Best Hikes in Kings Canyon: 14 Hiking Trails You Need to Try

As an avid hiker, there is no doubt you’re trying to seek out the top hiking spots to take your breath away (in more ways than one). That’s where Kings Canyon National Park comes in – a stunning location that brings vibrant natural beauty.

Kings Canyon offers more than just some giant forest – it has some of the best panoramic views out there, gorgeous waterfalls, and the best hiking trails for any activity level. Whether you want to take it easy on a beginner-level trail or push your limits on one of the more strenuous ones, these hikes have got you covered. 

So without any further ado, let’s get into the ins and outs of the 14 best hikes in Kings Canyon National Park.

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Best Time to Go Hiking in Kings Canyon National Park, CA

The best time to go hiking in Kings Canyon depends on what you’re looking for or what you’re willing to deal with. Generally speaking, the best time to visit is when the weather is a bit warmer. Sure, there are plenty of national parks to visit in winter, but Kings Canyon thrives in the warm sunshine.

Temperatures can differ depending on where in Kings Canyon you find yourself. The foothills between June and August (summer), specifically, can get extremely hot. You can expect average highs of 94°F (34.4°C), but these can reach above 100°F (38°C) in some cases.

On average, temperatures between September and November (fall) range from lows of between 60.7°F (15.9°C) and 95°F (35°C), which is far more comfortable. The weather in California can be notoriously scorching at times, so you might benefit from these slightly cooler temperatures.

That said, while these months are best for their milder temperatures if you’re more interested in avoiding the crowds, May and October are best as they are especially quiet. However, with that comes colder weather, with average daily temperatures ranging between 17.6°F (-8°C) and 53.6°F (12°C).

Map Of Best Hikes In Kings Canyon National Park

What To Pack For The Best Hikes in Kings Canyon

• Sunscreen: California gets HOT, and there is so much sun. Definitely bring some sunscreen.  >Buy Sunscreen
• Hiking Boots/Shoes: >Check Out The Hiking Shoes Shown In The Pictures Here
• Hiking socks: Having the correct socks helps prevent getting blisters. Smart Wool is probably my favorite brand out there. >Buy Hiking Socks
• Water Reservoir: Water reservoirs help prevent me from getting dehydrated while hiking. The great thing about this reservoir is that it doesn’t have a plastic taste. >Here Is My Water Reservoir
• Water: Stay nice and hydrated. It gets pretty hot here.
• Sunglasses: It gets pretty sunny, so make sure to pack some sunglasses. >Check Out These Sunglasses
• Snacks: The best snacks are jerky, nuts, and energy bars. Clif Bars are great for hiking.
• Camera: The Sony A6000 was one of the first cameras I started traveling with. The Sony A6000 is an excellent camera for people that want to start improving at travel photography.  >Buy Sony Camera Here
• First Aid Kit: This is one of the first things I bought when I started going on adventures. It is super portable. >Buy This Awesome First Aid Kit Here
• Day Pack to carry all your things: The REI bag I have linked, we have had for seven years now, and it is still going strong! >Buy This Great Quality Backpack
• Headlamp: A headlamp is an absolute must in case you get stranded in the dark while hiking! It is a lot more portable and easier to use than a flashlight. >Buy A Headlamp Now
• Leggings or shorts: Shorts are good for hot days, but I loved the leggings I wore in Visalia! >Click For The Cute Leggings On My Photos
• Breathable sweat-wicking shirts: Cotton shirts soak up your sweat when hiking, so make sure to wear something breathable and don’t wear cotton. >Check out this awesome breathable shirt here.
• Sports Bra: For women. >Buy The One In The Pictures Here
• Jacket: You should bring a jacket if you go during the Winter, Spring, or Fall seasons.  >Buy My Favorite Jacket
• Tripod: This is an optional item, but it is excellent for getting the ideal sunset pictures. >Check out this tripod
• Knife: I always carry a knife in my backpack just in case. >Check Out My Knife Here
• National Park Pass:  I highly recommend getting a year-long America The Beautiful Pass so you can get into both parks with ease. >Get It Here
• Map And Trail Guide: Start planning your trip with this. >Buy One Here

How to Get to Kings Canyon National Park

With all this knowledge of the best hikes in Kings Canyon National Park, you might wonder how exactly to get there. Here are some general driving directions for you to follow.

The closest airports to Kings Canyon NP are Fresno Yosemite International Airport (around 53 miles from the Big Stump Entrance) and Visalia Municipal Airport. Whether you’re traveling from one of these airports or from anywhere else, there are two possible entrances to the park you could use.

The first is the Ash Mountain entrance, which takes you through Sequoia National Park, and the second is the Big Stump entrance which leads directly into Kings Canyon. 

Taking the CA198 east from Three Rivers should lead you to the Ash Mountain entrance. Conversely, you can take the CA180 east from Fresno to the Big Stump entrance.

Both entrances have similar ETAs from Los Angeles (four hours) and San Francisco (five hours) when driving. If you want, there is also an option to take a Greyhound bus or Sequoia Shuttle to the park.

How Much Time Do You Need at Kings Canyon?

It’s safe to say that enjoying a great deal of what Kings Canyon offers in a single day is possible. If you’re short on time, go for it, but to truly see the entire park, explore for a few days at least.

Around three or four days would be sufficient, but consider seven days to maximize your time. The standard entrance pass is valid for around seven days and gives access to the Sequoia Kings Canyon National Park region. Plus, it only costs between $20 and $35 – so you might as well give it a go.

Where to Stay in and Near Kings Canyon National Park

If you want to get the best out of your Kings Canyon National Park trip, you will want to stay for a few days. There are many options when it comes to lodging in Kings Canyon, but consider locations outside the direct area. 

Here are some great options ranging from budget to luxury in and near the canyon.

Luxury: Montecito Sequoia Lodge

If you want to splurge more and don’t mind the short drive, look no further than Montecito Sequoia Lodge. This all-inclusive accommodation is around 10 miles away from Kings Canyon, located in the Sequoia National Forest. 

Each room boasts stunning views of the surrounding forest, breathtaking lake, and mountain ranges surrounding the area. You can enjoy everything from an outdoor pool, a restaurant, a bar, or even seasonal activities that the family will surely enjoy. 

This lodge is certainly a great option all year round. >>>View Rates and Availability

Mid-Range: John Muir Lodge

Lodging in Kings Canyon doesn’t get better than this, especially at this price point. This lodge offers a classic retreat in Grant Grove village and is surrounded by giant Sequoia trees giving you that extra whimsical feel.

Whether you want to read a book in front of the cozy fireplace or play board games in the lobby, this lodge’s timber and stone walls have plenty to do. Don’t forget to check out the Grant Grove Restaurant, just next door. As a bonus, the lodge is pet friendly, so you don’t need to leave the pups at home. >>>View Rates and Availability

Budget: The Sequoia Hut

If you’re looking for great accommodation that is budget friendly and just an hour’s drive away from Kings Canyon, then the Sequoia Hut is just the place. This holiday home in Three Rivers is definitely worth the journey.

Enjoy the stunning views of the gardens and mountain ranges surrounding this little cabin. You also can’t go wrong with the fully-equipped kitchen or flatscreen TV and the serene privacy that comes along with it. Don’t forget that you can get stuck in some fun activities, like canoeing. >>>View Rates and Availability

Camping in Kings Canyon

Camping is always a fantastic budget-friendly option for staying in Kings Canyon. There will be more on camping costs further on, but just know that there are plenty of campsites to choose from in Kings Canyon National Park.

The Azalea, Sunset, and Crystal Springs campgrounds can be found in Grant Grove Village. Alternatively, you can opt to camp in Cedar Grove Village, where you’ll find the Canyon View, Sentinel, Sheep Creek, and Moraine campgrounds.

It’s always best to check beforehand which Kings Canyon hiking trails you’ll likely be visiting and then decide which campgrounds to choose from there. >>>Find out more

14 Best Kings Canyon Hikes

If you’re ready for a thrilling hiking adventure of a lifetime, look no further. Here are the 14 best hikes in Kings Canyon, no matter your fitness level. 

Read next: How about looking at some Sequoia National Park hikes when you’re done?

Mist Falls

• Elevation Gain: 220 Feet
• Mileage: 8 Miles (out and back)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

Do you know how they usually save the best for last? That’s certainly not the case here – starting the list on a high note with one of the best waterfall hikes, Mist Falls. This trail is more for intermediate-level fitness enthusiasts, but it is worth the extra work if you’re a beginner. 

As you make your way up the gradual climb, you’ll feel the signature misty refreshment from the falls above. The waterfall itself gets its name from the massive cloud of mist that forms from the force of the water, and you won’t want to miss the sight. The view at the end of the trail is extra rewarding.

Manzanita and Azalea Trail

• Elevation Gain: 902 Feet
• Mileage: 4.3 Miles (loop)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

This loop trail near Cedar Grove offers some equally gorgeous views of the natural beauty of Kings Canyon’s best hikes. It’s a more intermediate-level hike, taking around 2 hours and 10 minutes to finish. Beginners are more than welcome to give this trail a go. 

Yes, you’ll get views of the surrounding giant Sequoias and hills in the canyon, but what makes this trail extra special is the blossoming flowers – the name says it all. The blooming azaleas and manzanita flowers are truly breathtaking when they’re in season, around summer and springtime.

Zumwalt Meadow Loop

• Elevation Gain: 157 Feet
• Mileage: 1.5 Miles (out and back)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Guide: Link

Hiking on the Zumwalt Meadow Trail is easy, so this is an excellent option for beginners. The paved trail is wheelchair and stroller-friendly, too, so it’s usually a popular choice for most visitors. On average, it takes 1 – 2 hours to complete, depending on how fast you go.

This short trail features terrific views of the lush meadows, beautiful flowers and flora, a suspension bridge, and towering granite walls. Unfortunately, there may be times when the trail is closed due to flooding or something similar, so always check ahead before trekking on this trail.

Roaring River Falls

• Elevation Gain: 26 Feet
• Mileage: 0.3 Miles (out and back)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Guide: Link

This hiking trail is by far the easiest one on the list – talk about keeping things short and sweet. This river trail is paved, wheelchair-accessible, and kid-friendly, so the whole family can take the short journey and enjoy the views.

The Roaring River Falls won’t disappoint. Nothing is more serene and breathtaking than the sounds and sights of the river and waterfall you’ll find on this trail. As captivating as this trail is, it is one you can do quite quickly. That only makes doing it a few extra times even more fun.

Rae Lakes Loop

• Elevation Gain: 7,671 Feet
• Mileage: 39 Miles (loop)
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trail Guide: Link

You read that right – the Rae Lakes Loop is undoubtedly one of the most challenging (and popular) day hikes in Kings Canyon. This one is not for the faint of heart, so lace up those hiking boots, get your backpack filled with snacks and water, and prepare for a long journey.

If the nearly 40-mile journey seems a bit too daunting, you’ll be happy to know that there are several connecting trails and entry points to make the trip a bit shorter. Plus, you can camp along the way. Either way, the surrounding views of the canyon and mountain ranges are more than enough to keep you enjoying every moment of your hike.

General Grant Trail

• Elevation Gain: 33 Feet
• Mileage: 0.7 Miles (loop)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Guide: Link

This trail is for you if you are an inexperienced hiker or want to take it easy. This loop trail near Cedar Grove should take you as little as 15 – 20 minutes to complete. The paved path is built for accessibility, so it is perfect for families with strollers or wheelchair users. 

The whole family will benefit from the gorgeous scenery of giant trees and wildflowers scattered around you. Let’s not forget the hallmark General Grant Tree, which sits tall and proud along your journey. This trail is particularly popular, so you’ll find plenty of fellow hikers. Unfortunately, the doggos have to stay at home for this one.

Park Ridge Trail

• Elevation Gain: 1,010 Feet
• Mileage: 5.2 Miles (out and back)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

On a 2-hour and 33-minute journey, you can find yourself on the Park Ridge Trial, which takes you from Panoramic Point to the Park Ridge Fire lookout. This trail is quieter, so it’s great if you want to avoid crowds, as it’s in a more secluded area of Kings Canyon. 

It features views of the starting position near Panoramic Point and boasts stunning natural scenery along the way to the Park Ridge lookout. Once you’ve made the journey through the looming dense forest, you’ll find Fire Lookout Tower at the lookout point, adding to the experience – certainly worth the trek.

Panoramic Point

• Elevation Gain: 98 Feet
• Mileage: 0.5 Miles (loop)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Guide: Link

There are plenty of Kings Canyon trails that are easy to complete and accessible, this one included. 

The hike up to Panoramic Point has everything you could hope for. Easy enough for all fitness levels? Check. Wheelchair-friendly and stroller accessible? Yep. This trail takes around 15 – 20 minutes to complete and boasts beautiful views of the park below, making for a truly breathtaking sight.

Unfortunately, pets aren’t allowed on this trail (or any trails on this list, for that matter), but don’t let that deter you. The walk up to the top is short, but there is no shortage of wildflower beauty and natural scenery around you. Once you reach the top and gaze upon the 360-degree view, you can spot looming hills and lakes in the canyon. What could be better?

North Grove and Sunset Loop

• Elevation Gain: 348 Feet
• Mileage: 1.7 Miles (loop)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Guide: Link

The North Grove and Sunset loop trail offers another easy option for new hikers near Cedar Grove. The path is shorter and only takes around 50 minutes to finish, depending on how often you like to take breaks – and you’ll likely take a few just to capture epic scenery and photo-worthy moments.

The path is partially paved and easy to follow, so kids are welcome. Like most of the park, you’ll be surrounded by gorgeous colorful wildflowers and impressive giant Sequoias. Let’s not forget the incredible wildlife, especially the birds, like the American Robin or Northern Flicker, that make a home in the forest’s trees.

Big Baldy Ridge

• Elevation Gain: 1,293 Feet
• Mileage: 6 Miles (out and back)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

The Big Baldy Ridge trail is another one for the more intermediate and experienced hikers. It should take around 3 hours and 5 minutes, making it one of the longest trails on the list. It’s another one of those popular travels, so coming across fellow hikers is highly likely.

This trial is suitable for both hiking and running. It boasts gorgeous views of the canyon’s best features, including giant Sequoias, granite boulders and hills, and unbeatable views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. At the very highest point, sitting at a staggering 8,200 feet high is Big Baldy Peak – indeed an unforgettable sight.

Big Stump Loop

• Elevation Gain: 194 Feet
• Mileage: 1.6 Miles (loop)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Guide: Link

Another easy option for all fitness levels, this loop should take around 40 minutes to complete. This trail is a hidden gem, as visitors to the park typically drive right past it to get to more well-known trails. Don’t let that steer you away; this easy loop has its fair share of incredible scenery, including Big Stump Basin.

As a bonus, since there are fewer crowds around this trial, you can enjoy the beauty of nature and its tranquility in peace. The only downside would be the occasional sound of nearby traffic from the highway.

Viola Falls

• Elevation Gain: 679 Feet
• Mileage: 3.7 Miles (out and back)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

Next on the list is a more intermediate-level hike for experienced hikers and fitness enthusiasts. It should take around 1 hour and 45 minutes, so set aside some more time to account for water breaks (or photo opportunities). It’s a popular route, so you’ll likely encounter other explorers. 

The hike up to Viola Falls is undoubtedly an unforgettable one. The scenic route boasts views of the surrounding greenery and flora, stunning wildflowers, and of course, the stunning crystal-clear waters. You might even want to consider a tranquil picnic alongside the embankment – it is truly enchanting.

Sequoia Lake

• Elevation Gain: 1,135 Feet
• Mileage: 5.5 Miles (out and back)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

What could be more scenic and jaw-dropping than hiking to Sequoia Lake near Cedar Grove? This intermediate trail should take around 2 hours and 46 minutes to complete but offers plenty of places to take a break and enjoy the scenery around you.

Whether you want a leisurely walk, jogging, or running experience, this trail is perfect for more serious fitness lovers. Of course, beginners can try this route out if you’re willing to work that much harder. The views along this hiking trail are unbeatable – it boasts gorgeous giant trees, wildflowers, waterfalls, streams, and Sequoia Lake itself.

Ella Falls Loop

• Elevation Gain: 1,112 Feet
• Mileage: 5.7 Miles (loop)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

Last but certainly not least, we have the Ella Falls loop trail, which is a more strenuous hike worth the extra work. This route is usually completed in about 2 hours and 48 minutes, so again, take your time and enjoy the scenery and stop for breaks when needed.

The long hike will give you plenty of time to ponder life’s curiosities or simply bask in the beauty of Kings Canyon’s views and environment. There are plenty of photo opportunities along the Sequoia trees and meadows. The paths themselves are easily marked, and there are spots along the way where you can rest comfortably. 

FAQs | Best Hikes in Kings Canyon

Here are a few of the most frequently asked questions about hiking in Kings Canyon.

Do You Need Hiking Boots for Kings Canyon?

Some trails in Kings Canyon National Park are steeper than others, and you’re likely to come across loose gravel or rocks, so it is always best to have shoes designed for hiking.

Hiking boots can make your experience ten times better – they will be more comfortable, provide you with the ankle support you need, and lessen your chances of injury – the list goes on. 

So it’s always a good idea to buy good quality hiking shoes before embarking on any of the best Kings Canyon hikes.

How Much Does It Cost to Camp in Kings Canyon?

As you know, Kings Canyon NP offers more than just scenic hiking spots. It also has several excellent camping locations to immerse yourself in the surroundings. But how much does it cost?

Well, luckily, camping here is pretty affordable. Here is a breakdown of the costs you can expect that apply to both Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks:

• Standard campsite – $28 per night

• Stock campsite – $40 per night

• Mid-sized group campsite – $50

• Large group campsite – $60/$70/$80 per night (site dependent)

Can You Swim at Kings Canyon?

After looking up Kings Canyon National Park, you’ve undoubtedly noticed the sheer abundance of gorgeous waterfalls, creaks, and lakes. Understandably, you’d want to dip your feet in the beautiful waters surrounding the park, especially after a long and hard day of hiking.

Luckily, there are plenty of spots where you can swim in Kings Canyon. Muir Rock, located at Roads End, is popular for visitors to take a dip. Apart from Muir Rock, there are other swimming locations, like Middle Fork Kaweah River or Hume Lake.

Best Hikes in Kings Canyon | Wrapped Up

There you have it, folks, the best hikes in Kings Canyon all wrapped up in a convenient package. Whether you’re looking for an easy breezy walk up to the Panoramic Point scenic overlook or a more challenging hike to Ella Falls, this national park has it all.

But now that you know the ins and outs of hiking in Kings Canyon National Park, why not learn more about the sister park? Check out some fun things to do in Sequoia National Park.

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