Best forest trails in Kings Canyon National Park

This popular route starts along the sandy Cedar Grove Trail, and then takes a left (north) onto the Mist Falls Trail. The trail is mostly moderate until the end, where there is a quick 600 foot gain to the waterfall. From San Francisco, the drive is roughly five hours. After a beautiful drive through the western part of Kings Canyon, you’ll end at Road’s End Trailhead, which is where this hike begins. If you are just day-hiking, and not taking an overnight trip, you do not need a permit to do this hike. This route follows along the sandy Cedar Grove trail, parallel to Bubbs Creek. After a couple miles, you’ll take a left (north) onto the Mist Falls Trail. As you climb into the wilderness, you’ll have some beautiful views of the canyon you were just in. Eventually you’ll reach the falls which are, as their name suggests, very misty! Be prepared to get wet! After the hot hike, it is a welcomed reprieve. The park road is closed in the winter time, so summer time is the best season to visit. Be sure to pack plenty of water, sunscreen and mosquito repellent. There is a restroom at the trailhead but no water or services. Unfortunately you’ll have to leave Fido at home, as this park is not dog friendly!Show more

You will need an update Wilderness Permit Application to visit this Park. Please find the application here: https://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/upload/NoYear-Wilderness-permit-app5-13-2020.pdfShow more

This short, family-friendly trail passes by the historic Gamlin Cabin and the General Grant Tree (the world's second-largest tree). Accessibility: According to the park's website, although paved and typically over three feet wide, this trail has some steep sections so is not considered fully wheelchair/mobility equipment or stroller accessible. The steepest section is 6% at about 0.4 miles, by the General Grant Grove of trees. The estimated average grade for the trail is 3%. There are some stairs on a short trail that goes around the Tree (about 0.2 miles in), but that trail can be bypassed. There are benches along this trail for resting. In the parking lot, there is one designated handicapped-accessible parking spot, accessible flush restrooms, and water fountains. There are placards along the trail with raised illustrations and Braille explanations. The entry to the Cabin is a raised threshold so entering is not accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.Show more

The Zumwalt Meadow Loop offers great views of the meadow, the Kings River, and the granite cliffs that surround Cedar grove. Portions of the trail are accessible to people in wheelchairs. Show more

This is a gorgeous hike through groves of giant trees. Seeing the Hart Tree is worth the hike - very impressive. Trail is more of rolling hills rather than steep inclines. Lots of shade. Show more

Just off Kings Canyon Scenic Byway, a short and easy hike offers an impressive reward: Grizzly Falls. The 75-foot waterfall is at its best in spring, when the thunderous force is strong enough to pound your chestShow more