Visiting Kings Canyon National Park gave us another day among the giant sequoia trees. As we wandered through Kings Canyon National Park, these towering giants reminded me of a song I sang many times as a child in church — Deep and Wide. It begins, “deep and wide, deep and wide, there’s a fountain flowing deep and wide…”
Looking Up
With a second day of feeling wonderfully small among these giants, we continued to slow down and simply look up as sunlight filtered through the towering trunks. In the quiet of the forest, these remarkable trees began to teach us even more.
Deep, Intertwined Roots Provide Strength
Giant sequoias grow in communities, and their roots can spread outward more than 100 feet. As the root systems expand, they intertwine with neighboring trees, creating a network of strength and stability. Together, they help anchor one another against storms and harsh conditions. As the saying goes, they are stronger together. While sequoias do not have extremely deep taproots compared to their height, their roots typically extend several feet into the soil, providing additional stability. Their strength comes from a combination of roots that are both deep and wide — spreading outward and connecting with others.
Lessons From Trees
Standing among these ancient trees, I realized this experience was more than just another scenic stop. Creation has a way of slowing us down long enough to notice deeper truths. As we learned about how these sequoias grow and support one another, I began to see a spiritual lesson unfolding right before us.
What lessons can I learn from these trees today? As believers, it is important build relationships, working together in our church and community. This makes us stronger. We have a heavenly father who loves us more than we can imagine. I believe the following verses say it best:
“Can you fathom the mysteries of God?
Can you probe the limits of the Almighty?
They are higher than the heavens above—what can you do?
They are deeper than the depths below—what can you know?
Their measure is longer than the earth and wider than the sea.”
— Job 11:7–9
“I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ.”
— Ephesians 3:17b–18
“Deep and wide, deep and wide — there’s a fountain flowing deep and wide…”
Everywhere I go, I enjoy camping with Jesus — on the road and in life. Enjoy your journey, and feel free to reach out.
Travel Tips For Visiting Kings Canyon National Park
Two National Parks Side by Side
If you are going to visit Kings Canyon National Park, plan to spend at least one whole day. Kings Canyon National Park shares a boundary with Sequoia National Park, but don’t assume these are small destinations. Each park deserves its own day or days to fully appreciate its beauty.
If you visit during the winter months, you may experience smaller crowds, which can make for a peaceful visit. The tradeoff is that some higher elevations and roads may be closed due to snow. Even so, there is still much to see and enjoy.
Both parks feature magnificent giant sequoia trees, but Kings Canyon National Park often feels more densely forested and rugged, offering a slightly different experience.
Hours Open
Kings Canyon National Park is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. (Specific areas and roads may have seasonal closures.)
Things to See in Kings Canyon National Park
The General Grant Tree
Known as the Nation’s Christmas Tree, this is one of the largest trees in the world and a must-see stop.
Big Stump Grove
Visit the famous Mark Twain Stump. You can climb onto this massive 16-foot diameter stump for a memorable photo.
Panoramic Point
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada mountains and Hume Lake.
Kings Canyon Scenic Byway
A stunning drive featuring waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, and unforgettable scenery.