Generals Highway, which provides access to the Giant Forest in Sequoia National Park, is expected to be fully open July 1/NPS file

Generals Highway in Sequoia National Park, closed for months due to winter storm damage, is expected to be fully open on July 1.

The iconic road that winds through the western side of the park connects the Foothills and Giant Forest areas of the national park. Road construction is still underway along two sections of the highway, and traffic lights will be used to manage one-lane vehicle travel, the National Park Service says. Visitors are advised that although most park roads are now open, sections damaged by winter storms require caution and reduced speeds until permanent repairs are completed.   

This reopening marks quite an accomplishment for the parks and the Federal Highways Administration, which have jointly worked to restore public access to the most popular destination in Sequoia National Park during the busiest time of year. Although a great milestone, heavy damage from the winter storms still exists throughout the parks. Roads leading to the Cedar Grove area of Kings Canyon National Park and the Mineral King area of Sequoia National Park remain closed due to significant damage both inside and outside the park boundaries. Several campgrounds will remain closed this summer.   

Visitors to the parks should plan ahead and make sure that the areas they hope to see are open and accessible. Information about current conditions and timelines for reopening can be found on the park website.