Before 6am, we had our first glimpse of Sequoia National Park. With the sun barely peaking over the towering mountains and not another car in sight, the park seemed to offer the perfect peaceful escape that we were hoping to enjoy.

I won't say much about the drive yet...it's almost exercise time, so that will have to wait for another day :) But know that we climed about 4000 feet on our hour drive to our first stop!





Our first hike would be the General Sherman Trail, the highlight of which is, *surprise* the General Sherman Tree...the largest living single organism (by volume) on earth!!! It was only an hour round trip, but the hundred stairs on the paved path were not mentioned online, so our arms were quite tired after portaging the stroller with our gear and our boy.




We constantly looked for ways to make our trip more adventurous for Sam...



We definately beat the crowds! Usually this place is swarming with tourists, but this morning, it was only us, the wildlife and the trees...Another family was about 10 minutes behind us, but they were also very quiet and respectful of their surroundings so it was nice...


The wild life in the park is extremely use to people...this deer was having a little breakfast as we approached and continued to eat as we appreciated God's creations...



In a great big forest full of great big trees, can you spot the little sweetie pie?






So, how big are the pine cones in this area where the trees grow so large??? Pretty big!