Skiing and Winter Sports in Sequoia
During the winter, roads are open to Grant Grove and to Giant Forest - Lodgepole but may be closed temporarily for plowing. The Generals Highway between Lodgepole and Grant Grove is kept open as conditions permit; it is usually closed during and after heavy storms. Roads to Cedar Grove in Kings Canyon and Mineral King in Sequoia are closed in winter. Tire chains may be required between October and June and should always be carried. Visitor centers are open daily at Ash Mountain, Grant Grove, and Giant Forest Museum, and Friday through Monday at Lodgepole. Concession facilities are available at Wuksachi, Grant Grove and Lodgepole.
From approximately December to April the park is covered snow four to six feet deep. Winter activities in the Giant Forest area include cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. There are approximately 50 miles of marked cross-country trails. Rental equipment (including snowshoes) and lessons are available for skiers of all ages. For more information on cross-country skiing, sledding or snowshoeing at Wolverton, call (559) 565-3435. Kids can also sled and play in the snow-play areas near Wolverton.
The Sequoia Natural History Association operates the high-country Pear Lake Ski Hut for cross-country skiers and snowshoers. The cabin sleeps 10 people. Use of the facility, open from approximately December 15 to April 15, is by reservation. Reservations are taken by phone beginning November 19th at 8:00 a.m.
The trail to the hut begins at Wolverton and from there it is a strenuous six-mile trek. Cost is $15 per person per night. Contact: SNHA, Attn. Pear Lake, HCR 89, Box 10, Three Rivers, CA 93271; (559) 565-3759. Cooking utensils, a wood pellet-burning heater, propane-operated lanterns and a stove are provided. Guests must bring sleeping bags, food, propane and water purification supplies.
Naturalist programs may be given on weekends during winter. The NPS often conducts evening programs on weekends at Wuksachi Lodge. Check bulletin boards for times and locations.
Park rangers may also offer snowshoe nature walks on weekends, weather conditions permitting, for up to 20-24 people. If you've never tried this activity, it is fun to do. Walks average about two hours and cover one or two miles. Snowshoes are furnished.
Snowplay Areas
Prohibited areas and safety
Snowplay is prohibited in residential areas, the Grant Tree Trail area, the Sherman Tree Road, and other areas as signed. Please be safe and considerate of others as you play in the snow.
Wolverton
7250' elevation. An open area with sledding hills two miles north of the General Sherman Tree. After snowstorms, it may take several hours before plows can get the area open for the day. Cross-country skis and snowshoes are available for rent and snowplay gear is for sale at Wuksachi Lodge.
6600' elevation. Big Stump and Columbine are in the Grant Grove section of Kings Canyon National Park. On nearby National Forest land are the Big Meadows, Quail Flat and Cherry Gap areas. Cross-country skis and snowshoes are available for rent and snowplay gear is for sale at the Grant Grove Market.