Best in Summer: Kings Canyon

Magnificent Kings Canyon is only open in the summer, from mid-May through mid-November. It's part of Sequoia-Kings Canyon National Park, which boasts spectacular scenery and the biggest giant sequoias - and is far less crowded than Yosemite. Located in east-central California, Sequoia National Park can be seen in a long day trip from either Los Angeles or San Francisco, but plan to stay a little longer to take it all in.

More: Visiting Sequoia and Kings Canyon | Photo Tour | Where to Stay