A naturist and historian for the National Parks Service offers a lively history of the giant sequoias of California and the love of nature they inspired. Former park ranger William C. Tweed takes readers on a tour of some of the world’s largest and oldest trees in a narrative that travels deep into the Sierra Nevada mountains, across the American West, and all the way to New Zealand. Along the way, he explores the American public's evolving relationship with sequoias, also known simply and affectionately as Big Trees. It’s no surprise that the sequoia groves of Yosemite and Calaveras were early tourist destinations. The species was the embodiment of California's superlative appeal. These giant redwoods were so beloved that special protections efforts sprang up to protect them from logging interests—and so began the notion of National Parks. Later, as science evolved to consider landscapes more holistically, sequoias once again played a major role in shaping this new perspective. Featuring a fascinating cast of adventurers, researchers, politicians, and environmentalists, King Sequoia reveals how one tree species transformed Americans' connection to the natural world.

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, situated in California's rugged Sierra Nevada, boast some of the most spectacular landscapes on the continent: towering groves of giant sequoia trees, crystalline trout rivers, jagged peaks and alpine meadows, and Mount Whitney, the highest mountain in the lower 48.

Frommer's Puts the Parks in Your Pocket. All the up-to-date practical information and candid insider advice you need to have the perfect park vacation...in an easy-to-carry size?and at an unbeatable price! Your Complete Guide to Yosemite and Sequoia/Kings Canyon National Parks, with: Spectacular natural wonders, from majestic Yosemite Falls to Kings Canyon's towering sequoias Great places to stay, from luxury park lodges to family-friendly motels?plus a complete campground guide for each park A fully illustrated nature guide to help you spot and identify local wildlife, birds, trees, wildflowers, and more Descriptions of the best hikes, from easy wilderness strolls and ranger-led walks to overnight backcountry adventures Where to eat and stock up on supplies?both in the parks and in the gateway towns Detailed, accurate park and trail maps

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks must be experienced on foot- only then can you come face-to-face with the grandeur of the incredible scenery. Day Hikes in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks is a clear, concise guide to 61 of the most rewarding day hikes in these two parks. (The parks are adjacent without a noticeable boundary between them.) These hikes will introduce you to the giant sequoias, the world's largest living organisms, and some of the most impressive canyons, rock formations, and panoramic overlooks found anywhere. Highlights include valleys with towering canyon walls and granite monoliths, verdant alpine meadows fringed with giant sequoias, cascading creeks and waterfalls, and phenomenal views. Hikes range from easy to moderately strenuous, accommodating every level of experience. Each hike includes a summary of its highlights, a map, and clear driving and hiking directions.