A trip to Fresno County isn't complete until you've explored Kings Canyon National Park. Just 90 minutes from Fresno & Clovis, this is California's most underrated national park. It's home to the deepest river canyon in the United States, giant sequoia trees, and stunning waterfalls. Here is a list of easy or slightly moderate hiking trails to enjoy during your visit.
Roaring River Falls
Length: 0.3 miles (0.5-1hr) (Out & Back)
Difficulty: Easy
Roaring River Falls is a short out-and-back trail past Cedar Grove. End the hike with a view of the power 40-foot waterfall! You'll want to visit when the water is at its max flow during late spring and early summer. Remember, the currents from the fall are strong, so do not swim in the water. No pets are allowed on this trail. There is parking available in a lot off Highway 180. Pets are not allowed on the trail.
General Grant Trail
Length: 0.6 miles (0.5-1hr) (Loop)
Difficulty: Easy
See the General Grant Tree (the world's second largest tree) as you hike along the General Grant Trail. The route takes you past other iconic sites including the Fallen Monarch, Gremlin Cabin, and the Centennial Stump. You won't want to miss this trail in the winter! See the snow-covered sequoias and visit the General Grant Tree, which was named the Nation's Christmas Tree by President Calvin Coolidge in 1926! The General Grant Tree Trail has a large paved parking lot located 1 mile north of the Kings Canyon Visitor Center off Grant Tree Road. Pets are not allowed on the trail.
Zumwalt Meadow
Length: 1.5 miles (0.5-1hr) (Out & Back)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (Rocky, Flat)
Take a scenic hike through the lush Zumwalt Meadow with views of towering granite ridges and the Kings River. The out-and-back trail is short, but there are some rocky spots along the route. We recommend visiting from late-April to mid-November. The trail is closed during the winter. Parking is located in a small area by Highway 180, roughly 4.5 miles east of Cedar Grove Village. Pets are not allowed on the trail.
Buena Vista Peak
Length: 2.1 miles (1-1.5hr) (Out & Back)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (Rocky)
Who said sunset views were only good at the beach? Buena Vista Peak is a favorite trail among locals with a rewarding, 360-degree view of the High Sierra. Watch the sunset over the forest. If you're visiting during the day, you'll get a clear view of the forest and Sierra Nevada mountains. It's a great alternative for Moro Rock in Sequoia National Park. The out-and-back trail isn't very long, but there is rocky terrain along the way. Pets are not allowed on the trail. Parking is located in a small dirt lot off the Generals Highway (Highway 198) in Kings Canyon National Park, south of the Kings Canyon Overlook.
Big Baldy Ridge Trail
Length: 4.7 miles (2.5-3hr) (Out & Back)
Difficulty: Moderate (Rocky, Steep)
Find more panoramic views of the Sierra along the Big Baldy Ridge Trail. The 4.7-mile, out-and-back trail is in full sun and at higher elevation, but the view is worth the trek! We recommend hiking the trail in spring and fall for more mild temperatures. No pets are allowed on the trail. Hikers can explore the trail in winter, but you must have proper mountaineering gear to make your way through the snowy conditions. Parking is at a small, well-marked dirt parking lot directly off the Generals Highway.
Park Ridge Trail
Length: 5.2 miles (2.5-3hr) (Out & Back)
Difficulty: Moderate (Steep)
Hike along the Park Ridge Trail for panoramic views of Hume Lake and the High Sierra peaks. The trail begins at Panoramic Point Road near the Grant Grove , and the further you go, the quieter the trail gets. Be prepared for consistent uphill climb. The trail has limited shade, so be prepared in the summer months. No pets are allowed along the trail. During winter months, you’re required to snowshoes or microspikes due to icy and snow-packed conditions. Be sure to check winter road conditions, as the road to the trailhead might not be plowed. There’s parking available at the top of Panoramic Point Road, 2.3 miles up from Grant Grove Village. It does fill up early on weekends, and the road is paved to the viewpoint then dirt trail with a moderate-sized lot; also RVs are not recommended.
back to top
