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Sequoia National Park vs Redwood National Park

California's two giant tree parks celebrate different champions. Sequoia has the largest trees by volume (Giant Sequoias), while Redwood has the tallest trees on Earth (Coast Redwoods). Both offer humbling walks among ancient giants.

Sequoia National Park

California

Established

1890

Size

404,064 acres

Annual Visitors

1.2 million

Entry Fee

$35/vehicle

Elevation

1,700 - 14,494 ft

Crowd Level

Moderate

Redwood National Park

California

Established

1968

Size

138,999 acres

Annual Visitors

500,000

Entry Fee

Free

Elevation

0 - 3,097 ft

Crowd Level

Low to Moderate

Side-by-Side Comparison

FeatureSequoia National ParkRedwood National Park
Best Time to VisitMay-October, Spring for waterfallsMay-September, Year-round mild weather
Top HighlightsGeneral Sherman Tree, Moro Rock, Crystal CaveTall Trees Grove, Fern Canyon, Prairie Creek
Main ActivitiesHiking, Cave tours, Wildlife viewingHiking, Scenic driving, Beach walking
Crowd LevelModerateLow to Moderate
Entry Fee$35/vehicleFree
Nearest AirportFresno (FAT) - 80 milesArcata (ACV) - 40 miles

Pros & Cons

Sequoia National Park

Pros

  • + Largest trees by volume
  • + Less crowded than Yosemite
  • + Mount Whitney access
  • + Diverse elevations

Cons

  • - Winding mountain roads
  • - Snow closes roads in winter
  • - Far from major airports
  • - Limited food options
Redwood National Park

Pros

  • + Tallest trees in world
  • + Free admission
  • + Fewer crowds
  • + Coastal access
  • + Roosevelt elk

Cons

  • - Remote location (6 hours from SF)
  • - Foggy and cool
  • - Rain likely
  • - Spread out park units

Best For

Sequoia National Park is Best For:

Giant tree enthusiastsHigh Sierra hikersThose avoiding Yosemite crowds

Redwood National Park is Best For:

Tall tree seekersSolitude loversBudget travelers
Our Verdict

Sequoia is more accessible and offers diverse experiences beyond trees. Redwood is more remote but free, less crowded, and home to the world's tallest living things.

Choose Sequoia National Park if...

Choose Sequoia if you want to see the world's largest trees by volume, explore caves, or combine with Kings Canyon for a Sierra Nevada adventure.

Choose Redwood National Park if...

Choose Redwood if you want to see the world's tallest trees, prefer free admission and fewer crowds, or are road-tripping the Northern California coast.

Ready to Visit?

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