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Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, located in the southern Sierra Nevada mountains of California, are natural treasures offering breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and rich history. These parks, often mentioned together due to their proximity and shared management, offer unique experiences for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and anyone looking to escape into the great outdoors.
This guide will discuss the best hikes in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.
Table of Contents
The History of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
Sequoia National Park
Sequoia National Park was established in 1890 is the second-oldest national park in the United States.
It was created to protect the giant sequoia trees, the world’s largest trees by volume. The park covers over 400,000 acres and is home to Mount Whitney, the highest point in the contiguous United States.
Kings Canyon National Park
Kings Canyon National Park was established in 1940 and is adjacent to Sequoia National Park. It encompasses over 460,000 acres and includes Kings Canyon, which rivals Yosemite Valley in beauty. The park also protects part of the Sierra Nevada.
Are Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park the same?
Since 1943, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks have been jointly administered by the National Park Service. This collaboration ensures consistent preservation efforts and visitor services across both parks.
Best Hikes in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
1. Marble Falls Trail
Park across the highway from Potwisha Campground for this hike. This hike will take you on a dirt road along canals. After 3.7 miles (6 km), you will reach the waterfall.
This trail does not have much shade, make sure to bring plenty of water!
2. Paradise Creek Trail
Park at the Hospital Rock Picnic Area for this hike. You will hike for 0.6 miles (0.9 km) to Buckeye Flat Campground. Take the path across from Site #28 and cross the bridge over the river. For the next 1 miles (1.6 km), follow the creek until the trail stops.
3. Cold Springs Nature Trail
Park at Cold Springs Campground. This 1-mile (1.6 km) trail is slightly sloped and goes through meadows and aspen groves.
4. Eagle Lake
Start at the west side of the Mineral King Valley at the Eagle Lake Trailhead. This steep trail is 3.6 miles (5.7 km) each way. After 2 miles (3.2 km), the trail splits. Stay left to go to Eagle Lake.
5. Mosquito Lake
On the way to Eagle Lake, once the trail splits, take a right instead of a left. After another 1.6 miles (2.5 km), you will reach Mosquito Lake.
6. Congress Trail
This is one of the best hikes in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. It starts at the famous General Sherman tree, the largest tree in the world!
From the General Sherman tree, continue for 2 miles (3.2km) along a loop through the center of the Giant Forest sequoia grove. This trail is pretty level.
7. Tokopah Falls
Park at the Lodgepole Campground parking lot. This trail is 1.7 miles (2.7 km) one way, and ends at a viewpoint near the Tokopah Falls waterfall.
Be careful around the water! The currents are strong.
8. Little Baldy
You will need to get to the Little Baldy Trailhead early because there is limited parking!
This trail is 3.4 miles (5.5 km) and has 700 ft (200 m) of elevation gain. The views are worth it, and were some of my favorite views of the whole park!
9. Zumwalt Meadows
Park at the Zumwalt Meadows Trailhead. This trail is 1 mile (1.6 km) along a rocky slope that overlooks the meadow.
Remember to stay on the trail! Stepping on the plants can damage them and this is a very fragile environment!
10. Mist Falls
This 9 mile (14.4 km) roundtrip hike will take you to the largest waterfall in Kings Canyon National Park.
The Mist Falls Trailhead is located near the trailhead for Zumwalt Meadows.
11. Big Baldy Ridge
Park at Big Baldy Ridge Trailhead for this moderately-difficult hike.
This hike is 4.4 miles (7 km) roundtrip with a 600 ft (183 m) elevation gain. You’ll get to enjoy some of the best views in the park!
Tips for Hiking in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
- Take plenty of water. I always use a Camelbak when I hike.
- Download an offline map of the area. I recommend Google Maps and MAPS.ME.
- Wear hiking shoes with a good grip. Some of the trails get slippery, especially near the waterfalls.
- Do not feed or touch wild animals. There are bears, rattlesnakes, mountain lions, and bobcats in these parks.
Mountain Lion and Bobcat Safety
Bobcats are rarely seen in these parks. Mountain lions are much larger and have long tails. These wild cats usually run away when you see them. Here is what to do if the mountain lion doesn’t run:
- Do not run, as this may cause them to chase you.
- Pick up any children or small dogs.
- Look as large as possible. Hold your arms out over your head. Lift up the sleeves of your jacket.
- Slowly back away while facing the mountain lion.
- If the mountain lion begins to act aggressively, shout at it, wave your arms, and throw rocks or sticks at it.
