Hidden California National Park Site Reopens After Years

The Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are great alternatives to Yosemite National Park that are less busy. They are in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains. Also, Crystal Cave, one of the best parts of Sequoia National Park, is now open to tourists again. Crystal Cave has been closed for years, first because of damage from a fire in 2021 and then because of bad winter weather in 2023. But now, after repairs and renovations, this beautiful marble cave can be enjoyed by everyone again. From May 23, 2025, to September 7, 2025, guided trips will be available.

Crystal Cave was found in 1918, which is 28 years after Sequoia National Park opened. However, the cave has been there for millions of years. On the 50-minute tour, you’ll see some beautiful stalagmites and stalactites in the cave’s biggest rooms. The name “Crystal Cave” comes from the sparkling mineral formations that you’ll see. You will discover the cave’s environment and learn how to protect it along the way. Executive Director of Sequoia Parks Conservancy Savannah Boiano told Sunset, “This cave is home to unique species, and we hope to inspire our visitors to take action to protect this valuable underground environment.”

To get to the cave opening, there is a half-mile trail. Inside the cave, it’s another half-mile back and forth. You will have to walk up and down steep stairs and on uneven ground. You will also be in small places. This tour is not recommended for people who are sick or too young or old to walk easily on their own. It is always 50 degrees Fahrenheit inside the cave, so bring a small jacket or sweater with you.

What you need to know before going to Sequoia National Park’s Crystal Cave

You can only get tickets for Crystal Cave tours online, and you have to book them at least 36 hours ahead of time. You can’t get them at the cave itself. Don’t wait to buy your tickets—they will likely sell out quickly in July and August, when the park is busiest. It costs $21.20 for adults to get in and $11 for kids 10 and smaller. There is a fee for the tour that is different from the fee to enter the national park. People who are going with kids should know that strollers and baby backpacks are not allowed.

Allow at least an hour to make the drive from the Foothills Visitor Center near the Ash Mountain entrance to Sequoia National Park to the cave. The road there has many turns and twists. You won’t be able to drive on this road if your car is longer than 22 feet.

There are two different national parks right next to each other, but if you buy a ticket for one, you can also use it for the other. While you’re in the area, you should check out Sequoia National Park’s tall trees. In the park’s Giant Forest, you can find General Sherman at the Congress Trail, which is the world’s largest living tree (the world’s tallest tree is in California’s Redwood National Park, but visitors aren’t allowed there). You should also visit Kings Canyon National Park, which is close by. It has huge trees and stunning views of the mountains.