2 Days Private Tour to Sequoia and Kings Canyon Parks from LA

If you’re dreaming of towering trees, breathtaking vistas, and a nature escape that doesn’t require a week-long commitment, this 2-day private tour from Los Angeles might catch your eye. We’ve looked into it to help you decide if it fits your travel style—so here’s the scoop.

What immediately stands out is the personalized experience with a private guide and transportation, making it less about navigating on your own and more about soaking in the scenery. Plus, the tour includes photo and video services, which means you’ll come away with professional-quality memories. On the downside, you’re looking at a hefty price tag—over two thousand dollars for just two days—so it’s definitely an investment, but one that can be justified by the convenience and expert guiding.

This tour appeals especially to those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free visit to these famous parks, without the stress of planning each stop. If you’re a nature enthusiast or just craving a quick but immersive escape into some of California’s most impressive landscapes, this trip could be ideal. However, keep in mind the physical demands—there’s a lot of walking and some hikes involved, which might not suit everyone.

Key Points

• Private tour offers personalized attention and flexibility
• Includes all fees and taxes, so no hidden costs
• Stunning views from Moro Rock and other scenic points
• Comprehensive itinerary covering major highlights of both parks
• Photo and video services included, perfect for capturing memories
• Cost is high, but reflects the private, all-inclusive nature of the experience

The Experience: An In-Depth Look

Starting the Adventure: Pickup and First Stops

Your day begins early at 7:30 am with pickup from your hotel or the airport, which makes it super convenient—no need to worry about navigating or parking. The ride to Sequoia National Park offers a chance to settle in and enjoy the scenery. We love that the tour includes a stop for breakfast at your chosen spot, giving you some flexibility to start the day off right.

Exploring Sequoia: From the Foothills to Giant Trees

The first stops are all about soaking in the park’s impressive features. At the Foothills Visitor Center, you get a quick intro from rangers and a chance to pick up some souvenirs or learn about the park’s history. It’s a good warm-up, especially if you’re into nature or like to gather info before exploring further.

Next, the Tunnel Rock is a neat photo op—this giant boulder with a tunnel through it is a fun little landmark that also has historical significance from the Great Depression era. It’s a quick stop, but one that makes for a good picture.

The Amphitheater Point provides panoramic views of Moro Rock, giving you a sense of the landscape’s scale. It’s one of those spots that makes you pause and appreciate how vast and rugged the terrain really is.

The Star Attractions: Giant Forest and the General Sherman Tree

No visit here is complete without seeing the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on the planet by volume. Standing beneath it, you realize how tiny we are in comparison. The nearby President Tree is even older, estimated at around 3,200 years, which makes the experience even more humbling.

The Giant Forest Museum serves as a good educational spot, with interpretive trails that help you understand these giants. It’s a great place to stretch your legs and get some context about what makes these trees so extraordinary.

Adventurous Hikes and Unique Views

For those who love a bit of activity, the Marble Falls trail offers a three-hour hike to beautiful falls (not available in winter). It’s a moderate route, so some fitness is needed but not extreme. Then, the Beetle Rock viewpoint is a short walk, offering sweeping views of the park’s edge and the San Joaquin Valley.

The Tunnel Log is a fun photo location—you walk through a fallen giant sequoia that has been hollowed out, creating a natural tunnel that’s quite Instagram-worthy.

The Moro Rock Trail is the grand finale of Day 1, with a stairway carved into the granite dome leading to a panoramic summit. The timing for sunset views is ideal, though this may change depending on the season. Be prepared for a bit of a climb, but the reward is a breathtaking vista.

Day Two: Kings Canyon and More Natural Wonders

The next day kicks off with a visit to the Big Stump Grove, which showcases giant sequoia cross-sections, giving you an idea of the massive size of these trees. It’s a fascinating stop for anyone interested in natural history.

Then, you’ll explore the General Grant Tree Trail, home to the Second Largest Tree in the World—the General Grant Tree—and the Fallen Monarch, a fallen giant now used as a narrow corridor. These are awe-inspiring, humbling sights that highlight the scale of nature’s giants.

If you’re visiting between May and October, the Boyden Cavern offers a guided tour of stunning underground formations—stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone—adding an adventurous, cool element to your trip. It’s a highlight for many, especially if you enjoy cave exploring.

Finally, a short hike to Grizzly Falls provides a peaceful, scenic spot to end your tour. A 0.1-mile trail, this falls is perfect for a quick walk and some final photos before heading back to LA.

Logistical Details

All transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the long drives comfortable. Since it’s a private tour, only your group participates, giving you the chance to customize the experience slightly if needed. The tour includes all fees and taxes, so there are no surprises, and you’re also provided with bottled water throughout.

The tour lasts about 2 days, with the total price of $2,090 for up to 5 people. While it’s an investment, the convenience of having everything arranged, combined with the expert guidance, makes it worthwhile for many travelers.

What Do the Reviews Say?

Although there are no official reviews yet, we can infer from the provided information that this tour is designed to maximize your time and exposure to the parks’ highlights. The inclusion of knowledgeable guides, scenic viewpoints, and photo/video services suggests a focus on creating a memorable, hassle-free experience.

Some travelers might find the price steep, but if you value guided insights and professional photography, it could be well worth it. The stops like Moro Rock and the General Sherman Tree are universally loved for their awe factor, and the stops for photos and learning add extra value.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This private tour is perfect for nature lovers who want to see major highlights without the stress of planning. It’s suitable for those who are comfortable with some walking and hiking, as there’s a fair bit of it, including moderate trails and stair climbs.

Because it’s private, it’s ideal for small groups who prefer a more tailored experience and appreciate the convenience of door-to-door service. If you’re traveling with a group of friends, a couple, or even a small family (depending on their age and activity level), this could be a fantastic way to enjoy these parks without the hassle.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day private tour to Sequoia and Kings Canyon from LA is a solid choice if you want an in-depth, guided experience of some of California’s most iconic natural wonders. The mix of scenic viewpoints, giant trees, and unique geological features makes for a truly impressive adventure. While the price is on the higher side, the all-inclusiveness—private transport, expert guides, and professional photo services—adds value that many travelers will appreciate.

It’s best suited for those who prioritize comfort, convenience, and a comprehensive itinerary, rather than a DIY, budget-friendly trip. If you’re up for some moderate hiking and want to see the best of these parks in just two days, this tour could be a great fit.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour isn’t explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the stops involve some walking and hiking, so older kids who can handle moderate activity should manage it well. Always check with the provider if you have very young children.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers private transportation, all fees and taxes, bottled water, and photo/video services. Meals are not included, but there’s a stop for breakfast and dinner.

How long are the driving stretches?
The tour involves a scenic drive from LA to Sequoia, then to Kings Canyon, with stops along the way. While exact durations aren’t specified, expect several hours of travel each way.

Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, there’s some room for flexibility—discuss your preferences with the provider to maximize your experience.

Are the trails difficult?
The hikes mentioned vary from short walks to moderate trails, like Marble Falls. Be prepared for some physical activity, but nothing too strenuous for most reasonably fit travelers.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re craving a well-organized, scenic adventure to see some of California’s most majestic trees and parks, this tour offers a lot. Just weigh the cost against your desire for a guided, private experience—and enjoy the natural wonders that await.