Sequoia National Park - What to Pack - Clothing and Supplies Tips

The largest living things in all the world can be found at Sequoia National Park, where giant sequoia trees that are 10 times as massive as a blue whale rise up into the skies. Visitors to this fantastic national park need to pack carefully, because weather can be unpredictable and hiking paths can be strenuous.

While we don't think of northern California as a rainforest, the Pacific Northwest receives more rainfall than any other part of the continental United States.  Visitors must take every precaution to keep themselves warm and dry in the very likely event of rain.  Bring a good waterproof poncho as your outer layer, a jacket for chilly afternoons, wool long johns and socks to keep your legs and feet warm, and boots that can slosh through mud without getting sucked in or worn out. While the hills of the park aren't as steep as next-door Yosemite, you don't want to bring sneakers or sandals to trek through the forest.

Lots of rain and standing water throughout the park has an unpleasant side effect of spawning lots of mosquitoes.  You won't need to worry about sunscreen in a forest where very little light reaches the ground, but be certain to stock up on bug spray to keep the biting and stinging bugs away.

Depending on how deep you plan to go into the forest, you'll need to take a few supplies with you.  A flashlight is helpful to avoid the large roots poking out of the ground, while a backup supply of batteries will keep it (as well as cameras) running strong.  A few medical supplies, like moleskin for blisters, also can go a long way.

Editor's note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about what to pack for Sequoia National Park.