Kings Canyon National Park: Discover America's Deepest Sierra Canyon
Experience Kings Canyon with curated itineraries. Hike through deep granite canyons, ancient sequoia groves, and pristine High Sierra wilderness.
Kings Canyon plunges 8,000 feet from Spanish Mountain to the Kings River below—making it one of North America’s deepest canyons, exceeding even the Grand Canyon in sheer vertical relief—yet remains a whispered secret among national park enthusiasts. This is Kings Canyon, a magnificent chasm carved by ancient glaciers and the Kings River, lying quietly beside its more famous neighbors, Sequoia and Yosemite. Here, towering granite walls dwarf everything below, giant sequoias reach for the sky, and pristine wilderness stretches as far as the eye can see.
Kings Canyon beckons to those who crave genuine solitude and breathtaking scale without the bustling crowds. Descend the dramatic Kings Canyon Highway, a ribbon of road clinging to granite through 33 switchbacks, to discover Cedar Grove at the canyon floor. Here, monolithic formations rise from the valley, mirroring Yosemite’s grandeur but offering a far more intimate experience. Venture beyond the roads, and 461,901 acres of designated wilderness await, harboring alpine lakes, wildflower meadows, and challenging trails into the remote High Sierra backcountry.
Whether you’re an adventurer seeking uncrowded trails, a photographer chasing dramatic canyon geology and colossal trees, or a family desiring giant sequoia encounters away from summer throngs, Kings Canyon delivers. It’s a sanctuary where nature’s raw power is palpable, where the quiet whispers of the wind through sequoia branches and the roar of a glacial river define the experience, making it a perfect escape for those yearning for spectacular mountain scenery and profound serenity.
Seasonal Weather Guide
Plan your perfect getaway with our detailed seasonal forecast.
Kings Canyon: California’s Deepest Secret
Kings Canyon proudly holds the title for one of North America’s deepest canyons, a geological marvel plunging over 8,000 feet from the lofty heights of Spanish Mountain to the roaring Kings River below. While often overshadowed by Arizona’s Grand Canyon, Kings Canyon actually boasts a greater sheer vertical relief. This immense gorge, carved over millennia by glacial ice and river erosion, reveals 100 million years of Sierra Nevada history in its exposed plutonic rock and polished granite. Despite its impressive scale and dramatic vistas, Kings Canyon remains a relative secret, attracting a fraction of the visitors compared to its more famous national park counterparts.
This anonymity is precisely Kings Canyon’s greatest asset. For those seeking genuine solitude, reflective experiences, and intimate encounters with nature, it offers an unparalleled escape. Unlike the bustling valleys of Yosemite, Cedar Grove at the canyon’s heart provides contemplative moments along river trails and beneath towering cliffs, often with more deer than people as company. This park isn’t just a destination; it’s an invitation to connect deeply with the High Sierra, to explore a landscape of titans and tranquility that feels truly untamed and profoundly peaceful.
Things to Do
Unforgettable experiences await you.
General Grant Tree Trail
Walk a paved 0.5-mile loop through Grant Grove to witness the General Grant Tree, designated 'The Nation's Christmas Tree', and other majestic giant sequoias.
Kings Canyon Scenic Byway (Highway 180)
Drive the dramatic 30-mile winding road from Grant Grove down 4,000 feet into Cedar Grove, offering breathtaking views of towering granite cliffs and the Kings River.
Hiking to Roaring River Falls
Enjoy an easy, paved walk to a powerful, roaring waterfall in Cedar Grove, especially impressive during spring and early summer snowmelt.
Exploring Zumwalt Meadow
Embark on an accessible 1.5-mile loop trail through a picturesque meadow, offering stunning views of the Kings River and surrounding granite monoliths like Grand Sentinel.
The Icons You’ll Want to See
General Grant Grove — Step into a world of giants where the General Grant Tree, “The Nation’s Christmas Tree,” stands as a magnificent sentinel. This 268-foot-tall sequoia, with a 40-foot base diameter, is accessible via an easy 0.5-mile paved loop. Explore nearby titans like the General Lee and Lincoln Tree, and ponder the resilience of these ancient wonders.
Cedar Grove’s Granite Cathedral — Drive the exhilarating Kings Canyon Scenic Byway, a 30-mile journey with 33 hairpin turns, descending 4,000 feet into the canyon’s heart. At Cedar Grove, discover a valley framed by monoliths like North Dome and Grand Sentinel, rivaling Yosemite’s famous formations but without the crowds. Enjoy tranquil river trails or simply gaze up at the colossal granite walls.
Junction View Overlook — Witness the sheer scale of Kings Canyon from this iconic viewpoint, where the canyon plunges dramatically beneath your feet. From 10,051-foot Spanish Mountain to the 1,200-foot Kings River confluence, the 8,000+ feet of vertical relief is breathtakingly apparent. This is the quintessential photo spot to grasp the canyon’s profound depth.
Backcountry Wilderness Access — With over 90% of the park designated as wilderness, Kings Canyon is a backpacker’s paradise. Day hikers can access alpine lakes and roaring waterfalls like Mist Falls from Roads End in Cedar Grove. For multi-day adventurers, the legendary Rae Lakes Loop, a 46-mile High Sierra circuit, traverses pristine basins and crosses 11,978-foot Glen Pass, offering unparalleled access to remote beauty without the competitive permit lotteries of other parks.
Redwood Mountain Grove — Escape the modest crowds of Grant Grove and explore the world’s largest sequoia grove by area. A 6.5-mile loop trail winds through over 15,000 sequoias with diameters exceeding 10 feet. Encounter the Hart Tree and unique fallen sequoias forming natural tunnels, providing an immersive and truly quiet old-growth forest experience.
Essential Guide
Everything you need to know.
Must-Visit Spots
Local Cuisine
Where to Stay
Travel Tips
Planning Your Visit
Planning your journey to Kings Canyon requires a bit of foresight, but the rewards are immense. Most visitors enter via Highway 180 from Fresno, the park sharing management with Sequoia National Park. The Generals Highway connects the two parks, making a combined trip over 4-6 days ideal—start in quieter Kings Canyon, then head to Sequoia. Be aware that the spectacular 30-mile Kings Canyon Scenic Byway (Highway 180) to Cedar Grove is a dead-end road and closes mid-November through late April due to snow. RVs over 22 feet may face restrictions on narrow canyon roads, and gas is only available in Grant Grove, so fill up before descending. Personal vehicles are essential for getting around, as no shuttle service operates within the park.
Park entry costs $35 per vehicle for seven days (or use an America the Beautiful pass). Accommodation within Kings Canyon proper is primarily camping ($22-26/night), with limited lodging at John Muir Lodge in Grant Grove ($190-240/night) and rustic cabins ($80-150). Backpacking permits are required for overnight wilderness trips but are generally easier to obtain than in other popular parks, often available first-come, first-served at visitor centers. Stock up on groceries in Fresno, as markets within the park offer limited selections at premium prices. A daily budget of $120-180 for two camping and self-catering, or $200-280 for lodge stays and restaurant meals, is a good estimate.
When to Visit
Choose the perfect time for your adventure.
Peak Season: Summer (July - early September)
Pros
- All park roads and facilities are typically open
- Best weather for high-elevation hiking and backpacking
- Full range of ranger programs and activities
- Wildflowers often peak in high country meadows
Cons
- Highest visitor numbers and potential for crowds
- Requires early booking for lodging and campsites
- Higher temperatures at lower elevations like Cedar Grove
- Limited parking at popular trailheads
Shoulder Season: Late Spring (May - June) & Early Fall (September - October)
Pros
- Fewer crowds than peak summer months
- Pleasant temperatures for hiking in Grant Grove and Cedar Grove
- Road to Cedar Grove usually opens in late spring
- Beautiful fall colors in certain areas during autumn
Cons
- Some high-elevation trails may still be snow-covered in spring
- Services may be limited or reduced in early spring and late fall
- Rivers can be high and fast from snowmelt in spring
- Potential for early season snow or significant temperature drops in fall
Off-Peak: Winter (November - April)
Pros
- Exceptional solitude and serene snowy landscapes
- Opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing around Grant Grove
- Unique photography opportunities of snow-covered giant sequoias
- Lower lodging rates (for accessible areas)
Cons
- Most of Kings Canyon, including Cedar Grove, is closed due to snow
- Limited park services and facilities available
- Cold temperatures and potential for severe winter storms
- Access is restricted primarily to the Grant Grove area and adjoining Sequoia Park
Kings Canyon National Park is more than just a collection of impressive sights; it’s an experience in humility and wonder. It’s the silent witness to ancient giants, the roar of a river carving through granite, and the profound stillness of a truly wild landscape. For those willing to venture a little further, to embrace the quiet grandeur and raw beauty of California’s High Sierra, Kings Canyon offers an unforgettable pilgrimage into the heart of an unsung wilderness—a place where the scale of nature redefines perspective and leaves an indelible mark on the soul.
Sample Itineraries
Canyon & Groves Explorer
Walk among General Grant Tree and giant sequoias, then descend into one of North America's deepest canyons for riverside hikes and granite wall vistas.
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Day 1: Ancient Giants & Panoramic Vistas
- Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Begin your “Canyon & Groves Explorer” adventure by entering Kings Canyon National Park. Pay the park entrance fee ($35 per vehicle, valid for 7 days for both Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks). Head directly to Grant Grove Village and check into your lodging, such as the Grant Grove Cabins (approx. $200-$250/night, 2 nights = $400-$500 total). After settling in, immerse yourselves in the majesty of the sequoias. Start with the General Grant Tree Trail (0.5-mile paved loop, 1 hour). This easy walk leads to the “Nation’s Christmas Tree” and other impressive sequoias like the Fallen Monarch. Continue to the nearby North Grove Loop (1.5 miles, 1.5-2 hours) for a quieter, more immersive experience among a grove of giant sequoias.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:30 PM) Enjoy a picnic lunch (budget $20-$30, purchased beforehand or at Grant Grove Market Deli) amidst the peaceful sequoias. Afterwards, drive to Panoramic Point (approx. 10-minute drive from Grant Grove). A short 0.5-mile round trip paved walk from the parking lot leads to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, the Sierra Nevada crest, and the distant Kings Canyon itself, giving you a taste of what’s to come. Spend about an hour here, soaking in the grand scale. Consider a visit to the Grant Grove Visitor Center (free, 30-45 minutes) to learn more about the park’s geology and ecology.
- Evening Dine at the Grant Grove Restaurant (dinner entrees $25-$40, budget $80-$100 for two with drinks). Enjoy hearty American cuisine in a rustic lodge setting. After dinner, step outside to experience the unparalleled stargazing opportunities in this designated International Dark Sky Park, far from city lights.
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Day 2: Into the Heart of Kings Canyon
- Morning (8:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Fuel up with breakfast at the Grant Grove Restaurant (budget $30-$50 for two). Pack a picnic lunch (budget $20-$30) and begin your descent into Kings Canyon via the scenic Kings Canyon Scenic Byway (Highway 180). This winding 30-mile drive down to Cedar Grove takes about 1 hour 15 minutes, offering spectacular views. Your first stop in the canyon will be Roaring River Falls (0.3-mile paved walk, 30 minutes). A short, easy stroll leads to a powerful waterfall gushing from a granite chute. Next, head to Zumwalt Meadow Trail (1.5-mile loop, 1.5-2 hours). This relatively flat trail features a suspension bridge, scenic views of the Kings River, lush meadows, and towering granite cliffs, embodying the “riverside hikes and granite wall vistas” theme.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:30 PM) Enjoy your picnic lunch along the Kings River or at one of the designated picnic areas in Cedar Grove. Afterwards, continue exploring the canyon floor. Embark on the lower section of the Mist Falls Trail (total 8.3 miles round trip, consider hiking 2-3 miles in, 2-3 hours, to see impressive canyon views and the rushing Kings River before turning back). This trail is one of the most popular in the canyon and offers spectacular granite scenery. Alternatively, for a shorter option, visit Knapp’s Cabin (0.5-mile round trip, 30 minutes), a historic shelter built by a wealthy Pasadena businessman.
- Evening Drive back up to Grant Grove Village (approx. 1 hour 15 minutes). For a change of pace, grab dinner at the Grant Grove Pizza (pizzas $20-$35, budget $40-$60 for two) or return to the Grant Grove Restaurant if you preferred it. Reflect on the day’s dramatic change in scenery from giant trees to the deep canyon.
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Day 3: Canyon Reflections & Departure
- Morning (8:30 AM - 12:30 PM) Enjoy a final breakfast (e.g., at Grant Grove Restaurant or grab pastries/coffee from the market, budget $20-$40). Check out of your lodging. For one last taste of the canyon, drive back down to Cedar Grove (approx. 1 hour 15 minutes) for the Sentinel Dome & Falls Trail (2.0-mile loop, 1.5-2 hours). This trail offers different perspectives of the canyon walls, views of Sentinel Dome, and passes by the scenic Sentinel Falls (seasonal flow). It’s a moderate hike that provides a wonderful farewell to the canyon’s grandeur without being overly strenuous.
- Afternoon (12:30 PM - 3:00 PM) Drive back up to Grant Grove Village (approx. 1 hour 15 minutes). Enjoy a leisurely deli lunch from the Grant Grove Market (sandwiches $10-$15, budget $20-$30 for two) or pack some snacks for the road. Take some time for last-minute souvenir shopping at the Grant Grove Gift Shop. Begin your scenic drive out of Kings Canyon National Park, carrying memories of ancient giants and one of North America’s deepest canyons.
High Sierra Wilderness
Explore backcountry trails to alpine lakes, witness the 8,000-foot canyon depths, and camp beneath towering sequoias in this less-crowded Sierra gem.
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Day 1: Giants and Gorge Gateway
- Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Arrive at Kings Canyon National Park, paying the entrance fee ($35 per vehicle, valid for 7 days). Head directly to Grant Grove Village. Pick up your reserved wilderness permit at the Grant Grove Visitor Center (it’s essential to have a permit for any overnight backcountry trip, reserved months in advance online or via walk-up lottery). Spend time marveling at the colossal General Grant Tree, the nation’s Christmas Tree, on a paved, wheelchair-accessible 0.3-mile loop. Explore the other giants of the Big Trees Trail loop (1.5 miles, easy).
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) After a quick picnic lunch sourced from Grant Grove Market, begin the scenic 1.5-hour descent into Kings Canyon via Highway 180 (the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway). The road winds dramatically down 5,000 feet, showcasing the canyon’s immense scale. Check into your pre-booked campsite at Sentinel Campground ($40/night, reservable) in Cedar Grove. Unpack and take a refreshing, easy 0.3-mile walk to Roaring River Falls, enjoying the powerful cascades.
- Evening Enjoy a casual dinner at the Cedar Grove Snack Bar, offering simple hot meals and snacks. Afterwards, organize and consolidate your backpacking gear, ensuring everything is ready for an early start into the backcountry tomorrow. Enjoy the sound of the Kings River and gaze at the incredibly clear night sky, free from light pollution.
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Day 2: Valley Wonders & Backcountry Readiness
- Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Start the day with a hearty breakfast at your campsite. Embark on the beautiful Zumwalt Meadow Loop (1.5 miles, easy), a flat trail that meanders through a lush meadow, offering stunning views of towering granite cliffs like the Sphinx. Continue your exploration to Roads End, the literal end of the paved road and the primary trailhead for much of the Kings Canyon backcountry, including the Rae Lakes Loop and Bubbs Creek Trail. Familiarize yourself with the parking and trailhead conditions.
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Return to Cedar Grove for a packed lunch or simple meal from the Cedar Grove Market. Spend the afternoon finalizing your backcountry preparations: double-check your gear list, repack your backpack to distribute weight evenly, and ensure you have sufficient water and food for two nights and three days. Review your topo map and route for the Bubbs Creek Trail and Sphinx Lakes.
- Evening Cook a simple, delicious meal at your campsite, conserving your energy for the strenuous days ahead. Reconfirm your wilderness permit details and bear canister contents. Turn in early, dreaming of alpine lakes and granite peaks.
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Day 3: Into the Wilderness: Bubbs Creek Ascent
- Morning (7:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Rise early, enjoy a quick camp breakfast, and break down your tent. Drive to Roads End (about a 15-minute drive from Sentinel Campground) and park in the wilderness parking area. Double-check your bear canister is properly sealed and your permit is visible. Begin your backpacking adventure on the Bubbs Creek Trail, a segment of the famous Rae Lakes Loop. The trail starts relatively flat along the Kings River before beginning a gradual ascent. Your goal for today is Junction Meadow, approximately 4.5 miles with about 1,200 feet of elevation gain.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Continue your hike through beautiful conifer forests alongside the roaring Bubbs Creek. Enjoy the sounds of the wilderness and the increasing solitude. Arrive at Junction Meadow, a designated wilderness camp area known for its beautiful open spaces and access to water. Locate a suitable campsite, respecting Leave No Trace principles. Set up your tent and secure your food in your bear canister.
- Evening Prepare and enjoy your first backcountry dinner. As the sun dips below the granite peaks, watch for wildlife and soak in the profound quiet of the High Sierra. Reflect on the day’s achievement and the beauty surrounding you. Stargazing will be exceptional, far from any city lights.
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Day 4: Alpine Lakes & High Sierra Views
- Morning (7:00 AM - 1:00 PM) After a hearty backcountry breakfast, prepare for a strenuous but incredibly rewarding day hike. From your camp at Junction Meadow, embark on the Sphinx Lakes Trail. This trail immediately begins a steep ascent (approximately 3 miles with over 3,000 feet of elevation gain), switchbacking through forest and open granite slabs. Take your time, enjoy the dramatic views opening up behind you as you climb higher.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Reach the spectacular Sphinx Lakes, nestled in a high-alpine cirque at elevations over 10,000 feet. Spend ample time exploring the crystal-clear, icy cold lakes, surrounded by towering granite peaks. Enjoy a packed lunch with breathtaking panoramic views. Capture photos, or simply sit and absorb the profound tranquility of this remote Sierra gem. Carefully begin your descent back down the steep trail to your camp at Junction Meadow.
- Evening Celebrate your significant accomplishment with another backcountry dinner. Your muscles might be tired, but your spirit will be invigorated. Share stories of the day’s journey and enjoy your final night sleeping under the vast Sierra sky, listening to the sounds of Bubbs Creek.
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Day 5: Wilderness Farewell & Sequoia Finale
- Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Wake up to the crisp mountain air. Enjoy a final backcountry breakfast and efficiently break down your camp, ensuring you leave no trace behind. Begin your hike out from Junction Meadow, retracing your steps along the Bubbs Creek Trail back to Roads End. The descent will be quicker, allowing you to enjoy different perspectives of the canyon you climbed into.
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - 4:00 PM) Arrive back at Roads End. Congratulate yourselves on a successful wilderness adventure! Drive back up the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway, stopping at various viewpoints you might have missed on the way down. Before leaving the park, make a final stop at Panoramic Point (near Grant Grove) for one last, breathtaking view of the High Sierra, including the valley you just explored.
- Evening For a well-deserved celebratory meal, enjoy dinner at the Grant Grove Restaurant, savoring a sit-down meal with views. Reflect on your incredible journey through the diverse landscapes of Kings Canyon National Park, from towering sequoias to deep canyon depths and serene alpine lakes. Begin your drive home, carrying memories of the High Sierra Wilderness.
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