of year. Trail con - naturally start as frequently as every 5 to 15 years. dition information is limited; be care - As time passed, we saw unanticipated conse - ful and expect winter conditions. quences from this. Fire suppression blocked important Requests to reserve a permit for a ecological processes and caused many problems. Two certain date within the quota season are accepted beginning March 1 and problems were glaring: at least 2 weeks before your trip's First, sequoias were not reproducing. We learned start date. that fires create the conditions that sequoias need to Permits must be picked up either regenerate: Fires leave behind a seedbed fertilized the afternoon before, starting at with ash and they open the forest canopy, allowing 1pm, or by 9am on the day of depar - sunlight to reach the seedlings. ture at the park permit station/visitor center nearest your trailhead. If Second, the amount of dead wood and dense delayed, call the Wilderness Office or growth of small white-fir trees increased tremendous - you may lose the permit. ly. Natural fires used to burn these away frequently. If the quota for your preferred Now, after fire’s long absence, these fuels feed bigger, trail is full, you can choose another hotter blazes that are more dangerous for people, trail for that day or another day to start, if space is available. Permits are plants, and wildlife. not issued after mid-afternoon as For over 40 years at Sequoia and Kings Canyon, minimum distances must be reached we have studied fire and its effects on the land. Now, before you camp. to protect human safety and benefit giant sequoia Camping in the park's "frontcoun - trees, the National Park Service works with fire to try" is permitted only in camp - restore the benefits it brings. grounds. Camping or sleeping in vehicles is not allowed in parking We still put out fires that threaten life and property lots, pull-outs, picnic areas, or trail - but, when and where it’s appropriate, we may ignite heads in the park. prescribed fires or allow lightning fires to spread natu - Wilderness Permit Reservations rally, reducing fuels and improving resource condi - Sequoia & Kings Canyon N.P. Fire in the Sierra usually hugs the ground. Its tions. Strong evidence shows that we are succeeding. 47050 Generals Highway #60 Why is this important? The National Park System Three Rivers, CA 93271 low flames clear dangerous built-up fuels. With- 1-559-565-3766; Fax 565-4239 out it, these fuels would feed intense, hard- to- exists to conserve resources “unimpaired for the control wildfires. The natural burn pattern enjoyment of future generations.” We once thought For more details, visit Wilderness that aggressive fire suppression met this goal. A more Information at www.nps.gov/seki/ includes occa sion al hot spots. These leave planyourvisit/wilderness.htm or call. important openings in the forest — the sunny, complete understanding of fire tells us that excluding bare places where sequoia trees regenerate best. this important natural agent of change only hurts what we are trying to protect. HIGH SIERRA LODGE ©NPS Photo • BEARPAW HIGH SIERRA CAMP Unnatural change: Alien invaders! (DNCPR) See page 8 for details Plants and animals evolve together in Two immediate threats: communities over time. Often they keep Star thistle is one of the most damaging each other in check. When species get non-natives in the state. Dense, thorny brought in from other places, the newcom - patches completely exclude native plants ers may multiply wildly since the competi - and limit wildlife movements. It is not yet tors, predators, and diseases they evolved established here! If you recognize it from with in their home communities are not your home or travels, make sure not to here. They break links in the local web of bring it in. life, badly disrupting species that depend on each other. Sometimes they completely New Zealand Mud Snails completely replace native plants and animals. take over and change waterways that they Practice alien hygiene! Look for seeds invade. Due to their biology, just one snail NEW and tiny animals attached to shoes, clothes, can start a huge population! They stick on ZEALAND waders, equipment, tires, and pet fur. gear; check boots & waders thoroughly for MUD Wash mud from under cars and on tires this tiny invader. Common just east of the SNAIL before coming into the parks. STAR THISTLE parks, they could easily be carried into the The natives will thank you! High Sierra. 4 WINTER 2010-11 SEQUOIA & KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR SAFETY! RATTLESNAKES , found in much CELL PHONES rarely work well in of these parks, are especially com - these mountains; don’t rely on Natural areas present hazards. Rocks roll, trees topple, and mon in the foothills and near water. them. Note where pay telephones limbs drop without warning. Icy or uneven ground, wild animals, and Watch where you put your hands are available (see pages 8 & 9). changing weather pose dangers. People may create other hazards and feet! Do not harass or kill them; through campfires, traffic, snowplay, and poor decisions. COUGARS roam throughout the this is when most bites occur. Bites Water is the main cause of death here. Many drowning victims parks, but you are unlikely to see are rarely lethal, were walking or climbing near rivers and unexpectedly fell in. one. Attacks are rare, but be aware. but tissue dam - The Park Service works to reduce risks, but your safety is in your Watch children closely; never let age can be own hands. Keep alert. Read warnings and ask a ranger for advice. them run ahead. Cautiously severe. If bit - move away if you find a par - ten, avoid tially buried animal carcass. panic; call a If you see a cougar, the goal is ranger or 911. to convince it that you are not prey: LIGHTNING :See dark • Don’t run; it may trigger pursuit. clouds or lightning or hear thunder? • Try to appear as large as possi - Be Safe! Get inside a large build ing or a vehi - ble. Don’t crouch or try to hide. cle (not convertible), if possible. Do • Hold your ground or back away not stand under trees or in shallow slowly while facing the cougar. caves. Avoid projecting above the • Pick up children. surrounding landscape such as • If the mountain lion acts ag gres - DROWNING : The #1 cause of TICKS : Common in foot hill and standing on a ridge, on Moro Rock, sively, wave your hands, shout, death in national parks! Be extra Kings Canyon grasses; check your - or in open mea dows. Stay away and throw stones or sticks at it. careful around water; falling in is as self after a walk. Their bite from open water, wire fences, and • If attacked, fight back! dangerous as swimming. Once in a is painless, but a small per - metal railings, which can carry light - • Report any cougar sightings. ning from a distance. river, getting out can be nearly centage carry Lyme disease. BE SAFE : Avoid going alone. Tell impossible: Rocks are smooth and Remove them carefully with WEST NILE VIRUS is passed by someone your plans and return slippery; swift, cold water rapidly tweezers; seek a doctor’s advice. bites from infected mosquitos. time. Watch and listen for potential saps your strength. Currents are GIARDIA in lakes and streams can Human illness is not common, but hazards above you, around you, and always stronger than they appear. cause intestinal upset. Iodine and take steps to avoid mosquito bites. on the ground. Beware of trails and sidewalks slippery with ice or leaves. PLAGUE : Please do not feed or other chemicals may not be as reli - CARBON MONOXIDE : This odor - Slow down to safely share roads touch ANY park animals. Fleas on able as heat in killing bac teria and less, colorless gas can be fatal. and trails with people and wildlife. rodents can carry plague. Deer mice Giardia, but can be effective if used Never burn charcoal in closed feces can carry hantavirus. properly. Boil drinking water at least spaces, e.g. a tent, camper, or RV. SAFE DRINKING WATER : The 3 minutes. 13 park water systems are tested to POISON OAK : This OZONE POLLUTION : See air-quali - ensure that they meet federal and common shrub grows up HYPOTHERMIA : This life-threaten - ty forecasts in visitor centers. Most state standards. Annual Consumer to 5000 feet eleva - ing condition can occur year-round. ozone rises into the Sierra on warm Con fidence Reports are available at tion: Red leaves Stay dry; snack often. If others don’t winds. Levels of this colorless gas visitor centers. with whitish berries respond to the need for warmer are highest May to October, peaking in fall, bare in win - clothes or are stumbling, forgetful, in late afternoon. The peaks some - OPERATION NO-GROW ter; shiny green or extremely tired and drowsy, get times reach “unhealthy” state/feder - Prevent illegal marijuana growing! leaves in groups of three in spring. If warm sugary drinks into them al. standards, and can affect respira - Keep parks safe, natural, and free you touch any part of the plant, immediately. Get them into dry tory systems. Ozone forms from from illegal activities! Report suspi - wash skin and clothes right away. clothing, sleeping bags, and shelter. gases in car and factory exhaust. cious activities: 1-888-NPS-CRIME.

SNOWPLOWS RULE may last for hours or weeks. Rules of park roads Plows may operate day & night, • Highway 180 to Cedar Grove moving with or against traffic. is closed mid-November until EXPECT TRAFFIC DELAYS 24-hour recorded information If you see one, watch for signals mid-April due to rockfall. on the Generals Highway 1-559-565-3341 (press 1, then 4). from the plow operator. Slow • Redwood Mountain Road is south of Giant Forest. Details Motorcyclists: Avoid oil buildup down but do not stop. unpaved and unplowed. on page 12. in center of lanes. • Panoramic Point Road closes FINDING GASOLINE with first snow. No trailers or 22’ VEHICLE LENGTH LIMIT ALWAYS CARRY CHAINS No gas stations lie within the motorhomes. on Generals Hwy between that fit your tires and comply park. Fill up in nearby Three • Big Meadows , Converse Basin Hospital Rock Picnic Area and with signs to use them. Buy or Rivers, Clingan’s Junction, or the (USFS): All are partially unpaved Giant Forest Museum due to rent chains outside the parks. National Forest’s Hume Lake and close with snow. single-lane road. Between Pot- Snow tires are often required; (1-559-335-2000) 24 hours with IN SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK – wisha Campground and Hospital most cars have them. Check the credit card: 11 miles (18 km) • Crystal Cave Road closes late Rock, advised maximum vehicle side of the tire for M/S, M+S, north of Grant Grove via Hwy October to mid-May. length is 22 feet (6.7m). Maxi- or a snowflake symbol. 180. Grant Grove Market sells • Mineral King Road reopens mum limit on other parts of the cans of emerg ency gas. Gen er als Highway is 40 feet (12 EMERGENCY CAR REPAIRS 5/27/11 (snowmelt permitting). m) for single vehicles, 50 feet For a tow: 1-559-565-3341 then BICYCLES •Moro Rock/Crescent Meadow (15 m) for veh i cl e + towed unit. press zero (24 hours). Ride only on roads (not trails), Road closes with first snows; Alter natives: Hwy 180 from In Sequoia Park only, AAA is single file, with traffic. Wear reopens with spring melt. No available for out-of-gas, lock Fresno is straighter, less steep, light colors after dark. People drinking water along this road. outs, minor repairs, jump starts : under 18 must wear a helmet. and wid er. If towing a car, camp 1-559- 565-4070 (24 hours). • South Fork Road is partially in the foothills and use the car. WINTER ROAD CLOSURES unpaved. Slippery when wet. GET SNOW OFF CAR ROOFS IN KINGS CANYON PARK & • Road to Middle Fork Trail is EXPECT ICY, SLICK ROADS It may slide onto the windshield unpaved; slippery when wet. SLOW DOWN . Sudden speed or NATIONAL FOREST /M ONUMENT – and block the driver’s vision. • Generals Highway (the main Road closes for winter; park at stopping causes skids. Allow 6 Hospital Rock Picnic Area. seconds of stopping distance DON’T LOSE YOUR BRAKES park road) closes for plowing between cars. Check antifreeze, Always down shift going down - from Wuksachi to junction with LET OTHERS PASS battery, wipers, chains and road hill. In automatic cars, put the Hwy 180 during & after storms. Slow vehicles must use paved conditions before you come: gear shift on 1, 2 or L. Depending on snowfall, closure turnouts to pull over. & SEQUOIA NATIONAL FOREST / GIANT SEQUOIA NATIONAL MONUMENT WINTER 2010-11 5 THE FOOTHILLS MIDDLE FORK : Leading through GRANT GROVE NEARBY VIEWPOINTS marked winter routes, including a chapparal to highcountry, the ski trail to the Chicago Stump at The lower elevations offer wonderful OVERLOOKS & VIEWS: For a first miles offer views of Moro The only plowed trail is the the edge of Converse Basin grove. winter visits -- green and usually view of the High Sierra, drive to Rock and Cas tle Rocks. Park at Grant Tree loop. Beware of Virtually every mature sequoia in snowless! The foothills house more Kings Canyon Overlook , about Hospital Rock. Walk toward slipping on ice on the path! this huge grove was felled early in biological diversity (different kinds of 6 miles (9.5 km) south of Grant Buckeye Flat Camp ground but Rent skis or snowshoes at the the 1900s. The stump is a remnant plants and animals) than the conifer Grove on the Generals Highway. forests and High Sierra combined. turn left on the dirt road before Highlights Grant Grove Market. Buy a ski of a tree taken to exhibit at the Flowers appear in January. Ticks ap - the campground. Go 1.3 miles (2 trail map and follow the colored For a look out over the Kings 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. km) to a parking area. Panther markers on trees. See pages 8-9 Canyon, drive the Hume Lake pear in December; watch out for South of Grant Grove on the Creek Falls is 3 miles (5 km) be - for details on snowplay areas. Road, 8 miles (13 km) north of them and poison oak (see page 5). Generals Highway are two trail - yond that. Use caution at stream Grant Grove on Hwy 180. HOSPITAL ROCK PICNIC AREA: KINGS CANYON PARK heads with restrooms: crossings. About 6 miles (9.5 km) south of Western Mono people once lived EXPLORING IN WINTER VISITOR CENTER: Explore the (6 miles/9.6km Grant Grove, across the Generals • Quail Flat here; ex hibits offer insight into SOUTH FORK exhibits and see the film about this south of Hwy 180) has 23 miles Highway from the Quail Flat junc - their life style. A trail built by the These trails start at tiny South BE SAFE : Review all safety advice on page 5. Carry a map, warm clothes, park. (37km) of trails and snowmobile tion, Redwood Canyon Over- Civilian Conservation Corps leads Fork Campground (closed for and water. Orient yourself before heading out and tell someone where you TALKS & SNOWSHOE WALKS: routes. Some connect to Big look faces west over one of the to a cascade; 1/4-mile round-trip. winter), at the end of a 13-mile are going. You are on your own in the winter woods. Check local schedules to see if a Meadows. world’s largest sequoia groves. Careful! People often drown here. road that leaves Hwy 198 at the ranger-led walk is taking place. west end of Three Rivers. This TRAVEL ON SNOW : There is plenty to see from wintry roadsides, but Early studies in this grove revealed • Big Meadows (8 miles/13km MARBLE FALLS: This trail climbs Showshoes are loaned for free! partly unpaved road can be very try skis or snowshoes. It’s a great way to enjoy the snowy forest. You don’t the strong positive relationship be - south of Hwy 180) offers 23 miles 3.9 miles (6 km) through chaparral slippery when wet. need to go far or fast. GENERAL GRANT TREE: The tween fire and sequoia reproduc - (37km) of marked, groomed trails to a lovely waterfall. Park across only trail in the area that is plowed tion. and routes that traverse meadows the main road from Potwisha LADYBUG : Hike along the South WALKERS & SNOWSHOERS : Don’t walk in ski tracks. Your foot - in winter. General Grant is one of and forest. One route goes to the Campground (no non-camper Fork of the Kaweah River in the prints harden and catch ski tips, making it dangerous for skiers. the world’s largest living trees. USFS NATIONAL 1916 Buck Rock Fire Lookout (the parking in the campground). From upper foot hills (moderately Visit historic Gamlin Cabin and the tower is closed in winter). the trailhead near site #14, follow steep). From the campground, VISIT THE SNOW FOREST: Conical-shaped trees evolved to catch Fallen Monarch along this 1/3-mile FOREST the dirt road across the concrete cross the river via footbridge. The less snow, minimizing the amount that weighs them down. Flexible (.5 km) paved trail. A guide is sold Explore Giant Sequoia National THE FLOOR OF ditch. The trail starts on the right. trail ends 3 miles (5 km) up branches bend to dump what snow has piled up when it gets too heavy. at the visitor center. North and Mon ument, a part of Se qu oia at one of the lowest-elevation Conifer needles are tough and slippery, so snow tends to slide off easily. THE KINGS PARADISE CREEK : Park at Hospital west of the visitor center 1 mile National For est (see page 2 for sequoia groves. CANYON Rock and walk to Buck-eye Flat WATCH FOR SIGNS OF WILDLIFE : Deer, cougars, bobcats, (1.6 km). See 85th Annual below. details). Check page 5 for road CANYON Camp ground. Follow the footpath GARFIELD : A steep 5-mile (8.3 martens, weasels, coyotes, and Douglas squirrels (called chickarees) may be PANORAMIC POINT ROAD: closures. Highway 180 down into the across from site #26 and c ross the km) one-way climb to Garfield active all year. Bears may stay active, so continue to store food properly (see Once snow flies this becomes a ski Three USFS trailheads offer canyon closes in winter due to footbridge over the Middle Fork. The seq uoia grove. Start on the south page 10). Winter birds greet you from the trees: ravens, juncos, chickadees, or snowshoe trail to a spectacular snowplay, cross-country ski trails, rock falling from the canyon trail then fol l ows Paradise Creek, not side of the river in the camp - red-breasted nuthatches, brown creepers, and white-headed woodpeckers, vista of the High Sierra. Park at and snowmobile routes. Rent walls onto the road. You can get the Middle Fork, for 1-1/2 miles (1.6 ground. to name a few. Look for the sweep of wings in the snow where an owl caught Grant Village, go east through the skis, snowshoes, or buy snowplay a good view out over the canyon km) before grow ing faint. a rodent for dinner. visitor center parking lot, left equipment at Grant Grove or between Hume Lake Road junc - around the meadow, then right Montecito Lake Resort (see page tion on Hwy 180 and Hume at the sign “Panoramic Point 2.3 9 for details). Ask for information Lake. The road reopens mid- SNOWPLAY AREAS miles (3.7 km).” It’s 1/4 mile and a map at Kings Canyon Visi - April; return then if you can to IN SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK (.4 km) up to the viewpoint. The tor Center: enjoy one of our nation’s deep - Every year we see very serious injuries. BE SAFE & CONSIDERATE: 4-mile (6.4 km) round-trip Park • Cherry Gap is on Highway 180 est gorges. See page 9 “In the tacular view of the Great Western Safety tips: Use devices that are steerable. Don’t sled or ski into roads. Steer GIANT FOREST open, the lower parking area along Ridge Trail begins here. 2.5 miles (4km) north of Grant Kings Canyon” for more. GIANT FOREST Divide and the western half of the the Generals Highway requires an clear of trees, rocks, people, and other obstacles. See page 5 for safety tips. Grove. It offers 10 miles (16km) of Rent snowshoes and cross-coun - accessibility permit for parking. park. 2 miles (3.2 km) from the try skis downstairs at Wuksachi Once much snow flies, access to Generals Highway. STICK TO DESIGNATED AREAS: Snowplay is prohibited in park Lodge, and purchase a ski-trail the world’s largest tree is from the TUNNEL LOG : A fallen sequoia residential areas, and other areas as signed. map. Talk to a ranger, then care - parking area along the Generals IN KINGS CANYON PARK fully follow the yellow triangular that was tunneled through. The Highway. The trail from there may only tree you can ski through in NOTE LOCATIONS OF PUBLIC PHONES: Cell signals are poor. markers above eye level on trees not be plowed, but snow is usually th (other than sequoias). these parks. 2 miles (3.2 km) Diall 911 in emergencies. 85 Annual packed down enough to walk on from the Generals Highway. GIANT FOREST MUSEUM : The it. Trek to the Tree Ceremony CRESCENT MEADOW : Several best place to start your visit and If the upper trail is too steep and Wolverton Snowplay Area trails connect here. It is 1 mile (1.6 December 12, 2010 at 2:30 pm learn about the Big Trees . you don’t have an official placard, near the Giant Forest in Sequoia National Park km) from here to Tharp’s Log, the just ask for one at any visitor cen - Held annually at the base of the General BIG TREES TRAIL : This 2/3-mile (1 hollow fallen sequoia lived in by nd ter. If you can walk down but not Sledding hills two miles (3.2 km) north of the Sherman Tree. After storms, Grant Tree on the 2 Sunday of December km) trail (no yellow markers) circles Giant Forest’s first settler. The sum - it may take several hours for plows to open the area. back up, have your driver pick you Round Meadow. Colorful trailside mer High Sierra Trail runs 71 miles up at the lower parking area on • Cross-country skis & snowshoes are rented at Wuksachi Lodge, and This event celebrates both the holiday season panels describe sequoia ecology. (114 km) to Mt. Whit ney (highest the Generals Highway. snowplay gear, snacks, and hot drinks are sold there (see page 8). and two honors given to the General Grant Tree: Park at Giant Forest Museum or, peak in thelower 48 states at once it is plowed, the small lot 14,494 feet/ 4417 m). • Public telephones: The closest are outside the building next to the - President Coolidge designated it the official near Round Meadow. Then ski or MORO ROCK/CRESCENT Wolverton restrooms and at Lodgepole Visitor Center. Dial 911 in emer - Nation’s Christmas Tree in 1926 (the “National snowshoe on either side of the MEADOW ROAD gencies. Christmas Tree” is lit on the Mall in Washington, road (not in the road). This 3-mile (5 km), dead-end • Snowplay is prohibited in the Sherman Tree Trail area. D.C.); and When there is no snow, paved road closes in winter to be - - In 1956, President Eisenhower proclaimed the trails lead from the north end of come a ski and snowshoe trail. MINERAL KING tree the only living National Shrine, and had his the museum plaza, around the It begins at the Giant Forest Snowplay Areas in & around Grant Grove personal representative, Fleet Admiral Nimitz, The steep road to meadow, and back via the other Museum on the Generals in Kings Canyon National Park officially dedicate it on Veteran’s Day that year. side of the road. High way, crosses the south - this subalpine val - west portions of the sequoia ley closed at the In the National Park (Grant Grove) : Columbine & Big Stump. Each year during the ceremony, park rangers GENERAL SHERMAN TREE : grove, and ends at Crescent park boundary as In the National Forest: Cherry Gap, and, when the Generals Highway is place a large wreath at the base of this giant se - Through mid-winter, if conditions Meadow. Highlights in clude: of November 1; it not closed by snow, Big Meadows & Quail Flat. quoia in memory of men and women who gave permit, the upper trail and parking reopens May 28, MORO ROCK : A granite dome • Cross-country skis & snowshoes are rented, and snowplay gear, snacks, their lives in service to their country. Caroling and stay open (take the Wolverton if weather per - with a steep 1/4-mile (.4 km) stair - and hot drinks are sold at Grant Grove Market. readings are also part of the ceremony. Road between the Sherman Tree mits. Skis or case to the summit (300 foot /91 The event is sponsored by the Sanger Chamber and Lodgepole and follow signs). snowshoes are • Public telephones: The closest are outside the Grant Grove Visitor m elevation gain). Don’t climb if of Commerce. Parking is limited. Chartered buses From there you walk down to the required for win - Center, Gift Shop, and Market. Dial 911 in emergencies. there is any ice or snow on the from Sanger are available. For information: tree. While this upper option is ter visits. Page 8 stairs; it is very dangerous. A spec - • Snowplay is prohibited in the Grant Tree Trail area. Azalea Campground 559-875-4575 or www.sanger.org. has more details. is for campers only, not people who are just snowplaying.

6 WINTER 2010-11 SEQUOIA & KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS & SEQUOIA NATIONAL FOREST / GIANT SEQUOIA NATIONAL MONUMENT WINTER 2010-11 7 FACILITIES IN SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK Giant Forest Sequoia Grove Foothills Area 6400’ (1950m) elevation. This grove is the home of the world’s 1300-3500’ (457-1067 m) elevation. Oaks, chaparral, & river can- biggest trees. It offers 40 miles (64 km) of walking and ski trails. yons; hot summers & snow-free winters; the greatest biological See highlights, page 6, and traffic-delay information, page 12. diversity in these parks. Park headquarters is at Ash Moun tain. • Visitor Center (NPS) : Daily 8am-4:30pm. Exhibits, books, maps, • Giant Forest Museum (NPS) : Closed 11/28 until spring bear canisters, first aid. Local wilderness permits self-issued out - (Lodgepole Visitor Center is open instead). No payphone; closest side visitor center through 5/26/11. 1-559-565-4212. are at Lodgepole & Wolverton (don’t rely on cell phones). • Camping (NPS) : At Potwisha. Details on page 11. • Pay Telephones (cell phone signals are usually poor): Foothills Crystal Cave Visitor Center near front door; Potwisha Campground, Hospital A major park highlight! Reopens 5/7/11, weather permitting. Rock Picnic Area (on restroom wall). Lodgepole Village Mineral King Area Road to this area closed until May 27, 2011. 6700’ (2040 m) elevation. A few miles north of Giant Forest, in beautiful Tokopah Canyon along the Marble Fork of the Kaweah 7800’ (2380 m) elevation. A subalpine valley at the end of a River. For nearby picnic areas see page 3 & the map on page 12. steep, narrow, twisting road. No RVs, buses, or trailers, please. No electricity or gasoline. INFORMATION (NPS) • Ranger Station (NPS): Closed for the season. Self-issue wilder - • Visitor Center : Daily 9am-4:30pm starting 11/29. Bears of the ness permits outside. 1-559-565-3768. Sierra movie; exhibits on geology & forest life; books; maps. Pay • Pay Telephones: Cold Springs Campground, Sawtooth parking phone. 1-559-565-4436. Wilderness permits , required for area, Silver City Resort. Cell phone signals are extremely poor. overnight trips, self-issued outside to the left of the front door of the visitor center. Details on page 4. 1-559-565-3766. • Silver City Mountain Resort : Closed for the season. Cabins, chalets, showers, small store, restaurant: 1-559-561-3223; FOOD & SHOPS (DNCPR) - Reopen starting mid-April 2011 www.silvercityresort.com. On private land. • Market & Gift Shop, Watchtower Deli, Snack Bar, Laundry • Camping (NPS): Closed. No RVs or trailers. See page 11. OTHER SERVICES • Post Office : Year-round. Weekdays 8am-1pm & 2-4pm. 1-559- Wuksachi Lodge & Dining 565-3678. Lobby open 24 hours. Address mail to visitors: c/o 7200’ (2160 m) elevation. DNCPR: Year-round lodging & food General Delivery, Sequoia National Park, CA 93262. service in Sequoia 4 miles (6.4 km) north of Sherman Tree. • Lodgepole Campground (NPS) : Open all year. See page 11. Delaware North Companies Parks & Resorts • Pay Telephones: Outside visitor center & market (cell-phone (DNCPR) and the National Park Foundation signals are usually poor). make it easy for Wuksachi Lodge guests to contribute to these parks. Ask about the Wilderness Camps Guest Donation Program when you check in! • Dining Room: Daily 7:30am-9:30pm, 11:30am-2:30pm, 5-8:30pm. SUMMER: BEARPAW MEADOW HIGH SIERRA CAMP Dinner reservations required. Box lunches available. 1-559-565- (DNCPR) Open mid-June to mid-September, weather permitting. 4070. Lounge 5-8:30pm. A tent hotel at 7800’ (2377m) elevation on the High Sierra Trail, an • Gift Shop: Daily 8am-8pm. Souvenirs, clothing, crafts. 11-mile hike from the Giant Forest. Reservations required; taken • Alta Market & Ski Shop: Daily 10am-6pm through 3/11. Opens starting January 2, 7am PST: 1-888-252-5757. www.visitsequoia.com 9am when adequate snow for skiing. Supplies; sales of snowplay WINTER: PEAR LAKE SKI HUT equipment, cross-country ski and snowshoe rentals (See page 6). (SNHA) Open 12/17/10 - 4/24/11. Cabin at 9200’ (2800m), 6 steep • Wuksachi Lodge: See page 10 for details. Front desk 24 hours. miles from Giant Forest via a difficult ski/snowshoe trail (See page 3). • Pay Telephones : At main lodge. Cell-phone signals are poor. Reservations required: 559-565-4222; www.sequoiahistory.org

FREE NATURE PROGRAMS Join us! Check bulletin boards and visitor centers for updated times, topics, and meeting locations. IN THE FOOTHILLS Park rangers may offer walks and talks throughout the winter.

IN GIANT FOREST & LODGEPOLE Rangers may offer walks and talks, including snowshoe walks when there is enough snow. Snowshoes are provided free. Group size is limited; make reservations at any visitor center or call 1-559-565-4480. Snowshoeing may be strenuous and difficult for small children. Not enough snow? Look for alternate programs.

8 WINTER 2010-11 SEQUOIA & KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS FACILITIES IN KINGS CANYON PARK & USFS Grant Grove Village Area Paying Your Entrance Fee at 6600’ (2008 m) elevation. This was originally General Grant Kings Canyon in Grant Grove National Park, created in 1890 to protect sequoias from logging. One fee covers both parks and the forest! Pay this required Here are both a pristine grove & one that was logged in the 1800s. entrance fee or show your pass at the kiosk in front of the INFORMATION Kings Canyon Visitor Center at Grant Grove. • Kings Canyon Park Visitor Center (NPS) : Daily 9am-4:30pm. Construction on a new entrance station on Highway 180 Exhibits, movie in English & Spanish. Books, maps, first aid, bear near the park boundary starts this spring. canisters. Local wilderness permits issued until 4pm. 1-559-565- 4307. FOOD, LODGING & OTHER SERVICES USFS: National Fores t & Monument • Restaurant (KCPS): Daily 9am-2pm & 5-7pm (8pm Friday- Hume Lake & Big Meadows Areas (FS) Saturday). Giant Sequoia National Monument, part of Sequoia National • Gift Shop, Market & Ski Rental (KCPS) : Daily 9am-6pm (7pm Forest, borders the western edge of these National Parks. You are Friday-Saturday). Souvenirs, clothing, ATM. Food, supplies, sand - in National Forest when you drive from the park area of Lodge- wiches, bear canisters, emergency gasoline, snow play gear. Cross- country skis/snow shoes rented when enough snow has fallen. See pole to Grant Grove and from Grant Grove to Cedar Grove. page 6 for snow play information. PAY TELEPHONES (cell-phone signals are usually poor): • Camping & Lodging : See page 10-11. Lodge front desk in restau - • Between Wuksachi Village & Grant Grove: Summer only at rant building: 7am-10pm. Big Meadows trailhead. • Post Office : Hours may vary. Monday-Friday 9am-3:30 pm; Satur- • Between Grant Grove & Cedar Grove : Hume Lake (year round; day 10-noon. Lobby open 24 hours. Send mail for visitors to: c/o see Hume Lake below); Kings Canyon Lodge (summer only). General Delivery, Kings Canyon NP, CA 93633. 1-559-335-2499. INFORMATION • Showers (KCPS) : Closed for the season. • USFS Hume Lake District Office (FS): 35860 Kings Canyon Road (Hwy 180) in Dunlap, 19 miles (31 km) west of Kings • Stables - Horseback Riding : See page 3. Canyon park entrance at Big Stump. Weekdays 8am-4:30pm. • Pay Telephones : Kings Canyon Visitor Center (booth by front Maps & books sold. 1-559-338-2251; www.fs.fed.us/r5/sequoia. door) & outside gift shop & market. Cell phone signals are poor. LODGING & OTHER SERVICES • Camping (FS) & Lodging (private): See pages 10 & 11 for details. Cedar Grove Village • Montecito Lake Resort (FS permittee): Open all year. A resort on public land. On Generals Highway 9 miles (14.5km) south of in the Kings Canyon Grant Grove. Meals 8-9am, noon-1pm, & 6-7pm. Cabins, hotel, Road to this area is closed until mid-April. children’s activities, x-c skiing. 1-800-227-9900; 1-559-565-3388. • Hume Lake: Open all year. Facilities on public land open to the 4600’ (1410 m) elevation. This glaciated valley features towering public: 24-hour laundry (coin operated) & gas station (with granite cliffs, tumbling waterfalls, and the powerful Kings River — credit card). Market & snack shop . North of Grant Grove 8 “a rival to the Yosemite,” according to John Muir. miles (13km) on Hwy 180, then right on Hume Lake Road 3 miles INFORMATION (5km). 1-559-335-2000. • Visitor Center (NPS) : Closed for the season. Books, maps, first • Boyden Cavern : On Highway 180. Daily tours start in spring. aid, bear canisters. 1-559-565-3793. • Stony Creek Resort (FS): Closed for the season. On the Generals FOOD, LODGING, & OTHER SERVICES - Reopens 5/12/11 Highway. 1-866-KCANYON; 1-559-565-3909. • Restaurant, Gift Shop & Market (KCPS) : Closed for the season. GASOLINE SALES IN THIS AREA • Lodging : See page 10. Front desk 8am-7pm. • At Hume Lake & Stony • Pay Telephones : Outside lodge & ranger station. Creek (USFS permit - tees) and Kings Canyon • Camping : See page 10-11. Lodge (private facility • Horseback Riding : Details on page 3. on private land). See page 3 for details.

FREE NATURE PROGRAMS Check bulletin boards and visitor centers for details on these and other programs.

IN GRANT GROVE: • Given enough snow, s nowshoe walks are offered Saturdays and Sundays from 12/26 through late March. Snowshoes are provided free. Group size is limited; make reservations at any visitor center or call 1-559-565-4480. Snowshoeing may be strenuous and difficult for small children. • Evening programs Saturday nights at the John Muir Lodge beginning 1/8/2011. • Additional programs may be offered; check bulletin boards.

SEQUOIA NATIONAL FOREST / GIANT SEQUOIA NATIONAL MONUMENT WINTER 2010-11 9 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. S S These rules protect the park & you! * Silver City Mountain Resort * CAMPING DO & DON’T : 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 FROM BEARS! NO HOLDING CAMPSITES RVS & TRAILERS late May to mid-October. Cabins, It’s required all year! Learn how to You may not hold a site for someone Length limits & advisory : See chalets, supplies, restaurant, gifts, do it correctly — see below. who has not arrived. Sites not Rules of the Road (page 5) and bakery, showers. No gas. CAMPFIRE RESTRICTIONS occupied for 24 hours are consid - Road Delays & Detours (page 12) ered abandoned; property may be KINGS CANYON PARK Always check bulletin boards. for vehicle-length limits and impounded. • Grant Grove Lodge & Gather only dead & down advisories. Dump stations: See chart on page 11. John Muir Lodge (KCPS) wood; do not cut limbs off trees. GROUP SITES & Reservations: 1-866-522-6966 Trailers are permitted in all but Better yet, bring wood with you. MAXIMUM GROUP SIZES Front Desk: 1-559-335-5500 four park camp grounds; check Fires must be out cold before UP TO 6 : Many campgrounds allow www.sequoia-kingscanyon.com. you leave. only one vehicle & six people per the chart on page 11. Many sites Open all year. In Grant Grove. In the national forest & monument site. Check locally for slight varia - are not suitable for trailers or Hotel, cabins, restaurant, showers you must get a free campfire tions in these limits & parking RVs. Sites may not be level. (closed in winter), store, gifts. Vehicles over 30 feet long can fit permit from the Hume Lake locations for extra vehicles. • Cedar Grove Lodge (KCPS) District Office, Kings Canyon 7 TO 19 : In summer, Crystal Springs in a small number of sites. Reservations: 1-866-522-6966 Visitor Center (Grant Grove), (Grant Grove) has first-come, No hookups are available. Front Desk: 1-559-565-0100 or a Forest Service ranger. first-served sites for groups of 7- QUIET & GENERATOR HOURS www.sequoia-kingscanyon.com 15. Canyon View in Cedar Grove Mid-May to mid-October. In the ROADSIDE CAMPING? 10pm-6am. Generator use: At has sites for 7-19; $35/site. Kings Canyon. Motel, public show - It’s not permited in the park. Lodgepole & Dorst only 8-11am LARGER : Call in advance for infor - ers, res tau rant, laundry, store. Camp only in designated sites in & 5-8pm; at other campgrounds mation on requesting summer campgrounds. In the National 9am-9pm only. Music should be SEQUOIA NATIONAL FOREST/ group tent-camping sites: For Forest & Monument, roadside audible in your campsite only. MONUMENT AREA Sunset or Canyon View 1-559- camping is permitted unless • Montecito Lake Resort (formerly 565-4335 (5/1-10/31: 565-3792 for post ed otherwise. Ask a ranger BE A VOLUNTEER HOST! Montecito-Sequoia Lodge) Canyon View). To reserve a group Reservations: 1-800-227-9900 for possible locations. Live in the park, take care of camp - site in Dorst or in the national grounds & resources, & meet Front Desk: 1-559-565-3388 PROPANE CANISTERS forest/monument: 1-877-444- great people! Learn about volun - www.mslodge.com. Open all year. Do not put propane or other fuel 6777 or www.recreation.gov. teer opportunities here and On Generals Hwy 9 miles (14.5 km) canisters in park trash cans or TIME LIMITS ON CAMPING nationwide at www.volunteer. south of Grant Grove. Cabins, leave them in the parks. Take Camping stays are limited to 14 days gov/gov. restaurant, hotel, lodge, seasonal them with you when you leave. between June 14 and Sep tem ber & children’s activities. 14, with 30 days total • Stony Creek Lodge (KCPS) per year. Reservations: 1-866-522-6966 Front Desk: 1-559-565-3909. www.sequoia-kingscanyon.com PROPER FOOD STORAGE IS THE LAW! Open early May through October ears often get unattended food and even break into cars that 9. On Generals Highway between have food in them. They be come bold and sometimes ag gres sive Grant Grove & Lodgepole. Hotel, Bin attempts to get more. Too often these bears must be killed. restaurant, market, showers, gas. This is why you may be fined if you do not store food properly. The • Big Meadows Cabin (FS) following reduces, but does not eliminate, the risk of a bear break-in: 1-877-444-6777; www.recreation. • DRIVERS - Never leave any food or scented item in cars. gov. Open mid-June to mid- • CAMPERS - Store food day and night in the metal boxes provided October. An historic guard station (see page 11 for box sizes; avoid bringing coolers that won’t fit). in the National Monument Store ALL food, coolers, related items, and anything with an odor between Grant Grove & Lodgepole. (even if it’s not food) — including unopened cans and bottles. Latch * Kings Canyon Lodge * the box completely. Food not stored properly will be impounded. Reservations: 1-559-335-2405 Where boxes are not provided, seal food to reduce odors, cover it Open mid-April to mid-November. well, and close the windows. Keep a clean campsite. Deposit garbage On Hwy 180, 13 miles (21 km) east immediately in bear-proof containers or store it like food. Take infant of Grant Grove. seats out of cars; the smells they absorb may attract bears. Sales of Note: These two facilities are on • PICNICKERS - Never leave food unattended. * private land and cannot be evaluat - • LODGE GUESTS - Keep cabin doors closed any time you leave. Save-a ed, regulated, or endorsed by the • BACKPACKERS - Hanging food is not effective in these parks! Store National Park or National Forest. all food in a portable canister. Less than 3 pounds, it holds up to 5- -Bear day’s food for one and fits in a pack. Metal boxes in a few backcoun - kits & pins in NEIGHBORING TOWNS try locations offer backup storage. Rent or buy a canister at park visi - Three Rivers, Lemon Cove, Squaw tor centers or markets. visitor centers Valley & others offer year-round • EVERYONE - Don’t let bears approach you or your food. Wave your directly support lodging, camping, & services. Ask at arms, make loud noises, and throw small rocks toward them (avoid visitor centers or check www.nps.gov/ hitting the face or head). Keep a safe distance but be persistent. bear seki, click PLAN YOUR VISI T then link Abandoning your food teaches bears that approaching humans is management. to LODGING . acceptable, but if a bear does get food, never try to take it back. WILDERNESS LODGE & PERMITS See page 4 for details. 1S0 EQUWOIINAT NEAR TI2O0N1A0L -F1O1R E S T & G I A N T S E Q U O I A N A T I O N A L M O NSUEMQEUNOT IA & KINGS CANYON NSAUTMIOMNEARL 2P0A0R1 KS 8 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. letin boards to help save a bear! Symbols on the chart tell the size of bear-proof food-storage “Nearby”-Within 2 miles/ 3.2 See other rules on page 10. boxes available in each campground: *Summer reservations for Dorst & 4 -Year-round # One small box per site (47” long x 17”deep x 16”high); Lodgepole (in Sequoia NP) & for b -Summer only F 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 + Additional boxes available for sites to share. (USFS) may be made up to 6 Food Showers Laundry Dump Nature Riding River Sequoias months in advance of the date # of Daily Rest- within within within Station Programs Pay within within within desired. Contact www.recreation. sites Fee rooms 2 miles 2 miles 2 miles Nearby Nearby Phone 2 miles 2 miles 2 miles gov or 1-877-444-6777 (7am -9pm PST from 3/1-10/31). Customer serv - ice: 888-448-1474. # $ IN SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK (NPS) FOOTHILLS AREA Elevation 2100’-3600’. Lowest in elevation, therefore warmest and, rarely snowy. Potwisha : F Open all year. 40 $18 Flush 4b4 4 Buckeye Flat : F Last night 9/28, 28 $18 Flush at b4 then closed. No trailers or RVs. Potwisha South Fork : # Open all year. 10 $12 May Vault 4 No water starting 10/15 . -Oct. MINERAL KING AREA Elevation 6650’ - 7500’. No RVs or trailers. ROAD CLOSED UNTIL 5/27/11. Atwell Mill : # Last night 10/31 . 21 $12 Vault bb b 44 No piped water starting 10/20. Cold Springs : # Last night 10/31 . 40 $12 Vault at Silver at Silver b4 4 No piped water starting 10/13. City City LODGEPOLE AREA Elevation 6700’. *= reservable in summer up to 6 months in advance ( see Reservations above.) *Lodgepole : @ + Open all year. 205 $20/18 Flush bbbb4b 44 Reservation period late May through 9/29. $20 during summer reservation period then $18. *Dorst : @ + Closed. 210 $20 Flush bbb 44 IN KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK (NPS) GRANT GROVE AREA Elevation 6500’. Azalea : F Open all year. 110 $18/10 Flush 4b 4at village b4 Crystal Springs : F Closed. 36 $18 Flush 4b 4“ b4 Sites for groups of 7-15 (see page 10): 14 $35 Sunset : F Closed. 157 $18 Flush 4b 4“ b4 CEDAR GROVE AREA (ON THE FLOOR OF THE KINGS CANYON ) Elevation 4600’. AREA CLOSED UNTIL MID-APRIL. Sentinel : 4600’ F+ 83 $18 Flush bbb bat visitor b4 Last night open 9/28. center Sheep Creek : 4600’ F + Last night 11/11. 111 $18 Flush bbb b“ b4 Canyon View : 4600’ F + Last night 10/11. 12 $35 Flush bbb b“ b4 All sites are for groups of 7-19 people. Moraine : 4600’ F Closed. 120 $18 Flush bbb b“ b4 SEQUOIA NATIONAL FOREST/GIANT SEQUOIA NATIONAL MONUMENT (FS) HUME LAKE AREA Elevation 4000’ - 5900’. *= reservable in summer. CLOSED IN WINTER. *Princess : Campground & dump station 88 $18 Vault b $7 b44 single Dump station not recommended for vehicles over 30 feet long. *Hume Lake : F Last night 9/25. 74 $20 “ Flush 44b44 Tenmile : No water. Closes with snow. 13 $16 Vault 44 Landslide : Last night 9/17. 9 $16 Vault 44 Convict Flat : Last night 11/14. No water. 5 Vault 4 BIG MEADOWS & STONY CREEK AREAS Elevation 6400-7500’. *= reservable in summer. CLOSED IN WINTER. *Stony Creek : # Closed. 49 $20 single Flush bbb bat lodge 44 *Upper Stony : # Closed. 18 $16 Vault bbb bat lodge 44 Horse Camp: No water. Closes with snow. 5 Vault 4 Buck Rock: No water. Closes with snow. 11 Vault Big Meadow: F No water. “ “ “ 45 Vault by trailhead 44

& SEQUOIA NATIONAL FOREST / GIANT SEQUOIA NATIONAL MONUMENT WINTER 2010-11 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 r here in e ek AREA e KINGS e k r winter C The Wye Kings Canyon Park boundary Overlook Horse 180 G Camp en CANYON e Big Stump Quail ra Entrance ls Flat Weaver f Big Meadows Road a Lak e lo STEEP ROADS: r (closed in winter) a NA g TIONAL Su

Grades of 5-8%. k e e Eshom r Downshift to avoid C H i P ARK g Jennie Lak e Se ville overheated or failed h Montecito Lake w Lak e a Resort y y F brakes. See page 5. n e o r t g S u s o n

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e ek ROAD DELAYS & DETOUk RS FROM FOOTHILLS TO : e re S CANYO k C ING N N N K ATI O K ON Y R • New Cedar Grove Bridge —A Giant Forest - 1 hour. N A K L A P R PA C A through 11/2011: R Lodgepole - 1 hour. S L P r K G A e IN N L v The area is c QUOIA NATI

K O o loE sed for thOeN season. Work I Dorst l Lodgepole S AT A AL

Visalia - 1 hour. N N C PA Big Bir d IO Creek Visitor Center resumes when Cedar Grove reRoKpens mid-April. AT Lak e N 6720ft & Village Mineral King - 1-1/2 A 2048m OI 6720ft EQU Wuksachi hour. Road closed S 2048m • GeneTokraolpsa h Highway reconstruction - Village r ve AmphFiatllsheater Point to Deer Ridge — Nov 1 to late May. Ri through 5/2012: Giant Forest detail map Halstead FROM GIANT FOREST TO y a Expect delays up to 2 hours on weekdays. h w a h Heather LODGEPOLE & e g Moose Grant Grove - 1 ho ur. w i PossibLlaek e night closures 9pm-5am Monday Crystal Cave a H Wolverton Lak e GIANT FOREST K night - Friday morning with one pass-through s l FROM GRANT GROVE T O : AREA a Fork r at 11:30pm. Traffic signals control passage dur-

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Cedar Grove - 1 hour. NATIONAL Pinewood e General ing non-working hours. Vehicles more than G n FOREST k Sherma Road closed mid- e Tree 22’ long cannot travel between Hospital r re e C v Rock and Giant Forest Museum due to Nov to lat e April. i SIERRA R395 Giant Forest Museum GIANT Federal Highways construction limits, through Fresno - 1-1/2 hours. NATIONAL 6409ft FOREST KINGS a FOREST 1954m Crescent 5/2012; vehicles more than 22’ long cannot cc Auto Yosemite south entry CANYON h u Meadow

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a Log make the tight curves in the one-lane con- l e b

NA TIONAL r w via Hwy 41 - 3 hrs . a struction zone. For most recent construction

a Tunnel SEQUOIA P ARK K M Log schedules, see http://www.nps.gov/seki/ Moro R ock 6725ft parknews/newsreleases.htm 180 2050m R rk NA h TIiveONAL SEQ UOIA Fo Kawea r LIFE ZONES: NATION AL k Hospital Beware of narrow, rough roads. See bul- r Potwisha 180 FOREST o Rock dle F d letin boards at visitor centers for updates High Sierra - 2080ft Mi 634m and detPailsA. ThRankK you for your patience 9,000 to 14,500 feet. Buckeye Flat h while we work to improve park roads. 245 t 2820ft r

Summer: Warm to chilly SEQUOIA o 860m

N FOOTHILLS days; nights down to NA TIONAL AREA low 30s. Winter: frigid. P ARK Foothills

Conifer zone - 198 INYO Ash Mountain Entrance 5,000 to 9,000 feet. NATIONAL 216 FOREST Summer: Warm days & Foothills Visitor Center Silver City cool nights. Winter: deep Park Headquarters Resort snow, cold days. 1700ft Atwell Grove 518m Mineral King Foothills zone - Visitor Center 7504ft er 1,500 to 5,000 feet. iv Atwell Mill 2287m Mild, wet winters; hot, R Road closes Three Rivers here in winter MrINERAL KING Cold dry summers. Cedar 857ft ve Eas Ri Grove is cooler than the 261m t AREA Springs h h a Fo Lookout P oint ea foothills, but hotter than e r w w k Entrance Ka a Grant Grove. K 198

INYO Third Class Mail NATIONAL WINTER 2010-2011 Postage & Fees Paid FOREST r SEQUOIA & KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS U.S. Department of the Interior G-83 e v i SIERRA R395 470 50 Generals Highway NATIONAL FOREST KINGS Three Rivers, CA 93271-9651

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198 INYO NATIONAL 216 FOREST EXPERIENCE YOUR AMERICA!