This article discusses the absolutely best things to do in Kings Canyon National Park, one of the three parks located in the Sierra Nevada.
There are three National Parks in California’s Sierra Nevada.
And… Kings Canyon National Park
Chances are that if you are not familiar with the area, you have not heard about the last park on the list. Actually, I know Californians who have never heard of the park even though it is adjacent and operated jointly with Sequoia (the two parks are administered as one unit).
To put things in perspective, Sequoia gets about one million visitors per year and Kings Canyon gets only half of that. And, I have a suspicion that most of those visitors concentrate on the sequoia groves located close to the park’s entrance. Several years ago, Sunset Magazine included the Park in its list of the “Sierra’s Hidden Gems.”
In all honesty, I wasn’t sure what I was set to discover. We are on a quest to visit all of California’s National Parks. Therefore, we allocated a day to Kings Canyon.
Well, I am glad we visited because the park leaves you pretty much speechless at certain moments. My list of things to do in Kings Canyon National Park will help you to plans your own adventure.
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Location
Kings Canyon National Park is located 240 miles from Los Angeles, 202 miles from San Jose, and 238 miles from San Francisco.
The major city located close to the park is Fresno (54 miles or an hour away). The Yosemite Valley is located 140 or 3 hours away.
Given the distances from big cities and other attractions I would recommend spending two or three days in the area.
What to Know Before your Visit
Kings Canyon National Park is divided into two main areas.
The Grant Grove area is located in the “high” part of the park (elevation 6,500 feet). This area is the most commonly visited since it is not that far from the limits of Sequoia National Park. It counts with a Visitor’s Center, village and campgrounds.
The Cedar Grove area is located in the “low” area of the park (elevation 4,600 feet). This part is located at the bottom of Kings Canyon (the park’s main road snakes through the canyon). Few people make it here. This area has the same facilities as the Grant Grove area.
In addition, you have the Hume Lake area which can be accessed through the park roads but it is located on a mix of private and United State Forest Service land.
Where to Stay Inside the Park
For those who do not want to deal with camping, there are accommodations in both areas of the park.
The Grant Grove Cabins & John Muir Lodge offers hotel rooms, cabins, and restaurant services all year long. Expect to pay $40-$100 for a cabin and $115-$200 for a room.
The Cedar Grove Lodge offers room and restaurant services. Expect a motel level of service. Prices start at $150 per night.
In Sequoia National Park, you can find the beautiful Wuksachi Lodge. Accommodation on United States Forest Service and private lands are also available.
Similar to campsites, lodging inside the camp sells out fast. You need to make reservations with time. Reservations inside the park must be made through www..visitsequoia.com/lodging.
Where to Stay Outside the Park
There are some hotels and lodges on Route 245 and Route 180, near the park entrance.
You can check out the following:
- Sequoia Forest Retreat – On this property, you can stay in an RV with a queen bed, private bathroom, Wi-Fi, and flat-screen. The main house in the property is rented as well but is nearly impossible to find an open date. Check prices and book now!
- Sequoia Resort – This “resort” consists of 4 houses (all different) rented to the public. Each rental provides access to a private lake, expansive deck, outdoor dining area, BBQ facilities, garden a fireplace. A two-night minimum stay is required. Check prices and book now!
- The Branded Calf Bed & Breakfast – This amazing place is rated exceptional because of the numerous amenities and close proximity to the park’s entrance (30 minutes drive). Breakfast is included. There are many hiking and biking opportunities in the area. Check prices and book now!
- St. Anna’s House – Even though the rooms are on the simpler side, it is difficult to beat the price and location of this place. Breakfast is included. You can make use of the terrace, garden, or picnic spot or book activities such as horseback riding, fishing, and canoeing. Check prices and book now!
A lot of people stay in Fresno when visiting the park. It is about 60 miles to the Grant Grove area.
Here are some excellent places to stay in Fresno:
- Days Inn by Wyndham Yosemite Area – For the price, this is one of the best options in Fresno. The room comes with a fridge, microwave, coffee/tea machine, desk, and sleek decor. The front desk is open 24 hours and their concierge service can answer your questions about the area. Check prices and book now!
- Best Western Village Inn – Centrally located, the Best Western offers comfortable beds, hot breakfast, ample reception and gathering area, a pool, and family rooms. Check prices and book now!
- Hotel Piccadilly – This reasonably priced hotel, with excellent ratings, has fully equipped rooms, a pool, restaurant, bar, free parking, free Wi-Fi, and beautifully manicured gardens. Check prices and book now!
Sightseeing Gear
Make sure you take the correct gear to the pack. Here is an idea of what I have taken:
- Hiking Shoes – Wearing the right shoes is essential when hiking. I recommend investing in a good pair. Merrell shoes have always been good for my crooked feet. Not long ago, I was using tennis shoes to hit the trails. That was until I hurt my left foot. Since then, hiking shoes have done wonders for me. >Check out my hiking shoes
- My husband is more of a fan of the Salomon brand when it comes to hiking. >Check out Salomon hiking shoes
- Hiking Socks – Wool hiking socks provide support, cushion, and prevent blisters. EnerWear sells an excellent 4-pair set for a good price. >Check them out here
- Insoles – Insoles are another way to protect your feet when hiking. They do a great job absorbing shock. Walk Hero’s insoles have some of the best ratings in the market. >Get them here
- Crossbody Bag – I take the minimum with me when I go on trails. I keep everything organized in a small Herschel crossbody bag. >Buy this great crossbody bag here
- Day Pack – My husband prefers to take a small backpack to carry drinks and essentials. >Buy a lightweight, water resistant day pack here
- Hiking Poles – Hiking poles are lifesavers on trails with an incline (more if you have wobbly knees). TrailBuddy’s trekking poles are such a great help. >Check these hiking poles
- Sun Block – Do not leave the house (or the car) without applying sunblock. I repeat, always wear sunblock when outdoors. >Buy sun block here
- Lip Balm with Sunscreen – Protect your lips by applying a balm with sunscreen. >Get one of the best lip balms here
- Wide Brim Hat – A wide brim hat is a great way to protect your scalp, face, and neck. The ones manufactured by FURTALK come with an anti-UV function. >Buy this amazing hat here
- Sunglasses – These are another must when it comes to protecting from the sun. A polarized, sporty pair works better for hiking. >Take a look at this wonderful pair
- Water Bottle – Do not forget to bring water! Keep yours cold by taking a beautiful Hydro Flask water bottle. >Check out the insane options her
- Snacks – It is a good idea to carry snacks such as granola bars, protein bars, trail mix, nut, and jerky
- Camera – I have never gotten used to taking pictures exclusively with my phone. I prefer to use the Sony Alpha a6000. It is compact and takes gorgeous pictures. >Buy Sony Camera here
- Tripod – A compact tripod to take your photos and videos to a different level. >>Check out this popular option here
- Portable Power Bank – It is a pain to keep phones charged on beach trips. Having a power bank is a lifesaver. The Anker portable charger can charge a phone 5 times. >Buy this incredible power bank here
Things to Do in Kings Canyon National Park
There are plenty of things to do in Kings Canyon National Park. I recommend not rushing since you want to savor the glorious views!
General Grant Grove
As the header implies, explore this area to take a look at General Grant, the second largest tree in the world. He used to be the third until the tree that used to be the second-largest lost the upper half of its trunk. It is a bit confusing since the interpretative signs in the park still describe him as the third largest.
General Grant is famous for being proclaimed the “Nation’s Christmas Tree.”
The other interesting thing about General Grant is that he is considered a baby. Well, a sequoia baby of only 1,700 years. The oldest sequoias are about 3,500 years. The moisture, nutrients, and sunlight conditions on his location are ideal for growth. That is why he has beaten many older trees in terms of size.
General Grant is connected to other trees by a paved, ⅓ of a mile (0.5 km) trail. The marked trail is full of stops where visitors can learn about the trees, the area’s history and even, how trees in the vicinity were cut and taken to the East Coast. The fallen trunks were used to prove the veracity of pioneer’s tales related to humongous trees found in California.
Drive to the Kings Canyon Panoramic Point
Once you pass Grant Grove, you are going to find Panoramic Point Road on your right. Once you are there, keep going for two miles till the end of the road.
From a parking area, you only have to walk 0.5 miles to a scenic overlook from where you can observe a pine-covered valley, Hume Lake, and the tall peaks of the Sierra.
If hiking is your thing, you can walk to the Park Ridge Fire Lookout (2.4 miles, one way).
Local Knowledge Note: It is “the Sierra” (singular) not “the Sierras” (plural). The Sierra Nevada (named after the Sierra Nevada in Southern Spain) runs for 400 miles.
The Main Attraction: Kings River Canyon
Once you are done admiring the mighty sequoias, start the slow descent to the lower part of the park.
When I visited, after seeing the “Kings Canyon Scenic Byway” sign, a sharp cliff appeared on my right side. My husband stopped to take a better look and noticed I was starting to get anxious.
He asked me if I wanted to continue. I mumbled a hesitant “yes.” I thought we were going to pass the cliffy areas fast.
I was wrong.
Shortly after the stop, we took a left curve and that is when I saw the deepest abysm I have seen in my life.
The sky was mostly gray and sunset was upon us. A straight line of sun rays was passing through the clouds and lighting the left wall of the canyon. It was a transfixing image. I wasn’t expecting that at all.
As you can imagine, I was holding to dear life in my seat. All I could think of was a video I saw on YouTube about a bus transiting one of the world’s most dangerous roads (in China). Why do you need to go to China if we have equally scary stuff in the United States (no railing separating you from the bottom)?
But, I survived the steep descent to the canyon’s floor. Our initial idea was to drive the road and return to camp near the park’s entrance. I told my husband I couldn’t take the drive back to back. We ended up camping close to Cedar Grove Visitor’s Center.
The subsequent photos were taken the following day when we were getting out.
This area of the park protects the headwaters of the South and Middle Forks of the Kings River and the South Fork of the San Joaquin River. Both the South and Middle Forks of the Kings Rivers have extensive glacial canyons. One portion of the South Fork canyon, known as the Kings Canyon, gives the entire park its name. Kings Canyon, with a maximum depth of 8,200 feet (2,500 m), is one of the deepest canyons in the United States.
A few miles outside the park, Kings Canyon deepens and steepens becoming arguably the deepest canyon in North America for a short distance. At the highest part of the road, the canyon appears so deep that it is almost impossible to see the river at the bottom. I had to use the camera’s maximum zoom to capture the following photos.
Check out how the road meanders on one side of the canyon. Super scary!
The neat thing is that the junction of the South and Middle Forks of the Kings River can be observed from the road.
The river gets more visible as soon as you get closer to the bottom of the canyon.
There is a point where the river can be observed at road level. The power of this river cannot be described in words. He moves at full force with an eternal impetuous sound.
Note: This may not be a pleasant drive for people with a fear of altitude. Also, motion sickness may occur.
Grizzly Falls
After the main attraction, it is time to take it easy and admire the scenery. A 0.1-mile trail located next to the road takes you to a 75 feet waterfall. I got another taste of nature’s power in here. It was nearly impossible to get to the base of the fall due to the force of the water.
Roaring River Falls
This is another short but powerful waterfall that can be reached by a 0.3 paved trail. Granite peaks can be observed from the trail (remember to look back).
Zumwalt Meadow
Zumwalt Meadow is the most scenic part of the Kings Canyon valley floor. The woods around the meadow are noticeably more lush and green than the woods in the rest of the valley, which is by and large rather sparse and without ground cover.
In addition, the meadow is at the steepest and most dramatic part of the canyon, situated between two tall, nearly vertical granite cliff faces. A one-and-a-half-mile loop circles the meadow and is one of the more popular trails in the park.
After the trailhead to the meadow, a short drive will take you to the road end. To get out of the park, you have to drive to the high altitude area using the same road used to get to the bottom.
Hume Lake
At one point, we detoured to Hume Lake. This is actually a reservoir used to store logs for an adjacent mill and supply water for a flume used to transport the cut lumber. I suggest taking a look at the lake before leaving the park.
The lake was purchased by the Forest Service and it is used for recreation nowadays. Activities such as boating, fishing, hiking, and swimming are permitted.
Hike a Short or Long Trail
Like most National Parks, Kings Canyon has an array of trails suitable for all ages and tastes. I have already provided details about some walks but want to elaborate on the topic.
Hikes that can be accessed from the Grant Grove area:
- North Grove Loop (easy) – The trailhead is located at the General Grant tree parking lot. The loop has a length of 1.5 miles.
- Buena Vista Peak (easy) – This 2-mile round-trip hike takes you scenic views of the tall trees in the park. The trailhead is located 6 miles from the Grant Grove Village.
- Redwood Canyon (moderate) – This area of the park is one of the largest sequoia groves in existence. With 16 miles of trails, the area is suitable for short and long hikes.
- Big Baldy Ridge (moderate) – As the name implies, the trail takes you to a summit with views of Redwood Canyon. The trail is about 4 miles roundtrip with a 600 feet elevation gain.
Hikes that can be accessed from the Cedar Grove area:
- Zumwalt Meadow Loop (easy) – This 1.6 loop will take you around an area that has been called “mini-Yosemite.”
- Zumwalt Meadow to Roaring River Falls (or vice versa, easy) – You can drive between these two spots or you can choose to walk. The trail connecting them is about 5 miles (this is one way).
- Road’s End to the Baily Bridge (easy) – Once you reach the end of the paved road, you can further explore the area by foot by completing an easy 4.7 miles loop.
- Knapp’s Cabin – This 2-mile hike takes you to a small fishing cabin
- Don Cecil Trail (hard) – This was the trail used to reach the bottom of the canyon before the park’s main road was completed in 1939. The trail length is about 9 miles.
- Sheep Creek Cascade (moderate to hard) – Instead of completing the entire Don Cecil Trail, you can walk 1 mile to the Sheep Creek Cascade and walk back to the trailhead (2 miles roundtrip).
- Mist Falls (moderate to hard) – This 9-mile trail takes hikers to one of the largest waterfalls in the area. Most of the trail is flat. The elevation is gained on the last mile.
- Cedar Grove Overlook (moderate) – The 5-mile (roundtrip) trail takes 3 to 4 hours to complete (be prepared since elevation gain is the real deal here).
The Rae Lakes Loop, one of the top backpacking trails of the Sierra Nevada, is accessed from the park.
Take a Guided Horseback Ride
Horseback rides are offered in both areas of the park. The Grant Grove Stables and the Cedar Grove Packing Station have multiple offerings, from 1-hour rides to multi-day trips.
This is a great way to cover a lot of ground and see areas of the park that are difficult to access by foot. Short rides are around $40-$70 per person.
Camping in Kings Canyon National Park
Campsites are categorized by area.
Near Grant Grove (on the high area of the park), you can stay on the following campsites:
- Azalea
- Crystal Springs
- Sunset
On the Cedar Grove area (on the low area of the park or the bottom of the canyon), the following campsites are open to visitors:
- Sentinel
- Sheep Creek
- Canyon View
- Moraine
Most campsites operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. During the high season (summer) and holiday weekends, try to arrive early if you are planning to camp. You need cash to pay on-site.
The Sierra parks are bear country. Read and follow instructions at all times.
Things to Do in Kings Canyon – Details
The park has two visitor centers: Grant Grove and Cedar Grove. Both offer a restaurant (serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, expect simple fare), a store, restrooms, and other amenities.
From the Giant Forest area in Sequoia National Park, driving time is about one hour to Grant Grove. From the Grant Grove, it is about an hour to Cedar Grove.
Carry water and snacks (preferably, high in protein snacks) with you.
The road connecting the two park areas is no joke. Exercise caution, drive slowly and stop only in designated areas.
Cell phone service is limited or non-existed. I recommend picking up a map in one of the Visitor’s Center. The signage is excellent inside the park.
WI-fi is available at the Grant Grove restaurant.
Fill up your car’s gas tank before heading to the parks since there are no stations there.
Verify road closure status during winter.
In my opinion, this park is unique in terms of its views. I recommend visiting it in conjunction with Sequoia National Park (do not skip it!).
Sequoia National Park
If you are visiting Sequoia National Park too (if you are in the area, I am sure you do), I recommend reading my posts about the different areas in the park.
- Tokopak Falls
- General Sherman – The largest tree in the world (in terms of volume)
- Moro Rock
Have you visited Kings Canyon National Park? What are your suggestions for the top things to do?
Pin “Things to Do in Kings Canyon National Park” for later?
Jeanna says
I wasn’t aware of this spectacular park. The falls and trees are incredible.
Ruth says
I am glad you found out about the park thru this post. I am telling you, not a lot of people are aware of it.
LH says
I’m excited to see both parks in two weeks, never been to this area of California.
Photo Cache says
Sequioa and Kings Canyon (the twins as I call them) are perfect destinations for those longing to be with the giant trees. Not too far from here, along the Kings River, we have rented a cabin that formerly housed the park ranger and we had the entire place all to our own. It is awesome. If you want to get away this is the place. There’s also a small beach to get some sun.
Ruth says
You may need to tell me about this place. We saw all the cabins close to Sequoia National Park entrance. I would love to stay in the area.
image-in-ing: weekly photo linky says
Such a lovely location – and wonderfully shot! thanks for taking us along… and for sharing at http://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2016/08/sweetheart-in-sepia.html
Ruth says
Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for stopping by.
Murthy says
Just awesome..that water falls.Have a nice day.
Ruth says
Thanks! The waterfalls are one of my favorite things about these parks.
Lady Fi says
Gorgeous shots. Those falls are stunning!
Ruth says
Awww, thanks for your comment. I am a waterfall lover, so, I do not mind bumping into one or two.
Ahila says
Thanks for sharing your travel to Kings canyon park. I had heard of Yosemite and Sequoia, but not Kings before. Lovely photos. #MondayEscapes
Ruth says
Thanks Ahila! It is my pleasure to share this beautiful park.
Gaelyn says
You just put Kings Canyon higher on my list. I love those kind of roads, especially the magnificent views. I could almost feel the power of the waterfalls through your wonderful images. I’m guessing this park is not as busy as some.
Ruth says
There were barely people when we visited (and we were there on the Memorial Day weekend). At some points, we were the only ones on the road. I like to explore under those conditions.
Johanna says
Spectacular scenery, Ruth! Where to start? 🙂 🙂
Ruth says
I know! The possibilities are endless. I have seen pictures of gorgeous lakes on the park. Would love to visit those.
Corey with fifi + hop says
Stunning! have to admit I’m not all that familiar with this park so it was good to read your post. We’re off to Acadia National Park in a few weeks on the East Coast – I really wanted to visit a park for the centennial:).
Ruth says
I have seen pictures of Acadia and it is stunning. Hope you guys have a wonderful time.
Rosie Hill (@EcoGitesLenault) says
Fabulous scenery and I would love to see those giant sequoias #MondayEscapes
Ruth says
The sequoias take your breath away. They are huge! People didn’t believe trees that huge existed. That is why some were cut and shipped to the East Coast.
Van @ Snow in Tromso says
I absolutely love that view on the canyon! I’ve never seen one myself so far but I have plans to visit a town close by this autumn where there have one of few Norwegian canyons – can’t wait!
Ruth says
Canyons like this are impressive. Scary but impressive.
Sharon says
We’ve talked about going here next spring, so your images and information and so helpful and inspiring! I went to high school camp at Hume Lake — great memories!
Ruth says
I saw several “camps” at Hume Lake. It will be nice to stay there. We weren’t able to walk around the lake since some tree cutting was taking place.
sophie nadeau says
Lovely photos; I’ve always wanted to see the Sequoia trees in real life- they must be so impressive!
Ruth says
Yes, they are impressive. More when you see from afar people or cars next to them.
Lolo says
Tis true! Many Californians haven’t heard of it, myself included! So thanks for sharing! I’ll be pinning this for the next time we are home! #WanderfulWednesday
Ruth says
Some of my friends had no idea where the park is located even though they have lived in California their entire life.
Oman says
Just wow. How I wish to be there 🙂
Ruth says
Thanks! I know the feeling. I rather be at the park than at home or work.
Sharon says
Your post is as expansive as the views! What a tour. What a place. I’ve been on some scary roads in Central America. And narrow trails on the big island. The memories are the best part. When you can breathe again.
Ruth says
When you can breathe again… That is the trick. So grateful to have visited this park but I really freaked out while there.
Minoru says
Wow! The nice collection of beautiful parks. I want to go these parks near future. Thanks for sharing.
Ruth says
Thanks! Hope you make it one day.
Lydia C. Lee says
Those Grizzly Falls are glorious. Great pics.
Ruth says
Those falls surprised me. They were so easy to reach and so powerful.
Denyse Whelan Blogs says
What I love about photography blogs is that I get to see places in the world i might never travel to nor experience. This post today has done this for me. Thank you so much for a wondrous sight and story about this place in USA. I’ve come over from Jen at Pierced Wonderings and added my blog. I shall add your linky back at mine. Thank you!
Ruth says
Thanks a lot Denyse! I think it is great to be part of a community who visit ans share places like this. As you mentioned, we may not be able to visit every corner of the world but at least we can take a peek at wonderful places.
budget jan says
I would love to camp in this park. The views are grand. I loved the waterfall shots and the meadow. Sounds like a scary/exciting drive. As a passenger I think I would have to close my eyes occasionally or a lot!
Ruth says
We camped in the lower part of the park. It was great but you had to be careful with the bears. That was a first for me.
Kerri says
This is my kind of day trip. I love going to places where other people don’t go, even if it’s more out of the way. I love to be able to explore in peace and you feel like you’ve found something special too.
Those waterfalls are magnificent! I wish we had more in Belgium, but we just have the one little one, which I’ve yet to visit!
~ K
Ruth says
I do not do well in crowded areas (more when people are pushing you and elbowing you). So, yes, I prefer to have my space and stroll around less visited areas.
Isabel says
National parks are one of my favorite things!
Ruth says
We are on the same page. I love them too.
Nancie says
Hi Ruth! What a gorgeous area. Love the trees, and waterfalls. One of these days I will get to California to see your fantastic parks and canyons. Thanks for hosting this week. #TPThursday
Ruth says
I know you are fan of places like this. Do come to California. There is a lot to see and do.
Alex says
Wow – those roads!? I’m not sure I could’ve driven them! However, the rest sounds right up my tree lined street – It’s on my bucket list to see the Giant Sequoias one day. #FlyAwayFriday
Ruth says
My husband was the one driving because I cannot do this for sure. It is a bit difficult to enjoy the panorama when you are scarred but I am glad I visited.
Rachel Heller says
I visited King’s Canyon once in combination with Sequoia, but I only remember seeing the General Grant tree, not going down into the canyon. It looks just as beautiful as Yosemite, only with fewer people! Gorgeous pictures, by the way!
Ruth says
I think not a lot of people make it to the canyon area. As I said, I had no idea on how the park was going to look. We just continued the road an stumbled on all these marvelous sights.
Gemma says
I love the idea of showcasing one of the lesser know National Parks – you’re right, I had never heard of it. But it’s on my radar now! Those height and width of those trees is incredible – the photo with the parking lot included really put them into perspective! The waterfalls and canyons are beautiful too.
Ruth says
I love blogging about places that are not that well known. I think people who appreciate travel and discovery will enjoy visiting them.
Juliette @ Snorkels To Snow says
Oh these trees! It’s hard to think they are so old! What a magnificent and dramatic landscape.
Ruth says
That is right! It is hard to imagine something is 2,000 to 3,000 years old. It is great to take a look at they taking into consideration that.
Courtney says
I haven’t been to Kings Canyon NP yet. I was aware of the park, but I wasn’t quite sure what it was like. Your photos have given me a better idea of what to expect. When I finally get the chance to do a big California roadtrip, I’ll be sure to visit every NP, including this one!
Ruth says
I was in the same bandwagon. I was aware of the park but not sure what I was going to find there. Now, I know and am happy to share my experience.
Electra says
Simply spectacular!!
Ruth says
Thanks Electra!
Charlene says
Wow, what an amazing park with very interesting features! I would love to hike there. I’m adding it to my bucket list.
Ruth says
I hope you make it there one day. It is a perfect location for those who enjoy hiking.
Mary{The World Is A Book} says
We love Kings Canyon! We’ve visited a few times and I really like that there’s not as many people compared to Yosemite. That drive makes me a bit nervous too but those views are amazing. Try to visit Boyden Cave the next time you go. It’s got some incredible formations.
Ruth says
I thought about visiting the caves but I desisted since it was Memorial Day Weekend. But, I want to do it in the future.
Kreete Tokman says
Thank you for this post! I love reading about nature and specially when it comes to the mountains. I would love to come over to see it one day. There would be so many places in the US i’d love to go! Keep up the good work!
Ruth says
Thanks Kreete. I am glad you enjoyed the post. I love the outdoors and wish I would have more time to visit different places.
David says
I opened this thinking it would be about the Kings Canyon in Australia, but I was pleasantly surprised. The park looks beautiful, especially the waterfalls and lake. Great place to get amongst nature. Nice one! #TheWeeklyPostcard
Ruth says
It is funny that there is a park with the same name in Australia (down to the S in Kings). It has popped up numerous times while I was researching the article. Great you liked the article.
Michelle | michwanderlust says
Another amazing find, Ruth! Your posts always inspire me to go outdoors more. Such variety of landscapes within one park. The giant sequoias are a sight to behold, and Kings Canyon really lives up to its name! I can empathise with how you felt about that cliff with no railing – I encountered a similar road in Gran Canaria and it was nerve-wrecking! Thankfully, all’s well that ends well.
Ruth says
Right! I saw your photos of Gran Canaria and noticed a lot of cliffs. I mean the moments of worry and fear are worthwhile because of the glorious views you usually see when visiting places like these.
Jim ~ ReflectionsEnroute says
I haven’t been to King’s Canyon since I was a teenager, yet is one of my absolute favorite parks. Thanks for bringing me back after so many years! I can’t believe they don’t have a guard rail on that road, though. Yikes! #wkendtravelinspiration
Ruth says
They have a thick wall in other places in Sequoia. But, I guess that area is more transited than the scenic route in Kings Canyon. I hope there ha snot been many accidents on the road.
Nicola says
Wow what dramatic scenery. It looks amazing.
Ruth says
Thanks Nicola! I am so glad you liked the post.
Merlinda Little (Glimmer of Hope) says
Stunning places! I wish I can visit esp the falls! Just majestic and amazing. #photofriday
Ruth says
Seems like you a fall fan too. I love places full of waterfalls.
eileen g says
This is the great things about the National Parks. there are so many of them and when you find the won that is stunning and not overrun with tourists it’s amazing.
Ruth says
You are so right. And, there are several like that in California (which is amazing).
Anda says
I miss Kings Canyon. You just gave me a great idea for a long week-end. I have a new puppy and I think she will be thrilled to run around in this beautiful forest. Do you know if dogs are allowed in the park?
Ruth says
Not sure if dogs are allowed in the parks and trails. I know I saw several but you know how sometimes people do not follow instructions. On the other hand, some of these trails are so low volume that I do not think somebody will notice.
Kathy says
Wow what an amazing place. The scenery is breathtaking and those towering trees are miraculous.
Ruth says
The sequoias are so wonderful. I would love to visit more groves.
Sally@Toddlers on Tour says
You’re right I had never heard of King’s Canyon and after seeing your stunning photos I don’t understand why. I think it is far more stunning than Yosemite (which I have visited).
I did however have a little smile as you described yourself clinging to the car seat. I have done this as well whilst knowing full well that should the vehicle go over the cliff holding onto the seat will not help 🙂
Ruth says
The scenery is very similar to Yosemite but the canyon itself make it stand out (that is something the other park does not have). I cling to everything I can. I know it doesn’t make a difference but I just can’t help it.
Natasha says
Amazing photos here Ruth, and so much to see and do! I’ve bookmarked this so that if I ever do get to travel there one day I can use this as an itinerary! 😀 General Grant has always been on my list of places to visit because it ticks off all of my botanical favourites boxes, and I love those big sequoia trees, they’re stunning! Grizzly Falls also looks stunning – beautiful! – Tasha
Ruth says
I think California would be your botanical paradise because we have the largest trees by volume, the tallest trees and the oldest trees. I still have to see the tallest and oldest. Thanks for your nice words.
Lauren says
This park looks amazing! So much to see and do! Those trees are incredible and that waterfall looks amazing as well. I’ve never heard of Kings Canyon, but my parents are always looking for new parks to explore so I’ll have to pass this post along 😀
Ruth says
Oh yes! You have to tell them about this park. Plus, Sequoia is next door and Yosemite not that far away. They can go tree parks in one trip.
Ruth says
Stunning scenery. Love those waterfalls!
Ruth says
Aren’t they stunning? You wouldn’t believe how powerful they were when I visited.
Bumble Bee Mum says
I kept thinking the name Kings Canyon sounded very familiar but after seeing your photos, I’m pretty sure I didn’t go there when I was in US. Then it struck me that the Kings Canyon I visited was in Australia. -_- #WanderfulWednesday
Ruth says
That is true! It is a big coincidence that both parks have the exact same name even though they are very different. Would like to go to the one in Australia!
Wendy says
Thanks for the tips and photos of Kings Canyon. It goes on my list for our year when we RV through the US.
Ruth says
Wow! That is great. I would love to do an RV trip. Well, I guess I would be happy if I can travel with a small trailer or teardrop.
Jessica @ Independent Travel Cats says
Lovely post on King’s Canyon! I live in CA for 5 years so have indeed visited the park but only saw a small section and would love to return some day.
Ruth says
Hope you can go back to see more of the park. I am sure you will enjoy the sights.
Kana says
You always have the best places in California to blog about that I didn’t know existed, haha! Definitely bookmarking this for later! Thanks so much for joining us on #FlyAwayFriday!
Ruth says
It is my pleasure to help you with your wanderlust. More ideas to get going.
Chloe says
Omg SOO gorgeous! Those waterfalls are just absolutely beautiful!! Thank you for sharing on #FlyAwayFriday and cannot wait to see what you have to share at the next linkup!! Xo Chloe
Ruth says
Thanks Chloe! I am glad you enjoyed the post. Happy to share at the link party.
Paula McInerney says
One day we will have the time to explore some of these amazing parks in the US. Certainly diverse, and very interesting
Ruth says
Yes, you have to make plans to visit California. You will enjoy our National and State parks.
Michele {Malaysian Meanders} says
We really enjoyed our time in Kings Canyon NP. I remember looking at my photos afterwards and thinking how it didn’t do justice to the grandeur and scope of the scenery. The kids and I got motion sick driving down to the bottom, but a hike set everything all right. Looks like you had a great time… other than the fear of driving off the road.
Ruth says
I do not get motion sickness but I am afraid of heights. Glad things were ok for you guys. I was fine at after we passed the highest area.
Birgitta says
Magnificent landscape!!!
Ruth says
Thanks!
Ting at My Travel Monkey says
Great suggestions – Grizzly Falls look awesome! I would love to visit one day. #MondayEscapes
Ken Schneider says
Spectacular place! I visited Sequoia many years ago but do not remember King’s Canyon. That is quite a scary road. I must admit to some acrophobia– not as bad when I drive or look down but I really get anxious when watching someone standing (or worse, leaning over) at the edge of a precipice!
bettyl - NZ says
These are some amazing photos! Thanks for sharing, as I will probably never see them for myself. Like you, I am not really thrilled with roads that aren’t relatively flat. My ‘adventure’ gene was left out of my DNA, I think!
Birgitta says
Amazing park and many good shots!
Eileen says
Hello, it is a beautiful park. I love the trees and the waterfalls. I have been to Kings Canyon years ago but I barely remember the visit. Your photos and post are wonderful. Happy Wednesday, enjoy your day!
Minoru says
Hi! Nice collection of beautiful photos. Congratulations for the 100 anniversary year in your National parks. BTW,Why do not you come to Japan.
Barb says
Such beauty in Kings Canyon! I’ve been to the Sierras many times, but I haven’t visited this park. Your visit was quite an adventure! I hope you enjoy a spectacular fall, Ruth. Our high altitude fall will soon be over. Snow will soon fall.
Mohamed says
Excellent post! Thank you so much for sharing! Really appreciate!
Desiree says
I was thinking of staying in Fresno and driving in every day. Is that something you would not recommend? I don’t mind windy roads as long as theres light out.
Ruth says
I think that is ok. It will take you about an hour to reach the Grant Grove from Fresno. Then, it will take you additional time to drive around the park. I believe it will be an extra hour to reach the bottom of the canyon. The road is in pretty good condition and not that windy (until you arrive to the park). However, I do not believe the roads within the park or from the park to CA-80 are going to be well-lighted. You may want to leave some time to drive with daylight. I stayed in Visalia when I visited Sequoia. It was an hour to entrance and another hour within the park to the area where the big trees are located. I didn’t mind because of the scenic nature of the area.
Paras Arora says
This is such an informative article. Thanks for sharing 🙂