John Muir's Sierra Nevada
United States
What the canyonlands were to Edward Abbey, the Sierras were to John Muir, the founder of the Sierra Club drove 260 miles of road through three national parks from north to south. Big trees, big cliffs, big waterfalls, and the dramatic descent into Kings Canyon on the alpine Scenic Byway.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Yosemite Valley
El Capitan, Half Dome, Bridalveil Fall. Muir called it the grandest temple of Nature. Arrive at dawn before the valley crowds arrive.
- Tunnel View
The classic panorama framing El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall in a single sweep. Ansel Adams photographed it in every season and light.
- Mariposa Grove
500 giant sequoias including the 2700-year-old Grizzly Giant. The largest living things on Earth by volume, a grove that silences every visitor.
- General Grant Grove
The General Grant Tree, third-largest organism on Earth by volume, was named the Nation's Christmas Tree by President Coolidge in 1926.
- Kings Canyon
Highway 180 drops 1500m into Kings Canyon over 50km, a gorge deeper than the Grand Canyon, narrow and almost entirely free of crowds.
- General Sherman Tree
Earth's largest living organism by volume at 1487 cubic metres. The road closes in winter; snow chains are mandatory in shoulder seasons.
Where to Eat
- The Ahwahnee Dining RoomAmerican
An elegant dining experience offering gourmet dishes with stunning views of Yosemite Valley.
- Wawona Hotel Dining RoomAmerican
Historic dining room serving classic American cuisine in a Victorian-era hotel setting.
- Grant Grove RestaurantAmerican
Casual dining spot offering hearty meals near the General Grant Tree in Kings Canyon.
- Cedar Grove Snack BarAmerican
Quick bites and refreshments conveniently located for hikers exploring Kings Canyon.
Things to Do
- Glacier PointScenic Viewpoint
Offers panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra.
- Mist TrailHike
A popular trail leading to Vernal and Nevada Falls, with misty paths and stunning waterfalls.
- Mariposa Grove of Giant SequoiasNature
Home to over 500 mature giant sequoias, including the famous Grizzly Giant.
- Moro RockScenic Viewpoint
A granite dome offering a steep climb with rewarding views of the Great Western Divide.
Travel advisory
Key passes including Tioga Pass in Yosemite typically close from November through late May due to snow, making the full north-to-south route a summer and early-fall drive only. Tioga Road has steep grades and sharp curves; carry chains if traveling in spring or fall and check NPS road status before departure.