Extreme elevation changes over short distances mean park roads are steep, narrow, and winding — but filled with breathtaking vistas. So take your time! A few rules of the road greatly increase your chances of a safe and enjoyable drive.

DOWNSHIFT — When going downhill, put the gearshift in 1, 2, or L. The engine gets louder as it slows you down, but it will save your brakes from burning out.

LET OTHERS PASS — Slower vehicles MUST use paved turnouts to let traffic pass.

PREVENT CAR FIRES — Hot brakes and mufflers start fires in dry grass. Don't stop in grassy areas. Use paved turnouts only.

OBSERVE LENGTH ADVISORY — The 16 miles of road from Ash Mountain to Giant Forest includes 130 curves and 12 switchbacks. There is a vehicle-length advisory for the 12 steepest miles within that stretch. From Potwisha Campground to the Giant Forest Museum, the advised maximum vehicle length is 22 feet (6.7 m). The alternative: take Highway 180 from Fresno to Grant Grove, then turn south on the Generals Highway.

MAXIMUM VEHICLE LENGTH — Legal length limits on the Generals Highway are 40 feet (12 m) for single vehicles or 50 feet (15 m) for vehicles plus a towed unit. If you are towing a smaller vehicle, consider camping in the foothills and using the smaller car to explore.

MOTORCYCLES — Avoid the oil buildup in the middle of uphill lanes.

STAY ON PAVEMENT — Park and travel on pavement only.

GAS UP OUTSIDE THE PARKS — Gasoline is not sold within park boundaries. Be sure to fill up in one of the towns near the park entrance OR at one of three locations in the national forest bordering part of the park: year-round at Hume Lake (near Grant Grove), and late spring into fall at Stony Creek (between Giant Forest and Grant Grove) or Kings Canyon Lodge (between Grant Grove and Cedar Grove).

BICYCLES — Ride only on roads (not trails), single file with traffic, and wear light colors after dark. People under 18 must wear a helmet.

CELL PHONES — Service is poor to non-existent because of the great distance to cell towers and the rugged terrain. Note where pay phones are available or ask a ranger.

MORE INFORMATION — Call the park for the latest on road conditions: 1-559-565-3341, then press 9 and then 4.