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    Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

    Hikes in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

    Region in California, United States

    Admire the topographical and ecological diversity of the Sequoia and Kings National Parks by exploring miles of uninterrupted hiking trails through the protected backcountry. Offering countless outdoor opportunities, including canyoning, camping, climbing, and swimming, the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are undeniably a hiker’s paradise. Boasting a wealth of hiking routes, there are trails to satisfy all types of adventurers. These parks cater to you, whether you are an adrenaline junky seeking a taxing trek or a novice hiker looking for an easy-going stroll through the forest.

    Home to Redwood Canyon, the largest remaining grove of sequoia trees in the world, and the Giant Forest Grove—where the world’s largest sequoia is found, many hikes within the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are through stands of old-growth forests, which boasts an other-worldly ambiance. Most routes through the groves are well-maintained, family-friendly, lined with interpretive signs, and busy. Those seeking a more tranquil hike will have to look elsewhere- but do not fret, there are plenty of secluded and equally scenic trails to choose from within the parks.

    Open year-round, 24/7, the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks beckon adventurers of all sorts from around the country. Exhibiting a diversity of flora and fauna—including some of the world’s largest trees, these parks offer no shortage of scenery. Indulge in the grandeur and beauty of this rich area of wilderness and enjoy the tranquility of the shadowed natural sanctuary.

    The 20 Greatest Hiking Routes in the Sequoia and Kings National Parks

    The topographic diversity and abundance of flora and fauna yield amazing hiking opportunities in the Sequoia and Kings National Parks. As self-titled adventure experts, we decided to take it upon ourselves and curate a list of the best hiking trails in the parks. Try them out and let us know what you think—enjoy!

    1. General Sherman Tree Trail - Hike to the world’s largest one-stem tree along the General Sherman Tree Trail. This family-friendly adventure circles around the monstrous sequoia that so famously adorns the Giant Forest Grove.
    2. Emerald Lake Trail - The Emerald Lake Trail boasts an unforgettable journey through the high country to several glacially formed lakes nestled amongst the granite oasis. This taxing trek is a crowd favorite!
    3. Miracle Hot Springs Trail - Indulge yourself in a natural spa treatment in the great outdoors along the Miracle Hot Springs Trail. Unlike most hikes, this walk is about the destination, not the journey. Soak in the warm hot springs above the Kern River and revel in the gorgeous scenery.
    4. Moro Rock Trail - Climb up some 350-steps to the top of the granite monolith that offers awe-inspiring views of the Great Western Divide. The Moro Rock Trail is a high-demand, high-reward type of adventure worth adding to your hiking itinerary.
    5. Heather Lake and Lakes Trail - The Heather Lake and Lakes Trail is another high-country hike that leads intrepid hikers through the granite landscape adorned with picture-perfect glacial lakes anchored by the craggy ridges of the Sierra Nevada.
    6. Remington Hot Springs Trail - Immerse yourself in the natural hot springs that sit above the Kern River along the Remington Hot Springs Trail. This family-friendly adventure is best enjoyed in the fall when the air is cool and crowds are thin.
    7. Hume Lake Loop - The Hume Lake Loop is a scenic trail that traces the shoreline of the shimmering reservoir—which offers plenty of outdoor pursuit opportunities in the summer months!
    8. Trail of 100 Giants - The Trail of 100 Giants travels through Long Grove Meadow, exhibiting the grandeur of some 1,500-year-old behemoth sequoia trees.
    9. Giant Forest Loop Trail - The Giant Forest Loop Trail is a fun family hike that meanders through the famous grove that is home to the world’s largest sequoia tree and the oldest known living sequoia at about 3,200 years old.
    10. Tokopah Falls Hike - The Tokopah Falls Hike demands a modest effort, climbing along the rocky banks of the Mable Fork of Kaweah River to the picturesque waterfalls.
    11. Crystal Cave Trail - Explore the cavern of marble polished by subterranean streams along the Crystal Cave Trail. This exciting adventure can only be enjoyed with a guide due to the area’s fragility.
    12. Heather Lake Trail - The Heather Lake Trail is a remarkable adventure to the glacially formed basin that sits above Tokopah Valley and the Watchtower Monolith. This alpine adventure is unrivaled in its beauty.
    13. Sunset Rock Hike - Just as the name hints, the Sunset Rock Trail boasts the perfect opportunity to enjoy the sun setting over the granite mountainscape. Short and scenic, this route can be enjoyed by the whole family.
    14. Zumwalt Meadow and Roaring River Falls Hike - Adventure to a stunning waterfall cascading through a smoothed canyon along the Zumwalt Meadow and Roaring River Falls Hike. This beautiful trail offers a diversity of scenery and is well worth exploring.
    15. Congress Trail - Offering sights of some of the world’s largest and oldest trees, the Congress Trail is unparalleled in its scenery. Stroll through the forest of sequoias decorated with carpets of lupines and ferns in the Giant Forest Grove.
    16. Marble Falls Trail - There is something incomparable to a waterfall hike, right? The Marble Falls Trail is a lovely adventure hidden in the Kaweah River Valley.
    17. Crescent and Log Meadow Trail - Wander alongside lush meadows decorated with a diversity of flora and fauna before escaping into dense communities of giant sequoias along the Crescent and Log Meadow Trail. This fun family hike is well worth a detour into the wilderness.
    18. General Grant Grove Trail - The General Grant Grove Trail is home to the world’s second-largest tree—the General Grant Tree. This loop trail travels through impressive stands of sequoias and redwoods, attracting plenty of visitors.
    19. Bullfrog Lake Trail - The Bullfrog Lake Trail is a challenging hike into the granite paradise adorned with countless alpine lakes. Put your stamina to the test and revel in the beauty of the high country.
    20. Mist Falls Hike - Explore the forested canyon of the South Fork Kings River to Mist Falls. This enchanting adventure exhibits breathtaking scenery of the mountainous landscape.

    When is the Best Time to Visit the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks?

    Due to their geographic location, the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks offer adventure pursuits year-round. The winter months see cold conditions, and the areas of high elevation get plenty of snow, wind, and storms. Though off-season excursions are equally as enchanting and far more secluded, there are inherent challenges to consider. Many roads are subject to seasonal closure, and snow chains or tires are required to safely navigate park roads during the snowy months.

    On the contrary, summer adventures enjoy warm weather and ideal road conditions, though you can expect crowded trails. We encourage visitors to explore in the spring and autumn for a more tranquil experience with comfortable weather. Whether you head out tomorrow or in two months, we can almost guarantee you will be impressed by the beauty of these national parks located on the foot of the Sierra Nevada.

    Other Outdoor Activities in the Sequoia and Kings National Parks

    The Sequoia and Kings National Parks are undoubtedly hiker’s oases, though outdoor pursuit experiences are not limited to just treks. With terrain comparable to Yosemite, canyoneering, climbing, and water recreation opportunities are abundant. Enjoy sightseeing from a canyon overlook or from atop a granite monolith, or dive down into a valley where you will likely find anglers, swimmers, or rafters enjoying the water.

    Additionally, the soaring crests and craggy canyons offer scrambling, bouldering, and canyoning for intrepid adventurers to enjoy. In the winter months, these parks enjoy snowy conditions—providing the opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The activities and opportunities to explore the great outdoors are limitless in the Sequoia and Kings National Parks.

    Frequently Asked Questions About the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

    What is the difference between Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park?

    The Sequoia National Park was established in 1890 and the Kings Canyon National Park was established in 1940, but the two parks have been jointly administered by the National Parks Service since 1943.

    Are the Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks separate?

    Though technically two separate national parks, both the Kings Canyon National Park and Sequoia National Park are jointly administered, and admission to one park grants access to the other.

    When are the Sequoia and Kings National Parks open?

    The Sequoia and Kings National Parks are open 24/7, year-round. Though it is important to note that there are seasonal road closures due to snow.

    What is Kings Canyon National Park known for?

    Kings Canyon National Park is most famously known for its similar terrain to Yosemite, and as home to Redwood Canyon, the largest remaining grove of sequoia trees in the world.

    What cities are near the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks?

    Kings Canyon National Park is near Fresno, California, and Sequoia National Park is near Visalia, CA.

    Awesome Adventure Tours in the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

    Check out the Sequoia and Kings Canyon 6-day hiking tour that exhibits the best of what these fantastic national parks have to offer. Perhaps you want to explore another corner of California? Head to our website and scroll through our other amazing California Tours to satisfy your thirst for adventure.

    Find Other Amazing Hiking Regions in California

    The Sequoia and Kings National Parks are remarkable areas of wilderness full of wonderment and scenery awaiting your exploration. Located in California’s southern Sierra Nevada, the parks occupy a landscape similar to that of Yosemite’s— characterized by deep canyons, dense communities of chaparral scrubs, sharp-crested mountains, rushing rivers, towering sequoias, granite monoliths, and rolling foothills, but with a fraction of the crowds.

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    Best Hikes in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

    Showing 21 to 40 of 92
      Open details for Mist Falls Hike

      Mist Falls Hike

      Moderate
      14.0 km
      268 m
      3-4.5h

      The Mist Falls Hike is a must-add to your adventure itinerary when exploring the Kings Canyon National Park. This beautiful trail travels through the forested canyon of the South Fork Kings River to an enchanting waterfall. This lovely trail will not disappoint—trust us.

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      Open details for Zumwalt Meadow Trail

      Zumwalt Meadow Trail

      Very Easy
      2.4 km
      48 m
      0.5-1h

      Explore the Zumwalt Meadow Trail and you will be rewarded with awe-inspiring scenery. This family-friendly adventure in the Kings Canyon National Park offers wonderful views of the lush meadow, the South Fork Kings River, and the bounding granite cliffs of Cedar Grove.

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      Open details for Grizzly Falls Trail

      Grizzly Falls Trail

      Very Easy
      0.2 km
      6 m
      0.5h

      Just steps away from the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway, the Grizzly Falls Trail offers the perfect opportunity to get out into the fresh air and stretch your legs. Explore a stand of mixed conifers before the path opens to the mesmerizing 23 m waterfall.

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      Open details for Redwood Canyon and Redwood Creek Hike

      Redwood Canyon and Redwood Creek Hike

      Moderate
      16.9 km
      628 m
      4.5-6.5h

      The Redwood Canyon and Redwood Creek Hike is a scenic adventure in the Kings Canyon National Park featuring a beautiful creek, giant sequoias, dogwoods, and grazing cows. A revered backpacking route, this trail can be easily managed as a demanding day-hike.

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      Open details for Panoramic Point to Park Ridge Hike

      Panoramic Point to Park Ridge Hike

      Moderate
      7.9 km
      320 m
      2.5-3h

      The Panoramic Point to Park Ridge Hike is full of wonderment and amazing scenery. Located in Kings Canyon Park, this wonderful adventure offers breathtaking views of the Great Western Divide, nearby crests of the Sierra Nevada, and encompassing woodlands.

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      Open details for Big Stump Trail

      Big Stump Trail

      Very Easy
      2.6 km
      59 m
      0.5-1h

      The Big Stump Trail is an amazing adventure that exhibits the grandeur of the area’s sequoias with the famous Mark Twain Stump. Wander through a grove of redwoods and mixed pines to the giant stump beckoning to be used as a dance floor.

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      Open details for Potwisha Campground Trail

      Potwisha Campground Trail

      Easy
      2.9 km
      49 m
      0.5-1h

      The Potwisha Campground Trail is an easy-going nature trail in the Sequoia National Park that travels along a meandering river. Wander through a mixed-conifer forest whilst enjoying views of the bounding granite crests.

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      Open details for Panoramic Point Trail

      Panoramic Point Trail

      Very Easy
      0.8 km
      30 m
      0.5h

      Offering unrivalled views of the Great Western Divide, Hume, and Kings Canyon, the Panoramic Point Trail is a must add to your adventure itinerary. Easy going and quick, this route can be enjoyed by the whole family. Wander through the mixed woodlands up to the scenic overlook and revel in the grandeur of the wilderness.

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      Open details for Cedar Grove Overlook Hike

      Cedar Grove Overlook Hike

      Hard
      6.1 km
      492 m
      2.5-3.5h

      The Cedar Grove Overlook is a must-add to your Kings Canyon National Park adventure itinerary. This epic excursion ascends the canyon walls through mixed conifer forests and montane meadows to a spell-binding overlook of the granite mountainscape.

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      Open details for Hart Tree and Fallen Goliath Loop Hike

      Hart Tree and Fallen Goliath Loop Hike

      Moderate
      11.7 km
      398 m
      3-4.5h

      The Redwood Grove is the world’s largest sequoia grove, and the Hart Tree and Fallen Goliath Loop Hike exhibits the grandeur of the old-growth forest. Explore the amazing community of sequoias interspersed with lush meadows and a diversity of fauna.

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      Open details for Mount Gould Trail

      Mount Gould Trail

      Very Hard
      14.5 km
      1,150 m
      5.5-8h

      Put your stamina to the test and indulge in unrivaled alpine scenery along the Mount Gould Trail. This demanding adventure rewards its conquerors with breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains adorned with several glacial basins.

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      Open details for Big Baldy Ridge Trail

      Big Baldy Ridge Trail

      Moderate
      10.3 km
      434 m
      3-4h

      The Big Baldy Ridge Trail is an amazing adventure that exhibits a diversity of flora and fauna in addition to breathtaking views of Kings Canyon and the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Demanding a modest effort, this route requires some stamina and navigational skills.

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      Open details for Buena Vista Trail

      Buena Vista Trail

      Easy
      3.2 km
      122 m
      1-1.5h

      The Buena Vista Trail boasts an enchanting experience in the Kings Canyon National Park. Wander through the mixed-coniferous forest adorned with granite outcrops to the epic overlook of Kings Canyon. Offering a panoramic view of the High Sierra, this trek is not one to miss!

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      Open details for Dead Giant Loop Trail

      Dead Giant Loop Trail

      Easy
      4.5 km
      137 m
      1-1.5h

      The Dead Giant Loop Trail is a family-friendly adventure through Grant Grove that boasts a magical experience. Explore the community of giant sequoia trees bound by lush undergrowth and enjoy the sights of Sequoia Lake nestled amongst the Sierra Nevadas.

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      Open details for Don Cecil Trail

      Don Cecil Trail

      Very Hard
      15.0 km
      1,018 m
      5.5-7.5h

      Wander through a forest of sequoias and mixed coniferous adorned with carpets of ferns and wildflowers as you hike the Don Cecil Trail. This lovely but challenging trail climbs up the slopes of Lookout Peak, offering wonderful views of the High Sierra along the way.

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      Open details for Seville Lake Trail

      Seville Lake Trail

      Hard
      20.8 km
      694 m
      5.5-8h

      The Seville Lake Trail would make a wonderful addition to your hiking itinerary in the Kings Canyon National Park. This lovely path meanders through mixed woodlands and granite gardens up to a picture-perfect lake framed by Kettle Peak.

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      Open details for Sugar Bowl and Redwood Creek Loop Trail

      Sugar Bowl and Redwood Creek Loop Trail

      Moderate
      10.5 km
      464 m
      3-4.5h

      The Sugar Bowl and Redwoods Creek Loop Trail is a wonderful adventure that is well worth the detour into the Kings Canyon National Park. This lovely path explores the largest grove of giant sequoia trees on earth—the Redwood Mountain Grove.

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      Open details for Zumwalt Meadow and Kanawyers Trail Loop

      Zumwalt Meadow and Kanawyers Trail Loop

      Easy
      11.1 km
      141 m
      2.5-3.5h

      The Zumwalt Meadow and Kanawyers Trail Loop is a lovely nature trail amid lush greenery and colorful conifers on the Kings Canyon valley floor. Explore the diversity of flora and fauna and revel in the grandeur of the looming granite summits.

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      Open details for Redwood Canyon Loop Hike

      Redwood Canyon Loop Hike

      Easy
      15.8 km
      610 m
      4.5-6.5h

      The Redwood Canyon Loop Hike is an amazing trail through a sea of sequoia trees. Get an amazing workout in as you explore the community of sequoias and be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife! We love this magical adventure, and you will too.

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      Open details for Manzanita and Azalea Trail

      Manzanita and Azalea Trail

      Easy
      6.9 km
      275 m
      2-3h

      The Manzanita and Azalea Trail is a charming adventure that is easily accessible from Wilsonia in the Kings Canyon National Park. Wander around the perimeter of the village amid the lush flora, including flowering Azalea and Manzanita.

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