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What is the Majestic Mountain Loop?
The majestic mountain loop is a route that allows you the ability to visit Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon National Park, and Yosemite National Park. Many people do this as a long weekend trip over the course of 3 days, which allows you to experience the best of all three iconic parks in a short period of time. I recommend purchasing the national parks pass as it will save you money in the long run even if you only visit the majestic mountain loop.
As always when traveling, be sure to check park information for the most up-to-date conditions and closures.
Check here for Yosemite
Check here for King’s Canyon and Sequoia
Travel tip: Traveling between Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park is impacted by the snow in the winter. You can use the following roads to access Wuksachi Lodge and Grant Grove during the winter: Wuksachi Lodge: Highway 198
Grant Grove: Highway 180
Where to stay on Majestic Mountain Loop
When visiting the Majestic Mountain Trail Loop, you have the option to stay inside the parks or outside in a nearby town. Both are good options and the best choice depends on how much time you have and what activities you plan to enjoy while visiting the parks. If you want the easiest access to hiking trails, fishing, and sunrise views, I would recommend staying within the park for the most seamless experience. If you want to experience the local dining and attractions, you will have more options when you stay outside the parks.
Sequoia National Park Hotels
Wuksachi Lodge
Named the signature Sequoia hotel and is located in the heart of the park. Wake up surrounded by the sequoia forest and towering Sierra peaks. Wuksachi is open year-round and offers a contemporary modern experience so you will feel rested and ready to take on the next day of adventures.
Visalia Marriott
The Visalia Marriott is within walking distance from all the bars and restaurants on Main Street, which makes navigating and exploring super easy! I highly recommend this hotel if you can’t get accommodations inside the national parks or if you just want to sleep on a comfortable bed. This Marriott even has a Starbucks on-site. Book your stay!
Buckeye Tree Lodge
You can choose to stay in a lodge room or a cabin at Buckeye’s which is the closest hotel to the park entrance. Enjoy updated cabin-style accommodations with services like yoga classes, massages, and sound baths to help you unwind and connect with yourself and nature.
The Darling Hotel
You will be 45 minutes from Sequoia National Park in downtown Visalia at this 1930s Art Deco-style hotel. The rooftop lounge is the only one in the city so even if you don’t stay here, I recommend stopping in for a appetizer or drink for some spectacular views and food.
Kings Canyon National Park Hotels
John Muir Lodge
Located in Grant Grove Village, John Muir Lodge is a favorite for travelers for its rustic charm and history. Dining is available on-site and it is pet-friendly if you are traveling with your furry family members.
Grant Grove Cabins
Grant Grove Cabins are all within walking distance of the Grant Grove and the world-famous General Grant Tree. This is a popular place to stay at Kings Canyon so reserve early if you are hoping to stay here. There are a few cabin options available, some do not have electricity or plumbing so be aware if you are looking for more modern accommodations.
Cedar Grove Lodge
Currently, the Cedar Grove Lodge is closed due to construction on the connecting roads. However, check their website for the most up-to-date information as it is one of the best accommodation options for staying in Kings Canyon.
Yosemite National Park Hotels
Sierra Sky Ranch
This place is an oasis right outside Yosemite. Sierra Sky Ranch is in the Sierra Nevada mountains, which will immerse you into the atmosphere of the cowboy culture of the Old West. You will be about 30 minutes from Yosemite National Park and can enjoy upscale earthy accommodations after spending the day in the wilderness. Book your stay!
The Ahwahnee
This hotel is a National Historic Landmark located right inside Yosemite in Yosemite Valley. Surrounded by some of the best views and landmarks of the park like Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, and Glacier Point just outside your window. The Ahwahnee is known for its history and elegance amidst the forest.
Rush Creek Lodge
Located at the HWY 120 West entrance to Yosemite National Park, Rush Creek Lodge offers a spa, swimming pool, and restaurant on site so you have everything you need to recuperate after your full days of adventuring in the park.
Evergreen Lodge
This historic resort offers the classic Yosemite experience with modern comforts in cozy cabins. Enjoy full-service dining and fun activities for families available on-site along with trained guides to give you a personalized backstage look at Yosemite Park.
Where to eat on Majestic Mountain Loop
I always recommend traveling with a few snacks in your bag while you are in the parks, just in case you’re unable to find what you need. While there are some dining options within the parks along the majestic mountain loop, there are also some great restaurants and dining options in the surrounding area as well. Visalia is a great town to visit and is convenient to stop in from either Sequoia or Kings Canyon.
Sequoia National Park Area Dining
The Peaks
Great views in the heart of the park! Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served daily year-round and they are able to accommodate a variety of dietary needs. Located inside the Wuksachi Lodge
Wuksachi Pizza Deck
Also at Wuksachi Lodge, I really enjoyed the pizza that you can find on their deck. There are a variety of options for all dietary needs and they serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. It was a great stop to fuel up but didn’t take away too much time from exploring the park.
Component Coffee Lab
Located in Visalia, this is an easy and convenient stop to make in the mornings for great coffee and an easy breakfast on the go. I recommend the breakfast burrito or avocado toast!
Cellar Door
Located across the street from Component Coffee Lab with a super cool vibe. Live music in the evenings and amazing bagels for breakfast I love the way they infused music, art, and food into one really cool and delicious place.
The Elderwood
Take in the views from the rooftop of The Darling Hotel at The Elderwood. Great food and views of the mountains and city.
The seafood pasta was the best I’ve ever had in California!
Kings Canyon National Park Area Dining
Grant Grove Restaurant
Located in Grant Grove Valley near the John Muir Lodge, this fast-casual restaurant lets you pick up breakfast, lunch, or dinner options like coffee, pizza, sandwiches, and desserts.
BarrelHouse Brewing Co
Located in Visalia about an hour from Grant Grove Village in Kings Canyon, this place had a great ambiance and menu. Supreme outdoor dining, vintage pinball machines, and twenty-six taps of BarrelHouse beers. You can also access it easily from Sequoia National Park, too! You must visit this brewery on your trip!
Yosemite National Park Area Dining
Wawona Hotel Dining Room
Victorian-era style dining room where you can relax for a good meal before or after a day of exploring. Salads, sandwiches, surf and turf, and pasta, there is something for everyone on the menu as Wawona.
The Mountain Room
Enjoy everything from charcuterie and cocktails to sandwiches and smores at this lounge located inside Yosemite Valley Lodge. Open for dinner during the week and lunch and dinner on weekends.
Base Camp
A little bit of everything for everyone is available at Base Camp. From a grill menu to, Mediterranean-inspired dishes, stop by to pick up a meal that utilizes local and seasonal ingredients. Located inside Yosemite Valley Lodge, where there is also a Starbucks.
Curry Village
Mexican, coffee, ice cream cocktails, and pizza, there is plenty to enjoy at Curry Village for all palates.
Activities along the Majestic Mountain Loop
Sequoia National Park Highlights
General Sherman Tree
I recommend doing a tour with Sequoia Guides because while I’ve been to Sequoia National Park many times before, this was the first time I actually immersed myself in the park thanks to my guide’s fascinating stories and knowledge about the Sequoia trees. I highly recommend you start at the General Sherman Tree trailhead and walk down to the world’s largest tree. Plan for a 1.2 mi hike and bring a camera, the trees are beyond impressive.
Congress Tree Trail
This trail conveniently branches off from the General Sherman Tree Trail. Covering a 2.9-mile loop, it’s classified as an effortless hike. As you venture beyond General Sherman, the bustling crowds will disperse allowing you moments of tranquility along the Congress Tree Trail.
Big Trees Trail
Parking is conveniently available at the Big Trees trailhead. During the summer months, if needed, you can utilize the Giant Forest Museum parking lot and then take a short walk over to access this trailhead. The Big Trees Trail encircles Round Meadow in a short 0.7-mile loop. This pathway has a level, paved surface with benches and displays that provide information about the area. Upon completing the Big Trees Trail, I recommend going through the Hazelwood Meadow Trail, located on the opposite side of the road. This trail leads you through another section of the sequoia grove. You also have the option to continue your exploration by driving ahead to witness the beauty of Crescent Meadow!
Moro Rock
I highly recommend climbing the .5mi out and back trail – yes it’s super short. But you do have to climb up 350 steps to the top of Moro Rock. It’s a large granite dome and the views of the surrounding valley and mountains are breathtaking. I would recommend trying to make it for sunrise but don’t forget a headlamp so you stay safe on the trails before dawn.
Hanging Rock Overlook
If climbing 350 steps doesn’t sound like a fun hike for you, then stop by the nearby Hanging Rock Overlook. As the name states, it’s an overlook so there’s not much to hike but the views are beautiful! There will be fewer people than at Moro Rock and this is a great stop to take in a sunset.
Kings Canyon National Park Highlights
Zumwalt Meadow
This short 1.5-mile trail with views of the canyon, meadows, wildflowers, and Sequoia trees. This is a nice trail that won’t take too much time if you have a lot you want to see.
Boyden Cavern
Prepare to see a stunning array of geological formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones, pendants, and shields. A helpful tip: the hike to reach the cavern entrance spans approximately 5 to 15 minutes and boasts a short but steep ascent but there are railings. A tour reservation is necessary to explore the cavern and I recommend dressing in layers since the cavern interior temperature is around 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
Grizzly Falls
The magnificent 80-foot Grizzly Falls is a short drive from Boyden Cavern. This waterfall is practically a stone’s throw away from where you park and there is a little picnic area, which makes it a good place to stop and enjoy lunch. Keep in mind that dining choices within the park are somewhat limited, so plan ahead or bring your own food.
Roaring River Falls
About 15 minutes from Grizzly Falls lies the impressive Roaring River Falls. It’s important to note that there is a designated parking lot specifically for these waterfalls. To avoid any confusion, be sure not to stop by the roadside at the sign indicating “Roaring River,” as this could lead you astray. In such a case, you might find yourself wandering along trails that aren’t the actual route, as I inadvertently did! Rest assured, the correct path is a conveniently short stroll from the parking area, constituting a mere 0.3-mile round-trip hike.
Mist Falls Hike
I highly recommend incorporating the 9-mile round-trip hike to Mist Falls if you have the time. The sheer beauty of the views along this trail makes the journey truly rewarding. This hike is moderately difficult and takes you alongside the South Fork of the Kings River leading you to the waterfall known as Mist Falls.
Yosemite National Park Highlights
Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
Located in the southern portion of Yosemite, the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is the largest sequoia grove in Yosemite and is home to over 500 mature giant sequoias. From April to November, you will need to take the shuttle to the grove. Only cars with disability placards can drive up the Mariposa Grove road. Tip: The Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza near the South Entrance has flush toilets and drinking water. The Mariposa Grove Arrival Area has portable toilets and no drinking water.
Choose from one of several beautiful trails below to experience this grove:
-Big Trees Loop Trail (easy, .3mi loop) – features the Fallen Monarch and interpretive panels on the life and ecology of giant sequoias
-Grizzly Giant Loop Trail (moderate, 2mi loop) – see the Bachelor and Three Graces, the 3,000-year-old Grizzly Giant, and California Tunnel Tree
-Guardians Loop Trail (strenuous, 6.5mi round trip) – see the fallen Wawona Tunnel Tree, the Telescope Tree, and the Mariposa Grove Cabin.
-Mariposa Grove Trail (strenuous, 7mi round trip) – see the Bachelor and Three Graces, the Faithful Couple, and the Clothespin Tree
-Wawona – Look for dozens of Native American Mortars in the flat rocks overlooking the riparian meadows.
Choose from one of the following trails below:
-Wawona Meadow Loop Trail (3.5 miles (5.6 km) loop; 2 hours
-Swinging Bridge Loop Trail (4.8 miles (7.6 km) loop; 2 hours
-Alder Creek Trail (12 miles (18.7 km); 6 to 8 hours
-Chilnualna Falls Trail (8.2 miles (13.1 km) round-trip; 5 hours. 2,400 feet (732 m) elevation gain
Tunnel View
Tunnel View takes on a whole new level of magnificence during sunset, it is an absolute must-visit at that time, there is a parking lot available for this area. It’s worth noting that Tunnel View offers one of the most renowned perspectives of Yosemite Valley. This vantage point grants you an awe-inspiring view of El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall ascending from the depths of Yosemite Valley, all set against the backdrop of the majestic Half Dome. Remember that this viewpoint is situated at the eastern terminus of the Wawona Tunnel, accessible via the Wawona Road HWY 41.
El Capitan Meadow
El Capitan is a massive rock wall that reaches high into the sky above a lush green meadow. Bring your binoculars to watch the climbers on the rock wall while you relax in the meadow. This is a great spot to take a break and take in the scenery.
Don’t forget to download all your trail maps before heading out on the trails since cell service can be unreliable. Get a free month of AllTrails with my promo code: eagertraveler30
Travel Itinerary for Majestic Mountain Loop
Depending on which direction you are coming from, you may want to reverse your travel order. Typically people visit Sequoia or Yosemite first, but I did this a little differently and it worked out really well! I started from the north with Kings Canyon and stayed in Visalia, visited Sequoia on day two, and came back to Visalia. Then continued on to Yosemite as the last stop. Feel free to use this as a guideline and adjust as your travel plans require.
Day 1: Kings Canyon National Park
Enter at Grant Grove on HWY 180 or Lodgepole on HWY 198.
Sights you don’t want to miss:
Boyden Cavern
Grizzly Falls
Roaring River Falls
Zumwalt Meadow
Day 2: Sequoia National Park
Enter at General Sherman Tree Trailhead.
Sights you don’t want to miss:
The General Sherman Tree
Moro Rock
Congress Tree Trail
Big Trees Trail
Hanging Rock Overlook
Day 3: Yosemite National Park
Enter at HWY 41 to Mariposa Grove Road. You will need to park and take the shuttle unless you have a handicap placard.
Sights you don’t want to miss:
Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
Wawona
Tunnel View
El Capitan Meadow
Interested in more California travel inspiration?
Check out my guide to planning a weekend trip to Carmel by the sea!
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