Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks are two of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the United States. Both are home to stunning landscapes and unique geological features that will leave you breathless. But which one is worth your time and money? In this article, we’ll compare the two parks and help you decide which one is the best fit for your next outdoor adventure.
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is a land of fire and ice, where you can witness the birth of new land and the slow destruction of old landscapes. This park is home to Kīlauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, and Mauna Loa, the world’s largest shield volcano. Here, you can hike through volcanic craters, see steam vents and lava tubes, and even witness the eruption of Kīlauea.
Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, on the other hand, are a land of giants. These parks are home to the largest trees on earth, the giant sequoias, and some of the deepest canyons in the United States. Here, you can hike through ancient forests, marvel at the towering trees, and explore the rugged terrain of the High Sierra. Whether you’re a nature lover, a hiker, or simply someone who wants to experience the beauty of the great outdoors, these parks have something for everyone.
Hiking Trails in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks are two of the most popular national parks in the United States. Both offer a variety of hiking trails for visitors to explore, but they differ in terms of terrain and difficulty levels.
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is known for its volcanic landscapes and steep hikes. Some of the most popular trails include Kilauea Iki, which leads visitors through a lush rainforest and across a volcanic crater, and the Halemaʻumaʻu Crater Trail, which offers stunning views of the active crater. However, these trails are not for the faint of heart and can be challenging for inexperienced hikers.
Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, on the other hand, offer a wider range of hiking trails that cater to different skill levels. The parks are famous for their giant sequoia trees and offer several easy trails, such as the Congress Trail, which is a 2-mile loop that passes by some of the largest trees in the park. For more experienced hikers, there are also challenging trails such as the Rae Lakes Loop, which is a 40-mile backpacking trip that passes through rugged terrain.
In conclusion, both Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks offer a variety of hiking trails for visitors to explore, but the trails at each park differ in terms of difficulty levels and terrain. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a leisurely walk, these parks have something to offer for everyone.
Most Popular Hiking Trails in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
| Name | Length | Elevation | Type | Difficulty | Visitor Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kilauea Iki Trail and Crater Rim Trail | 4828.02 | 209.7024 | Moderate | loop | 4.5 |
| Kalapana Lava Viewing | 15288.73 | 196.9008 | Easy | out and back | 4.5 |
| Pu’u Huluhulu via Napau Crater Trail | 4023.35 | 94.7928 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
| Halema���uma���u Steam Bluff and Sulfur Banks | 2092.142 | 24.9936 | Easy | loop | 4 |
| Puu Loa Petroglyphs Trail | 1931.208 | 25.908 | Moderate | out and back | 4 |
| Mauna Loa via Observatory Trail and Summit Trail | 20760.486 | 905.8656 | Very Hard | out and back | 4.5 |
| Devastation Trail to Puu Puai Overlook | 1609.34 | 37.7952 | Easy | out and back | 3.5 |
| End of Chain of Craters Road Trail to Lava Viewing | 16576.202 | 130.7592 | Moderate | out and back | 4 |
| Sandalwood (Iliahi) Trail | 1931.208 | 13.716 | Moderate | loop | 4 |
| Halema’uma’u Trail | 2735.878 | 130.7592 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
Most Popular Hiking Trails in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
| Name | Length | Elevation | Type | Difficulty | Visitor Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moro Rock Trail | 643.736 | 56.9976 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
| Tokopah Falls via Tokopah Valley Trail | 6437.36 | 194.7672 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
| Heather Lake, Emerald Lake, and Pear Lake Trail via Watchtower and Pear Lake Trails | 18990.212 | 887.8824 | Hard | out and back | 5 |
| General Sherman Tree Trail | 1287.472 | 46.9392 | Easy | out and back | 4.5 |
| Marble Falls Trail | 11909.116 | 495.9096 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
| Congress Trail | 5149.888 | 151.7904 | Easy | loop | 4.5 |
| Alta Peak Trail | 23979.166 | 1238.7072 | Very Hard | out and back | 4.5 |
| Mineral King to Eagle Lake Trail | 10460.71 | 674.8272 | Moderate | out and back | 5 |
| Big Trees Trail | 2092.142 | 36.8808 | Easy | loop | 4.5 |
| Giant Forest Loop Trail | 11265.38 | 390.7536 | Easy | loop | 5 |
Wildlife in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks are both known for their diverse wildlife. While both parks offer unique habitats for a variety of species, they also have many differences.
At Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, visitors can see a variety of endemic species, including the nēnē goose, Hawaiian hawk, and the Hawaiian hoary bat. The park is also home to several species of native plants such as the ʻōhiʻa lehua and the koa tree. In addition, the park’s active volcanic activity creates unique habitats for unique species of mammals, reptiles and birds not found elsewhere.
Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, on the other hand, are home to a variety of large mammals such as black bears, mountain lions, and bighorn sheep. Visitors can also see a variety of bird species, including the Steller’s jay, the white-headed woodpecker, and the Western Tanager. The parks are also famous for their giant sequoia trees, which can reach heights of over 300 feet. With over 1,400 plant species, Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks are a botanical paradise.
In conclusion, both Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks offer unique wildlife experiences. While one park is known for its endemic species and active volcanic activity, the other is known for its giant trees and large mammals. Regardless of which park you visit, you are sure to be amazed by the diversity of wildlife that can be found.
Below are lists of the most commonly spotted wildlife at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks. However, you can see a full list of wildlife at each national park here.
Birds
| Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park | Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks |
|---|---|
| Peregrine Falcon | Peregrine Falcon |
| Canada Goose | Northern Harrier |
| Great Blue Heron | Sharp-Shinned Hawk |
| Rock Pigeon | Osprey |
| House Sparrow | Tree Swallow |
| Northern Mockingbird | Mallard |
| Black-Crowned Night-Heron | Canada Goose |
| Wild Turkey | Lincoln’s Sparrow |
| Barn Owl | Ruby-Crowned Kinglet |
| Cattle Egret | American Robin |
| Sanderling | Great Horned Owl |
| Ring-Necked Pheasant | Red-Tailed Hawk |
| Chukar | Northern Flicker |
| Ruddy Turnstone | Merlin |
| Northern Cardinal | Barn Swallow |
| California Quail | Savannah Sparrow |
| Great Blue Heron | |
| Hermit Thrush | |
| American Kestrel | |
| Bald Eagle | |
| Song Sparrow | |
| European Starling | |
| Northern Pintail | |
| Green-Winged Teal | |
| American Pipit |
Mammals
| Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park | Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks |
|---|---|
| House Mouse | Coyote |
| Norway Rat | American Beaver |
| ‘Iole | Muskrat |
| Domestic Cattle | Big Brown Bat |
| Feral Hog | Bobcat |
| Striped Skunk | |
| Little Brown Bat | |
| Deer Mouse | |
| Raccoon | |
| Black Bear | |
| Porcupine | |
| Silver-Haired Bat | |
| Hoary Bat | |
| Red Fox | |
| Long-Tailed Weasel | |
| House Mouse | |
| Mountain Lion | |
| Mink | |
| Mule Deer | |
| Gray Fox | |
| Wolf | |
| Long-Legged Myotis | |
| Long-Eared Myotis | |
| Badger | |
| Ermine |
Amphibians
| Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park | Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks |
|---|---|
| Bullfrog | Bullfrog |
Insects
| Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park | Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks |
|---|---|
| Painted Lady | |
| Monarch Butterfly | |
| American Painted Lady | |
| Red Admiral | |
| Cabbage White | |
| Honey Bee |
Fish
| Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park | Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks |
|---|---|
| Rainbow Trout | |
| Brook Trout Charr Salter | |
| Brown Trout | |
| Green Sunfish | |
| Golden Shiner | |
| European Carp | |
| Black Bullhead | |
| Brown Bullhead | |
| Goldfish | |
| Smallmouth Bass |
Reptiles
| Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park | Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks |
|---|---|
| Gopher Snake | |
| Western Terrestrial Garter Snake | |
| Racer | |
| Ring-Necked Snake | |
| Sagebrush Lizard | |
| Common Garter Snake | |
| Common Kingsnake | |
| Rubber Boa | |
| Nightsnake | |
| Southwestern Black-Headed Snake | |
| Western Whiptail | |
| Western Skink | |
| Long-Nosed Snake | |
| Western Fence Lizard |
Beautiful Landscapes in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is known for the two active Shield Volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Kilauea, that offer visitors a once-in-a-lifetime experience of observing volcanic activity, including glowing lava lakes, steam vents, and volcanic eruptions. The park also boasts other natural wonders including lush rainforests, towering cinder cones, and deep valleys.
Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, located in California, are famous for their giant sequoia trees, the largest living things on Earth. Visitors can explore the parks’ vast wilderness, including rugged canyons, rolling meadows, and soaring peaks. A highlight of the parks is the General Sherman Tree, the largest living tree in the world, which stands at 275 feet tall and over 36 feet in diameter. Also, visitors can take scenic drives and hike through the parks to experience breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada mountains and the Kings Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in North America.
Things To-Do and Activities in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks are two of the most popular parks in the United States.
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is located on the Big Island of Hawaii, and is renowned for its active volcanoes, including Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. Visitors can view the volcanic landscapes, hike through lush rainforests, and see rare Hawaiian flora and fauna. Some popular activities include exploring the park’s scenic drives, visiting the Jaggar Museum, and joining a ranger-led program.
Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, on the other hand, are located in the Sierra Nevada Range in California and are known for their towering sequoia trees, including General Sherman, the largest tree in the world. Visitors can also enjoy scenic drives, such as the Generals Highway, and take in breathtaking views of the mountains, valleys, and rivers. Other popular activities include exploring the parks’ many caves, such as Crystal Cave, and visiting the General Sherman Tree, which is the main attraction of the park.
Both parks offer a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors, with a wide range of outdoor recreation and educational opportunities. Whether you’re interested in exploring volcanic landscapes or towering trees, both Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks have something for everyone.
Best Time to Visit Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks are two popular destinations in the United States, each offering unique experiences for visitors. The seasonal weather at each park has a significant impact on the best time of year to visit.
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is located on the Big Island of Hawaii and has a tropical climate with consistent temperatures throughout the year. The park experiences high levels of rainfall, particularly in the winter months, which can make hiking and exploring difficult. The best time to visit is during the drier months of April through October, when the weather is warm and sunny.
Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, on the other hand, are located in California and have a Mediterranean climate. The parks receive most of their rainfall during the winter months, with snow falling at higher elevations. The summer months are dry and warm, with temperatures ranging from the high 70s to low 80s. The best time to visit is during the summer months, when the weather is ideal for hiking and exploring.
In conclusion, when deciding between Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, it is important to consider the seasonal weather patterns. Each park has its own unique climate and the best time to visit will depend on what type of weather and outdoor activities you prefer.
Family Friendliness of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks are two of the most popular National Parks in the United States. Both parks offer great opportunities for families to explore and learn about nature, but they are quite different in terms of the type of activities they offer.
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is a great place to visit with children because it offers a unique opportunity to see live volcanic activity. Children will love learning about the different types of volcanic activity and how they form and change the landscape. There are also many guided walks and hikes that are suitable for families, as well as picnic areas, campsites, and other amenities.
Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, on the other hand, offer a more traditional outdoor experience. The parks are home to some of the largest trees in the world and children will love learning about these giant specimens and exploring the forest. There are also a number of family-friendly hikes, as well as picnic areas, campsites, and other amenities.
In terms of which park is better for families, it really depends on what type of experience you are looking for. If you want a unique and educational experience that combines science and nature, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is a great choice. However, if you are looking for a more traditional outdoor experience, Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks may be a better option. Both parks have a lot to offer families and it really comes down to personal preference.