Montecito Sequoia Lodge

We stayed at Montecito-Sequoia Lodge for the first time during the second week of October. Normally a 4-season resort, the Lodge has had to shut down for the winter season since a weather event (in 2023, I think) took out the bridge over the creek that is the direct route to the property entrance. The "Montecito Detour" is a real adventure on its own, over winding dirt roads that add an extra 15 mins. or so to our 4 -hour plus drive. Fortunately, the detour is very well described in a pre-arrival email and the signage was excellent. The resort was scheduled to close for the season that weekend, so we expected it to be fairly quiet. Not so! It was fully booked with couples and family groups (including out-of-country guests) enjoying it as a base for day hikes into the Sequoia National Park, and even a wedding party on Thursday evening! I cannot overstate what a wonderful experience we had during our 2-night, 3-day stay. The staff is extraordinary: extremely dedicated to this historic property, and very committed to providing the best possible experience for guests. The food was plentiful, healthy and tasty (served buffet style, with snacks, juices and iced tea, and regular and specialty coffees available all day). We stayed in the Main Lodge in a comfortable corner room that is set up for families with a king bed and a bunk bed. There are a variety of accommodations to choose from, from the very rustic to the newer Forest Cabins that are quite posh. Please don't be deterred by the negative reviews about unfortunate cancellations during the early Fall season. The Lodge faces many challenges that are outside its control caused by severe weather and the staffing shortages that have become endemic to the hospitality industry. But, when you're "on campus," the experience cannot be beat! Anyone who has spent any time at a summer camp will be reminded of those wonderful outdoorsy times. We look forward to returning to the Lodge for its Family Camp during Summer 2024.