Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned park expert, this list will ensure that you have everything you need to enjoy a day in Sequoia National Park. Please note that you may not leave anything on the Shuttle during your trip, so plan to carry everything you need with you.
– You need somewhere to put your trip necessities; a small- or medium-sized backpack is the perfect carry-all. Plus, a backpack allows you to keep your hands free, so you’ll be ready for anything.
– Hydration is of utmost importance, no matter how long or short your hike is. Fortunately, there are refill stations throughout the park, so you can bring your favorite reusable bottle and save space in your pack.
– A day full of exploring will leave even the most experienced hikers’ stomachs grumbling, and the best way to keep your energy up is to eat healthy snacks throughout the day. Sliced veggies, granola bars and trail mix are all great portable munchies that you can eat on-the-go during your visit. Don’t forget to put all trash in the appropriate receptacles!
– Even if it isn’t bright and sunny outside, sunscreen is a must. The giant sequoias provide some shade, but not enough to leave the sunscreen at home. Bringing additional protection with you, like a hat or visor, and reapplying sunscreen every hour or so will help prevent painful sunburns.
– You won’t want to miss capturing all of the amazing magnificence of Sequoia National Park. Whether photography is your favorite hobby or Instagram is more your style, there are plenty of picture-worthy attractions (10 of which are featured here). Don’t forget to use the hashtag #SequoiaShuttle when you share them online!
– A day spent exploring the park means spending a lot of time on your feet. Don’t rush out and purchase new hiking boots for a day trip, but do wear supportive athletic shoes that won’t cause you any unnecessary pain.
– You probably won’t need it, but on the off chance that you do, a first-aid kit can really come in handy. Band aids, pain relievers and some antiseptic wipes would make the perfect small kit, and keeping it with you will prevent something like a blister from messing up your day.
– Even if you check the weather before you leave, it’s a good idea to have some layers that you can put on and take off throughout the day. Due to the high elevation, conditions can change quickly and unexpectedly. It’s better to have a jacket and not need it than to be cold all day.
– Instead of eating or buying food in the park, pack a lunch with a sandwich and sports drink so that you can have a picnic. If there’s no room for a blanket in your backpack, there are picnic tables at multiple easily-accessible spots in the park. Remember, bears get hungry, too, so proper storage and disposal of food is important.
– While these are not a necessity, binoculars can greatly improve your hiking experience because they will let you see the glory of your surroundings in greater detail. You especially will not want to miss the wildlife, some of which are small (like the acorn woodpecker and grey fox), and others better viewed at a distance (like the bobcat and black bear).
