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Giant Sequoia - Sequoia National Park
Majestic Mountain Loop
A Great way to sample California's National Parks
Blog Sample California’s National Parks Via the Majestic Mountain Loop

To really experience everything in California’s National Parks, you need one thing and that’s time. Unfortunately, that’s one of the most precious things we have. It's not renewable and usually isn't free and available on our calendars. For those that fit this category, we give you a way to experience THREE of California’s National Parks via the Majestic Mountain Loop.

What Is The Majestic Mountain Loop?

The concept is simple. Provide you a three-day itinerary to see some of the biggest attractions in Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Got a bit more time? We give you alternatives so you can fit in a few more of the nation’s treasures as well.

Starting It Off

If you’re flying to see the sights, the closest and easiest airport is the Fresno-Yosemite Airport. From here, it’s a quick hop, skip, and a roll to the first attraction on the Majestic Mountain Loop.

Day 1 – Sequoia National Park

From the airport or better yet Visalia as your basecamp, you’ll head up into Sequoia National Park. You’ll feast your eyes on things like the General Sherman Tree – the LARGEST living thing on the planet. Then take in the scenic vistas of the Great Western Divide from Moro Rock. Lastly, drive through the infamous Tunnel Log which was created when an elder statesman of the forest fell across the road in 1937.

Click here for the full day’s itinerary.

Tunnel Log in Sequoia National Park

Day 2 – Kings Canyon National Park

Leaving once again from your basecamp of Visalia, you’ll now head north to Kings Canyon and to see what John Muir called a “rival to the Yosemite” valley. Highlights of this beautiful park include the second largest sequoia tree in the world – General Grant. The Boyden Cavern featuring gorgeous stalagmites and stalactites in caves called the Pancake Room and Upside-Down City. And you'll finish things off at the Road’s End. Just like it sounds, this is the jumping off point for many of the famous trails such as Bubbs Creek and Lewis Creek Trails.

Click here for the full day’s itinerary.

Grizzly Falls in Kings Canyon National Park

Day 3 – Yosemite National Park

Yosemite Falls SpringYosemite Falls and Vernal Pool in Spring

Last, but in no way least is Yosemite. From the pleasant town of Oakhurst, you’ll enter the southern gateway of Yosemite. This day’s adventures feature attractions like the largest stand of Giant Sequoias in the park and inspiration for starting the National Park system – the Mariposa Grove. Other highlights include Yosemite Falls (North America's tallest waterfall), Glacier Point which overlooks Yosemite Valley at nearly three thousand feet above it and Tunnel View. Tunnel View was made famous by none other than Ansel Adams.

Click here for the full day’s itinerary or better yet explore the hidden gems or deep dive into some of the classics in Yosemite.

Like a flight of beers or an appetizer platter, the Majestic Mountain Loop gives you a sample of what each of these parks has to offer. And just like that tidbit, you’ll want to return to get a full pour & main entrée of each park to truly appreciate what they have to offer.

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Like what you see? Save any of these pins (or possibly all of them) to your travel planning board(s) to give you an easy way to find your way back here!  Also check out our other blog posts as well as itineraries for more ideas and pins!

Alex Silgalis

Alex founded localfreshies.com® in 2014 to be the #1 website providing the “local scoop” on where to eat, drink & play in mountain towns throughout North America. When he’s not writing and executing marketing strategies for small businesses & agencies, he’s in search of the deepest snow in the winter and tackiest dirt in the summer.

Our annual Visit Yosemite | Madera County Visitors Guide can answer all your questions about visiting California's Gateway to Yosemite. From the park itself to the museums, wineries, art galleries and more throughout Madera County, our guide can help you plan the perfect vacation. Please note that we mail to the USA only, but anyone can download the guide.
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