During Winter and Spring you can find, but should not count on, water in the shallow potholes. Bring a baggie to scoop it out or a filter pump. Hiking in this area is not for those with fears of heights. The trails are often across off camber slick rock. Additionally, there are steep hands and feet scrambles and ladders to get your attention. A light pack load is a must. After rains erase the trail, directions can be difficult to follow as cairns are often farther apart than line of sight. Having said all that, it is a fascinating landscape with very few people to disturb the views.

One of the best spots in the park to locate black bears. Arrive around sunrise with a telephoto lens (minimum 200mm) to capture a memory, or just stand there and marvel at these wonderful creatures.

Since "skull rock" is immediately off the main drag, it makes for an excellent place to practice night photography and light painting.

Plan to visit this touristy spot at sunrise or around sunset to avoid the crowds. The trail to the General Sherman also connects to the very popular Congress trail, another Sequoia must do.

While Jumbo rocks has excellent rock formations for night photography and light painting, the large size of the campground and more festive nature make night shooting difficult. Check out Belle campground with its small size and quiet location, you can shoot all night without disturbing anyone.