Skip the crowds and see Sequoia at its best. Talk about a win-win.
Locals know fall is when Sequoia shows off. You can wander, pause, and soak in the one-of-a-kind beauty without anyone getting in your way.
Enhance your shoulder season experience with a stay at AutoCamp Sequoia, perfectly situated for exploring Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park. Expect cozy, well-equipped accommodations, amenities like an outdoor pool, on-site General Store and restaurant, and Kaweah River access.
Read on for a few must-have tips for a successful fall trip.
Where to:
Hike and explore
Big Trees Trail
The giants are calling. Take the Big Trees Trail for a simple loop that lets you linger among towering sequoias. There’s a little less shade than many areas of the park, making it perfect for breezy fall excursions.
General Sherman
Of course, you can’t plan a hike through Sequoia without seeing General Sherman, the world’s largest tree by volume. Standing in its massive shadow always helps put things in perspective.
Congress Trail
If you’re on the hunt for a quieter path, Congress Trail is a paved loop that starts at the General Sherman and goes about a mile south to a collection of sequoias, a few of which look just as big as the Sherman Tree to the naked eye. No other trail in Sequoia National Park has so many big sequoias in such a short distance.
Moro Rock
Do you dare to climb Moro Rock? Here, over 350 steps lead to a breathtaking granite dome high above the Giant Forest. The challenge is well worth it.
Lakes Trail
When an all-day trek is the goal, the 11.6-mile Lakes Trail offers a moderate, out-and-back adventure past a string of stunning alpine lakes. Pro tip: get your first-come, first-served permit at the Lodgepole Visitor Center.
Explore local art and shops
It isn’t all trees and trails out in the Sierra Nevada foothills. Three Rivers, a quick five minute drive from AutoCamp Sequoia, is packed with funky galleries and shops where you can discover local pottery, jewelry, and woodwork with major Northern California influences.
If there’s one place you must see outside of the park, it’s Kaweah Arts on Sierra Drive. This cool shop and gallery showcases the work of over 50 local creators, offering everything from original paintings to signed prints and many other handmade pieces.
Eat and drink
Kaweah Coffee Roasters
Coffee first, always. You can grab some at AutoCamp Sequoia (along with our complimentary granola), but if you want to venture out, Kaweah Coffee Roasters is the kind of spot where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy really incredible coffee. Come fall, we bet you’ll find a few pumpkin spice concoctions.
Sierra Subs & Salads
For lunch, casual is the name of the game: Sierra Subs & Salads is a favorite for fresh, hearty dishes. We’re obsessed with the Muffuletta–you will be too.
Reimer’s Candies & Ice Cream
Want a little something sweet after a day of exploring? Visit Reimer’s Candies & Ice Cream for homemade chocolates, or a seasonal scoop of ice cream.
Tony’s Taverna on Wheels
Now for the best- kept secret: Tony’s Taverna on Wheels. This little food truck serves up incredible Greek fare with a side of charm: think picnic tables, twinkle lights, and a laid-back atmosphere you’ll love.
See something new
In nearby Three Rivers, the monthly 1st Saturday event brings artists, makers, and food vendors together for an easy celebration of local culture. Strolling through, you’ll find everything from live music and gallery set-ups to unique bites and surprising gifts.
Stare at the night sky
AutoCamp Sequoia’s pool area and fire pits give you a prime view without leaving camp. Grab a S’mores kit, toast a marshmallow or two, and let the stars do the talking.
Stay
Here’s the best part: when your busy day is over, you can come right back to the always-inviting AutoCamp Sequoia. Hang out and spark a conversation with fellow travelers, or grab a quick bite from the Kitchen before climbing into bed. This is fall at its finest.