My Favorite Sequoia National Park Spots for Photos

Planning an elopement or couples session and want something outdoorsy, peaceful, and full of variety, Sequoia is one of the best places you can choose. There are so many amazing Sequoia National Park spots that look completely different from each other. Giant trees, open meadows, rocky overlooks, quiet trails… literally everything.

After shooting here multiple times, I’ve built a list of my go-to locations. Some are iconic, some are super underrated, and some are just random roadside finds that end up being the best photos of the day. If you’re trying to pick the right Sequoia National Park spots for your session, these are my favorites and why I love them!

Two people, one in a suit and one in a wedding dress, walk hand in hand on a path through a forest of tall trees at sunset. Sequoia National Park Spots for Photos

Congress Trail

Congress Trail is one of the most classic Sequoia National Park spots for a reason. The sequoias here are massive, the light filters beautifully through the canopy, and you don’t have to walk far to get that “wow, nature is crazy” backdrop. It’s ideal for couples who want dramatic scale, quiet forest pockets, and easy access all wrapped into one location. Whether you’re posing between the trunks or wandering the trail, every angle photographs beautifully.

A person in white stands among giant sequoia trees in a forest, highlighting the massive size of the tree trunks.

A bride and groom stand embraced in a forest clearing with tall trees and purple wildflowers, as the sun sets in the background at a Sequoia National Park Spots for Photos

The Parker Group

This cluster of huge sequoias is one of the easiest places to shoot—and yet still feels completely magical. The trees rise straight up around you, creating a natural cathedral that works for wide portraits, detail shots, and everything in between. It’s also one of the few spots that photographs well at any time of day thanks to the consistent shade and warm, diffused light. Quick, dramatic, and breathtaking with zero effort.

Several people stand at the base of giant sequoia trees in a forest, emphasizing the immense size of the trees compared to the humans.

Several people stand at the base of giant sequoia trees in a forest, emphasizing the immense size of the trees compared to the humans.
Several people stand at the base of giant sequoia trees in a forest, emphasizing the immense size of the trees compared to the humans.

Tunnel Log

Tunnel Log is one of those fun, iconic Sequoia experiences everyone remembers. Walking through a fallen giant instantly gives your gallery personality, and the surrounding forest offers plenty of extra little corners for portraits. It’s easy to get to, super unique, and always a hit—especially for couples who want something playful and different.

A couple holding hands walks under a fallen, hollowed-out tree trunk arching over a paved path in a forest.
A couple holding hands walks under a fallen, hollowed-out tree trunk arching over a paved path in a forest.

A couple holding hands walks under a fallen, hollowed-out tree trunk arching over a paved path in a forest.

Root Ball

One of the most unexpected Sequoia National Park spots, Root Ball feels like a piece of natural sculpture. The giant, twisted root system creates a moody, textured backdrop that looks incredible in photos. It’s perfect if you want something artsy, editorial, or a little more dramatic than the classic big-tree look.

A bride and groom stand together in front of a large, intricate tree root system in a forest setting at a Sequoia National Park Spots for Photos
A bride and groom stand together in front of a large, intricate tree root system in a forest setting at a Sequoia National Park Spots for Photos

A bride and groom stand together in front of a large, intricate tree root system in a forest setting at a Sequoia National Park Spots for Photos

A bride and groom stand together in front of a large, intricate tree root system in a forest setting at a Sequoia National Park Spots for Photos
A bride and groom stand together in front of a large, intricate tree root system in a forest setting at a Sequoia National Park Spots for Photos

Beetle Rock

If you want sunset magic, Beetle Rock is the spot. This wide, open overlook gives you golden light, views that stretch for miles, and plenty of room to roam. Because it’s so accessible, it’s an ideal last stop of the day—minimal walking with maximum payoff. Whether you’re dancing on the rock or cuddling up as the sun drops, this spot never disappoints.

A couple stands close together on a rocky landscape with mountains and trees in the background under a partly cloudy sky.
A couple stands close together on a rocky landscape with mountains and trees in the background under a partly cloudy sky.

A woman in a light dress embraces a man in a suit from behind as they stand outdoors with mountains and trees in the background at sunset.

Crescent Meadow

Crescent Meadow brings a completely different vibe to your Sequoia gallery. Instead of giant trunks and rugged overlooks, you get soft greenery, open fields, and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s perfect for couples who want gentle, natural light and a more romantic, laid-back feel. The meadows change beautifully throughout the year, so every session looks a little unique.

A couple embraces in a sunlit forest, with one person lifting the other off the ground. Tall trees and dense greenery surround them.

Big Trees Trail

Another classic on the list of Sequoia National Park spots, Big Trees Trail gives you a ton of variety within a small area! The boardwalk photographs beautifully, the pathways are easy and accessible, and there are endless places to stop when the light is perfect. It’s a great choice for couples wanting something timeless and iconic without having to hike!

Two people stand holding hands in front of a massive redwood tree in a forest, looking in opposite directions.
Two people stand holding hands in front of a massive redwood tree in a forest, looking in opposite directions.
Two people stand holding hands in front of a massive redwood tree in a forest, looking in opposite directions.
Two people stand holding hands in front of a massive redwood tree in a forest, looking in opposite directions.

Grant Grove

Technically located just over the line in Kings Canyon, Grant Grove still makes my list because it’s that good. Home to some of the biggest and prettiest sequoias in the region, this area feels grand while still offering quieter corners away from crowds. The light here is especially beautiful in the morning, making it one of my favorite add-on locations.

A couple stands close together outdoors near a wooden fence, with tall trees and sunlight in the background; the woman is wearing a long red dress.
A couple stands close together outdoors near a wooden fence, with tall trees and sunlight in the background; the woman is wearing a long red dress.
A couple stands close together outdoors near a wooden fence, with tall trees and sunlight in the background; the woman is wearing a long red dress.
A couple stands close together outdoors near a wooden fence, with tall trees and sunlight in the background; the woman is wearing a long red dress.
A couple stands close together outdoors near a wooden fence, with tall trees and sunlight in the background; the woman is wearing a long red dress.

Giant Forest Museum Area

This spot gives you access to multiple trails, open clearings, and tons of mini pockets with beautiful filtered light. It’s ideal for couples who want versatility without trekking all over the park. You can get multiple “looks” in one stop, from towering trees to soft forest paths, which is why I love it for both elopements and shorter sessions!

The Random Turn-Offs

Truly: some of the best Sequoia National Park spots aren’t official locations at all. They’re the random turn-offs with that perfect sunbeam or that little stretch of quiet forest no one else notices. I’m always scanning for good light while we drive, and those spontaneous stops almost always become the favorite images of the day!!

Two people stand in the hollow trunk of a large sequoia tree surrounded by tall trees and patches of snow at a Sequoia National Park Spots for Photos
Two people stand in the hollow trunk of a large sequoia tree surrounded by tall trees and patches of snow at a Sequoia National Park Spots for Photos

Two people stand in the hollow trunk of a large sequoia tree surrounded by tall trees and patches of snow at a Sequoia National Park Spots for Photos

Lost Grove Turnout

Lost Grove Turnout is super underrated and usually way less busy than the main areas. It has wide open space, gorgeous trees, and a calm atmosphere that lets couples relax into the moment. If you want something easy, beautiful, and crowd-free, this one is always worth a stop.

A couple stands facing each other inside the hollow of a large tree, dressed in formal attire.

A couple stands facing each other inside the hollow of a large tree, dressed in formal attire.
A couple stands facing each other inside the hollow of a large tree, dressed in formal attire.

A couple stands facing each other inside the hollow of a large tree, dressed in formal attire.

General Sherman Trail

Home to the largest tree in the world, this trail is iconic for a reason. While the main viewpoint can get crowded, there are several beautiful corners along the trail where the scale of the trees is still unreal—but without all the foot traffic. It’s a must-see and a great option if you want at least one “we were really in Sequoia” moment in your gallery!!

Two people stand side by side with arms around each other, facing a forest with tall trees and sunlight streaming through for Sequoia National Park Spots for Photos
Two people stand side by side with arms around each other, facing a forest with tall trees and sunlight streaming through for Sequoia National Park Spots for Photos
Two people stand side by side with arms around each other, facing a forest with tall trees and sunlight streaming through for Sequoia National Park Spots for Photos
A man and a woman stand holding hands in front of a giant sequoia tree in a forest, both looking away from each other. Sequoia National Park Spots for Photos
A man and a woman stand holding hands in front of a giant sequoia tree in a forest, both looking away from each other. Sequoia National Park Spots for Photos

Big Stump Trail

Big Stump Trail gives you an entirely different aesthetic—tall grasses, old stumps, raw textures, and a rugged, rustic vibe. It’s one of the best Sequoia National Park spots if you want photos that feel nostalgic, earthy, and a little more off the beaten path. In golden light, this trail becomes magic!!

A bride and groom in wedding attire stand in front of a large tree in a forest, with sunlight filtering through the trees. Sequoia National Park Spots for Photos
A bride and groom in wedding attire stand in front of a large tree in a forest, with sunlight filtering through the trees. Sequoia National Park Spots for Photos
A bride and groom in wedding attire stand in front of a large tree in a forest, with sunlight filtering through the trees. Sequoia National Park Spots for Photos
A bride and groom in wedding attire stand in front of a large tree in a forest, with sunlight filtering through the trees. Sequoia National Park Spots for Photos
A bride and groom in wedding attire stand in front of a large tree in a forest, with sunlight filtering through the trees. Sequoia National Park Spots for Photos

Why I Love These Sequoia National Park Spots

Sequoia is one of the easiest national parks to shoot in because everything is close together and super accessible. You can get a full variety of scenery! Think: giant trees, forest paths, meadows, and rocky overlooks—without long hikes or tight timelines. It photographs beautifully in every season, and every session ends up feeling relaxed, intentional, and full of variety. If you want a location that does most of the work for you… this is it!!

A bride and groom stand together at the base of giant sequoia trees in a forest, with sunlight filtering through the tall trunks. Sequoia National Park Spots for Photos

Planning a Session or Elopement in Sequoia National Park?

If you’re dreaming of photos surrounded by giant trees, glowing meadows, and peaceful forest views, I’d love to help you plan the perfect experience. Whether you already know exactly which Sequoia National Park spots you love or you’re starting from scratch, I’ll help guide you through the best locations, ideal lighting, and the easiest timeline for a relaxed, intentional day!

From permits and park logistics to choosing outfits that photograph beautifully among the sequoias, I make the planning process seamless so you can simply show up and enjoy the moment. Every session is designed around what feels like “you,” and Sequoia is truly one of the best places to create a gallery that feels natural, emotional, and full of variety.

So, If you’re ready to start planning your Sequoia engagement session or elopement, I’m here to help every step of the way. See more of my work here and contact me here — let’s start dreaming up your day!


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