Kings Canyon National Park does not get the attention it deserves. Most people drive past it on the way to Sequoia, and honestly, that is their loss.
This park has granite cliffs, roaring waterfalls, and alpine lakes that will stop you in your tracks.
I have put together 27 of the best hikes here, from quick family friendly walks to serious multi day backcountry routes.
There is something for every fitness level and every kind of outdoor lover. If you are planning a trip, this list is the only guide you need.
Why Visit Kings Canyon National Park for Hiking?
Kings Canyon National Park is a dream for hikers. Towering granite cliffs, roaring waterfalls, and calm alpine lakes make every trail feel rewarding.
While Sequoia National Park next door is famous for its giant trees, Kings Canyon goes deeper with dramatic canyon views and wilder terrain.
It feels rawer and less crowded. The best part? The trails here work for everyone. A casual walker or a serious backpacker will both find something worth doing. This park truly has it all.
List of 27 Best Hikes in Kings Canyon National Park
Kings Canyon National Park has trails for every type of hiker. Here are 27 best ones worth adding to your list.
1. Roaring River Falls Trail
A short, easy walk leads to a powerful waterfall crashing into a granite basin. Great for families and first-time visitors. The mist from the falls feels refreshing, especially on a warm summer day in the park.
2. Panoramic Point Trail
This moderate trail rewards hikers with sweeping views of the Sierra Nevada range. The climb is steady but manageable. Once you reach the top, the wide open landscape stretching across the mountains makes the effort completely worthwhile.
3. General Grant Tree Trail
Walk among some of the biggest trees on Earth. The General Grant Tree, named the Nation’s Christmas Tree, stands massive along this gentle loop. The trail is short, family friendly, and packed with natural beauty at every turn.
4. Zumwalt Meadow Loop
A peaceful loop around a lush meadow beside the Kings River. Tall canyon walls surround the path on all sides. Wildlife sightings are common here, and the calm atmosphere makes this one of the most relaxing walks in the park.
5. Big Stump Loop Trail
This trail passes through an area once heavily logged in the 1800s. You can still see massive stumps left behind from that era. It is a short, easy walk that carries a strong sense of history and natural recovery.
6. Hume Lake Loop Trail
A gentle loop around the calm and scenic Hume Lake. Perfect for a relaxed morning walk or an evening stroll. The still water reflects the surrounding trees beautifully, and the flat terrain makes it accessible for hikers of all fitness levels.
7. Grizzly Falls Trail
One of the most underrated stops in Kings Canyon. Grizzly Falls is a wide, dramatic waterfall that drops into a rocky pool below. The trail to reach it is very short, making it a quick but truly rewarding experience.
8. Grant Grove Village Trail
A casual walk through the heart of Grant Grove. This trail connects key spots in the village area and passes through beautiful groves of giant sequoias. A great starting point for first time visitors getting familiar with the park layout.
9. North Grove Loop Trail
This quiet loop winds through a dense grove of giant sequoias away from the busier trails. The path is easy and well-maintained. It offers a more peaceful experience for those who want fewer crowds and more time with the trees.
10. Big Baldy Ridge Trail
A rewarding out and back trail that leads to a granite dome with stunning 360 degree views. The hike involves some elevation gain but remains manageable. On a clear day, you can see deep into the Kings Canyon valley below.
11. Park Ridge Trail
This trail follows a long ridgeline through open forest with views on both sides. The terrain is mostly flat with gentle ups and downs. It is a great choice for hikers who want a longer walk without too much elevation change.
12. Mist Falls Trail
One of the most popular hikes in Kings Canyon. The trail follows the Kings River through a wide valley before reaching Mist Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in the park. The round trip takes most hikers about four to five hours.
13. Hotel Creek Trail (Cedar Grove Overlook)
A steep climb out of Cedar Grove leads to an open overlook with fantastic canyon views. The trail is challenging but short. Once you reach the top, the view of the valley floor and surrounding granite walls is absolutely worth the effort.
14. Buena Vista Peak Trail
A short but satisfying hike to an open granite summit with wide views of the Sierra Nevada. The trail is easy enough for most hikers. The open rock at the top gives you space to sit, rest, and take in the scenery.
15. Sheep Creek Cascade Trail
This lesser known trail follows a small creek through a shaded canyon. The cascades along the route are beautiful, especially in spring when snowmelt is heavy. It is a peaceful and quiet option away from the more trafficked park trails.
16. Marvin Pass Trail
A moderate trail that climbs through open forest to a pass with good views of the surrounding wilderness. The path sees fewer visitors compared to other trails nearby. It works well as a standalone hike or a starting point for longer routes.
17. Jennie Lakes Wilderness Trail
This trail leads into a quiet wilderness area with several small lakes along the way. The scenery is beautiful and the crowds are minimal. Backpackers often use this route for overnight trips, but it also works well as a long day hike.
18. Don Cecil Trail to Lookout Peak
A long and demanding climb that rewards hikers with one of the best panoramic views in Kings Canyon. The trail gains significant elevation over several miles. At the top, you get a sweeping look at the Cedar Grove area and surrounding mountains.
19. Kearsarge Pass Trail to Kearsarge Lakes
This high alpine trail climbs through open rocky terrain to a scenic pass and a chain of beautiful lakes. The views are stunning throughout. It connects to the John Muir Trail, making it popular with long distance hikers and backpackers alike.
20. Rae Lakes Loop
One of the most celebrated multi day hikes in the Sierra Nevada. The loop passes through open valleys, over high passes, and alongside a series of brilliant alpine lakes. Most hikers take four to five days to complete the full circuit comfortably.
21. Copper Creek Trail
A steep and demanding trail that climbs quickly out of Cedar Grove into the high country above. The views improve with every mile. This route is best suited for experienced hikers who are comfortable with long climbs and significant elevation gain over the day.
22. Granite Pass via Simpson Meadow
A long backcountry route that passes through wide open meadows and climbs to a high granite pass. The scenery is remote and raw. This trail is best suited for experienced backpackers who are prepared for multiple days away from facilities and services.
23. Sphinx Creek Trail
This trail follows Sphinx Creek deep into a quiet canyon before climbing toward higher terrain. The lower section is shaded and scenic. It is a solid option for hikers looking for a longer day hike or a first night of a backpacking trip.
24. Woods Creek Trail
A classic backcountry route that follows Woods Creek through open valleys and forested sections. The trail connects to several major routes in the Kings Canyon backcountry. Hikers often use it as part of a longer loop through the surrounding wilderness areas.
25. North Boundary Trail
A remote trail running along the northern edge of Kings Canyon National Park. It sees very little foot traffic, offering true solitude for experienced hikers. The route passes through varied terrain with forest, open ridges, and long stretches of undisturbed natural landscape.
26. Kanawyers Trail
This trail starts near Road’s End and heads into the backcountry along the Kings River. The path is relatively flat at first before gaining elevation further in. It is a good entry point for those planning multi day trips into the Kings Canyon wilderness.
27. Gardiner Basin Route
A challenging off trail route leading to a remote high alpine basin filled with lakes and granite. Navigation skills are required. This route is strictly for experienced backcountry hikers who are comfortable with rugged terrain and spending multiple days deep in the wilderness.
Tips for Hiking in Kings Canyon National Park
- Always carry enough water, sunscreen, and warm layers. Download offline maps before you head out since cell service is limited in the park.
- Store food properly and stay alert for bears, especially on backcountry trails. Keep a safe distance from all wildlife, including snakes on rocky paths.
- Check trail conditions and closures before every hike. Weather and snow can make certain routes unsafe, particularly at higher elevations during spring.
- A wilderness permit is required for overnight backcountry trips. Book early as permits fill up fast during the peak summer season.
- Follow Leave No Trace rules throughout the park. Pack out all trash, stay on marked trails, and respect the natural environment around you.
Conclusion
Kings Canyon has a trail for every mood and fitness level. From the short walk to Roaring River Falls to the multi-day Rae Lakes Loop, each hike offers something real and memorable.
Try mixing an easy trail with a harder one on the same trip. You will get the best of both worlds.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest hike in Kings Canyon National Park?
The General Grant Tree Trail and Roaring River Falls Trail are great for beginners. Both are short, flat, and suitable for families with kids.
Do I need a permit to hike in Kings Canyon?
Day hikes do not require a permit. However, overnight backcountry trips need a wilderness permit, which you should book well in advance.
When is the best time to visit Kings Canyon for hiking?
Late spring through early fall is the best time. Most trails are fully accessible from June to September, with pleasant weather and clear paths.
Are there bear encounters on Kings Canyon trails?
Bears are active in the park, especially near campgrounds and backcountry routes. Always store food in bear canisters and never leave snacks unattended on trails.
How is Kings Canyon different from Sequoia National Park?
Both parks sit side by side, but Kings Canyon offers deeper canyons, wilder terrain, and fewer crowds. Sequoia is more visited, while Kings Canyon feels more raw and remote.
