We came in from the south on 198 and left on the northwest 180 route so feel like we really got to see the Generals Highway. The turns and twists and construction on the southern half were tedious, but the scenery wonderful. I would do it again in a minute.
Make sure your brakes and engine braking are working before tackling this one. There's lots of climbing and downhills as you cross watersheds. Not many viewpoints, but the ones that exist are good. Be sure to get gas on your way up to the parks--there is none in the parks and the mountains eat gas! We did not drive the southern half of Sequoia, but we understand that is a very challenging road they are trying to modernize, so be prepared for construction when the weather permits.
There is a bit of dusty construction and sitting in the car waiting to get up the mountain on the one-lane part of the road but a stop at Hospital Rock and a quick hike down to the river make it all worth while. Bring your camera and hiking shoes and have fun climbing the rocks to get pictures of beautiful pools.
After paying $10 to go through the gate we discovered that the road was all torn up and barely passable in places.
It was under repair from what I understand in the summer. While we were there only parts were under construction but it did not hamper our drive at all. You would be a fool to try to drive up here in the high tourist season. The roads are narrow and to get anywhere you have to drive 45+ to fast for these roads in my opinion. The turnouts are well planned and we enjoyed our drive in late September after the crowds had thinned.
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