Sequoia National Park is one of the oldest national parks in the United States. Spanning over 400,000 acres, the Park was established in 1890 to protect the Big Trees in Giant Forest, including the General Sherman Tree, the world's largest tree. The Park also features Mt. Whitney, the highest mountain in the contiguous 48 states reaching 14,494 feet.
Today, most park visitors arrive by private vehicle, but the increasing number of motor vehicles in the nation's Parks threaten the very resources parks were created to protect. Nearly 300 million visitors visit the nation's National Parks every year. More visitors mean more traffic on park roads and in parking areas, resulting in lengthy delays and roadway congestion. This congestion translates to air and noise pollution which threatens the fragile natural and cultural resources within the Parks.
Your use of Alternative Transportation Systems (ATS), such as transit and bicycles, mitigate congestion throughout the Park, protect our natural resources, promote economic develop, foster strong partnerships, and enhance visitor safety and security.
For more information about the National Park's transportation program, click here.
Nestled at the base of the magnificent Sierra Nevada Range, Visalia's Central California location is an asset to both businesses and visitors. Visalia is centrally located between California’s largest urban areas, San Francisco to the north and Los Angeles to the south. The community of 100,000-plus is nestled between the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the east and the Costal Mountains to the west.
The oldest city between Los Angeles and Stockton, Visalia, is located at the intersection of State Highway 99 and 198. Visalia is also located only hours away from California's major scenic and entertainment attractions. Besides its convenience to other parts of the state, Visalia is the gateway to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, one of the most dramatic landscapes in North America. At 14,494 feet in elevation, the summit of Mt. Whitney, on Sequoia National Park's eastern boundary, is the tallest peak in the continental United States. The majestic Giant Sequoia trees, reaching heights of 300 feet, as well as the beautiful panoramas of lakes, evergreens, meadows and wildlife throughout the Sequoia National Forest and the Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, are just an hour's scenic drive from downtown Visalia.
Visalia is the perfect blend of prosperous businesses, outstanding shopping centers, friendly neighborhoods, and a breathtaking landscape. Rugged mountain vistas are the backdrop for this beautiful community with a small town feel. During the summer months the climate is warm and dry, ranging from 68 degrees to 98 degrees.
With its picturesque scenery and economic appeal, Visalia is the ideal travel destination. The area has a vast array of accommodations for vacationers, prospective residents. Or the passing traveler. Whether choosing form a number of elegant hotels, and suites, or charming smaller inns, motels or B & B's, Visalia offers lodging to suit everyone's taste and pocketbook.
For more information about Visalia, visit the Visalia Chamber of Commerce or the Visalia Convention & Visitors Bureau.