Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks News
Showing the last 10 news releases. Click here to visit nps.gov's Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks - News section for more.
100th Annual Trek to the Nation’s Christmas Tree scheduled for December 14th
December 5, 2025 | 9:16 am
The 100th Annual Trek to the Nation’s Christmas Tree event is taking place on December 14th at 2 p.m. at the historic General Grant Tree in Grant Grove, Kings Canyon National Park. The official ceremony will begin at 2:30p.m. This cherished tradition celebrates the Nation’s Christmas Tree, the General Grant Tree, which holds a significant place in our nation’s history. December 14th is a free entrance day at Sequoia and Kings Canyon.
Thanksgiving weekend in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
November 26, 2025 | 10:45 am
Thanksgiving weekend is typically busy in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, at a time of year when some services and attractions are closed for the winter. Planning will help to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Solicitation of a Concession Business Opportunity to Operate Pack Station, Guided Trail Rides, Other Services within Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
November 19, 2025 | 12:06 pm
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are seeking proposals to provide pack station, guided trail rides, and other services from Cedar Grove Pack Station and Grant Grove Stables within Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. The new concessioner will provide these services over a 10-year term. The existing contract that has been in place since January 1, 2019, concludes on December 31, 2026. The new contract will provide the same services as those offered under the current contract.
Residential firewood permits available in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
November 13, 2025 | 3:45 pm
Surplus wood in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks is now available to the public by permit. Residential firewood permits are free and must be obtained before wood can be removed. There is a limit of six cords per family per year. Firewood is available on a first-come first-served basis until the supply is gone. This wood is a result of tree mortality, and were trees deemed to be a potential hazard to visitors or property within the parks.
Tourism to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks contributes $230 million to local economy
September 29, 2025 | 5:26 pm
A new National Park Service report shows that a record 2,008,962 visitors to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks in 2024 spent $192.5 million in communities near the park. That spending had a cumulative benefit to the local economy of $230.9 million.
Planning for a Busy Labor Day Weekend, Construction Projects to Follow at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
August 28, 2025 | 12:00 am
Labor Day Weekend marks the end of the summer season and is historically a busy time at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. For an enjoyable visit, it is important for visitors to plan ahead and be prepared for congestion in the parks.
Rangers remove illegal marijuana cultivation site from Sequoia National Park
August 21, 2025 | 12:17 pm
National Park Service law enforcement rangers, in cooperation with special agents from the Bureau of Land Management, removed an illegal marijuana cultivation site in Sequoia National Park last week.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks Wilderness Commercial Use Authorization Application Window Begins August 1
July 31, 2025 | 3:29 pm
Beginning Friday, August 1, businesses can apply for a Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) for select activities within designated wilderness areas of the parks, including stock and non-stock services, such as guided hiking, backpacking, fishing, and more.
Body of Memorial Day weekend drowning located in Sequoia National Park
July 29, 2025 | 9:26 am
The Tulare County Sheriff’s Office (TCSO) Swiftwater Dive Rescue Team (SDRT), in coordination with the National Park Service (NPS), located the body of 26-year-old Jomarie Calasanz of La Puente, California on July 24. Tulare County Coroner’s Office confirmed her identity on July 28. She had been missing since May 25.
Missing hiker found deceased in Sequoia National Park
July 14, 2025 | 9:07 am
A local missing hiker was found deceased below Sawtooth Peak in Sequoia National Park on Sunday, July 13. 36-year-old Drew Hall from Visalia was described as fit and active but was hiking in very rugged terrain. He had separated from his group earlier in the day on Saturday, with plans to meet up later. After not returning within the expected timeframe, family members reported him missing to Sequoia National Park that evening.