Sequoia was the second national park designated in this country, established in 1890. Sequoia National Park boasts spectacular scenery, giant sequoias and is far less crowded than Yosemite. Located in east-central California, Sequoia National Park is a long day trip from either Los Angeles or San Francisco.

Sequoia National Park is open year round, and is seldom crowded, receiving only about one-third of the visitors that threaten to overrun nearby Yosemite. Most weekends, even in mid-summer, you can find hotel rooms available, sometimes the same day. However, the lower parts of Kings Canyon close from November 1 through mid-May. Winter visitors will find the giant sequoias decked out in snow, but will miss the opportunity to see the magnificent Kings Canyon.

If you are taking a SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK VACATION with kids keep these tips in mind for kid fun!

• A magnifying glass. Sure, there are lots of big things here . . . but there's a lot of small stuff, too. A magnifying glass can help you see some of the smaller things in the park.
  
  
• A backpack. It's great for carrying your stuff with you so your hands are free.
  
  
• Bug spray. Some of the visitors in our park are a bit too friendly. So keep bugs away with some bug spray.
  
  
• A disposable camera. You never know what you might see when you are here - so be sure you're ready to grab the perfect picture.
  

Sequoia is the protectorate of GIANTS. Here you will find the tallest mountain in the U.S. (Mt. Whitney), the tallest trees in the U.S. (the Sequoia) and a grand canyon. Kids will not be the only ones stunned by the majesty found here.

To plan your SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK VACATION and to make reservations log on to: www.nationalparkreservations.com or call toll free: 1-866-875-8456.