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National Parks

Sequoia National Park: A Trip in Photos

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Sequoia National Park, Sequoia National Park photography, Sequoia National Park things to do, Sequoia National Park with kids, General Sherman tree, Sequoia tree, national parks, national parks with kids, best time to visit national parks, visit national parks with kids

I feel quite fortunate to live in a state that has nine National Parks, the most of any state! And I only live a couple hours from some of them so Sequoia National Park is the perfect weekend getaway for me. If I’m feeling really ambitious I can actually squeeze in a day trip but it’s necessary stay rather than driving home after hiking. Hopefully some of these pictures will inspire you to plan your own trip to Sequoia. Or to the National Park closest to you.

As with most of my posts, some links may be affiliate links. This means at no additional cost to you, I may make a small commission on anything you buy.

Sequoia National Park: The History

President Benjamin Harrison signed legislation on September 25, 1890 to create Sequoia, making it just the second US national park. He made this decision because he was trying to protect the trees from the logging industry. This reasoning made Sequoia a bit different from Yellowstone, the first national park, as it became a park with the purpose of protecting a particular living organism. This park is also home to the tallest mountain in the lower 48 states, Mt. Whitney, and more than 800 miles of trails.

I haven’t hiked all those trails so this is just a glimpse of the natural beauty found in Sequoia. Until you’re standing next to these trees, it’s difficult to fully grasp just how tall they are. Standing next to one of the trees I like quite small!! The General Sherman Tree is 275 feet tall and stands at the north end of Giant Forest.

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    Sequoia Trees
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    Hiking Trails
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  • Sequoia National Park, Sequoia National Park photography, Sequoia National Park things to do, Sequoia National Park with kids, General Sherman tree, Sequoia tree, national parks, national parks with kids, best time to visit national parks, visit national parks with kids

If you’re planning your own trip to Sequoia National Park I highly recommend this Lonely Planet guide. In fact I’d recommend a Lonely Planet guide for almost any trip you take.

You can also check out my visit to Arches National Park in Utah.

Arches National Park

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If you're planning a trip to Utah and are looking for things to do, spend time at Arches National Park for camping, scenic hikes & photography opportunities

I’m back with another edition of Travel Thursday!  Last week I give you a glimpse into my Utah and Colorado road trip, and today we’re going to take an up close look at one of my stops…Arches National Park!  I only stayed for a few hours but my time there was filled with absolutely amazing views and I can’t say it enough…schedule a trip to Utah…there is sooo much beauty!  The Park has more than 2,000 natural stone arches (wow!) and a wide assortment of other red rock features…including some rocks so carefully balanced they look as if they will topple over any minute!  If you plan to visit in the middle of the summer (like I did!) I would recommend getting to the Park early to beat the heat and the crowds.  And now without further ado, a virtual trip through Arches National Park…

Tweet: Make a virtual stop in Arches National Park with @jmdenouden http://bit.ly/1U0fjHw #travel #utah #nationalparks

My first hike was the Park Avenue Trail where I was amazed to see balanced rocks (how in the world do they stay up there like that?!?) as I hiked along the canyon floor.  If you’re heading to Arches National Park in the summer I would highly recommend going first thing in the morning.  This will not only allow you to avoid the heat of the day but it will help you avoid the large crowds.  As a bonus, if you get started early in the day you’ll be able to enjoy shade for the beginning of your hikes!

Tour Arches National Park with Girl on the Move
Tour Arches National Park with Girl on the Move

Tour Arches National Park with Girl on the Move

If you're planning a trip to Utah and are looking for things to do, spend time at Arches National Park for camping, scenic hikes & photography opportunities

Do you have a favorite National Park?  Which National Parks would you recommend I add to my travel bucket list?  Which National Parks are on your travel bucket list?