11 Best Things To Do in Kings Canyon National Park - The Wandering Queen (2024)

There’s no shortage of activities to add to a list of things to do in Kings Canyon National Park. This park is filled to the brim with exciting adventures and natural attractions.

Whether you want to snap a shot of the park’s iconic centerpiece, the General Grant Tree, or discover rock formations and other hidden gems, there’s something for every traveler.

Taking a trip to Kings Canyon and the neighboring Sequoia National Park is one of the best activities in Visalia, California, for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers alike. However, we all know that creating an itinerary can sometimes be overwhelming.

To help you plan the perfect trip, this guide details the best activities, must-see attractions, where to stay, and more tips on visiting Kings Canyon National Park.

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Map Of Best Things To Do In Kings Canyon National Park

Where To Stay Near Kings Canyon National Park

With so many things to do in Kings Canyon National Park, you’ll want a cozy place to stay during your trip. While there are some campgrounds and lodges in the park, you might want more comfortable accommodation. Here are a few top picks for a splendid stay near Kings Canyon National Park.

Budget: The Sequoia Hut

The Sequoia Hut is an excellent option for solo travelers or couples who want cozy, budget-friendly accommodation. Here, you can relax in the air conditioned space or take in the crisp, fresh air on the patio. There’s also a small garden, grill facilities, and an equipped kitchen.

It’s just a short drive from the national park. And you can take advantage of the free Wi-Fi to post about your experience when you return to the vacation home. >>>Check Availability

Mid-Range: Mt Williamson Motel and Basecamp

This quaint accommodation in Independence offers a comfortable stay with beautiful mountain views. The rooms feature air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms. Some rooms have separate seating areas too.

While the décor is simple and minimal, the friendly staff goes the extra mile to make you feel at home. This cute-as-a-button accommodation is great for solo travelers, couples, and small families. And there are a few pet-friendly rooms if you’re traveling with your furry companion. >>>Check Availability

Luxury: Comfort Inn & Suites Sequoia Kings Canyon – Three Rivers

If you want a more luxurious stay, this cozy hotel is an excellent pick. The rooms feature stylish décor and several comforts for a pleasant stay. There is free Wi-Fi throughout the premises, and the hotel offers a yummy complimentary breakfast.

After indulging in some waffles and fresh fruit, you can take a refreshing dip in the seasonal swimming pool. Or relax with a good book in the seasonal hot tub.

Other amenities include a fitness center, laundry facilities, and a gift shop. There is also a national park shuttle that is available to guests from May to August. >>>Check Availability

What To Pack For Things To Do In Sequoia

• Sunscreen:California gets HOT, and there is so much sun. Definitely bring some sunscreen. >Buy Sunscreen
• Hiking Boots/Shoes:>Check Out The Hiking Shoes Shown In The Pictures Here
• Hiking socks: Having the correct socks helps prevent getting blisters. Smart Wool is probably my favorite brand out there. >Buy Hiking Socks
• Water Reservoir:Water reservoirs help prevent me from getting dehydrated while hiking. The great thing about this reservoir is that it doesn’t have a plastic taste.>Here Is My Water Reservoir
• Water: Stay nice and hydrated. It gets pretty hot here.
• Sunglasses:It gets pretty sunny, so make sure to pack some sunglasses.>Check Out These Sunglasses
• Snacks:The best snacks are jerky, nuts, and energy bars. Clif Bars are great for hiking.
• Camera: The Sony A6000 was one of the first cameras I started traveling with.The Sony A6000 is an excellent camera for people that want to start improving at travel photography.>Buy Sony Camera Here
• First Aid Kit: This is one of the first things I bought when I started going on adventures. It is super portable.>Buy This Awesome First Aid Kit Here
• Day Pack to carry all your things:The REI bag I have linked, we have had for seven years now, and it is still going strong! >Buy This Great Quality Backpack
• Headlamp: A headlamp is an absolute must in case you get stranded in the dark while hiking! It is a lot more portable and easier to use than a flashlight. >Buy A Headlamp Now
• Leggings or shorts: Shorts are good for hot days, but I loved the leggings I wore in Visalia! >Click For The Cute Leggings On My Photos
• Breathable sweat-wicking shirts: Cotton shirts soak up your sweat when hiking, so make sure to wear something breathable and don’t wear cotton. >Check out this awesome breathable shirt here.
• Sports Bra:For women. >Buy The One In The Pictures Here
• Jacket: You should bring a jacket if you go during the Winter, Spring, or Fall seasons. >Buy My Favorite Jacket
• Tripod: This is an optional item, but it is excellent for getting the ideal sunset pictures. >Check out this tripod
• Knife: I always carry a knife in my backpack just in case. >Check Out My Knife Here
• National Park Pass:I highly recommend getting a year-long America The Beautiful Pass so you can get into both parks with ease.>Get It Here
• Map And Trail Guide: Start planning your trip with this. >Buy One Here

11 Unmissable Things To Do at Kings Canyon National Park

From tackling a rewarding hiking trail to relaxing beside a cascading waterfall, there are many exciting activities to add to your itinerary. Here are some of the best things to do and places to visit in Kings Canyon National Park.

Explore the Grant Grove Area

Start your adventure at Grant Grove in the western section of Kings Canyon Park. You’ll find Kings Canyon Visitor Center in Grant Grove Village. Here, you can learn about the park, giant sequoia groves, and the High Sierra. Pick up educational material, admire the exhibits, or grab a map before exploring.

The picturesque meadows, towering trees, massive sequoia stumps, and wildlife provide a haven for nature lovers and hikers. If you’re planning to hike in Grant Grove, here are a few trails to consider:

• General Grant Tree Trail – 0.7-mile loop trail
• North Grove Loop – 1.5-mile loop trail
• Big Stump Basin – 2-mile loop trail
• Big Baldy Ridge – 4.4 miles round trip hike
• Buena Vista Peak – 2-mile round trip hike

Admire the General Grant Tree & the Fallen Monarch

While there is plenty to see in the sequoia forest of Grant Grove, the General Grant Tree is the star of the show. It’s known as “The Nation’s Christmas Tree” and is the largest sequoia tree in Grant Grove. This sequoia stands 268 feet tall and is around 1,650 years old.

You’ll also come across a natural work of art, the Fallen Monarch, in Grant Grove. This giant sequoia tree fell roughly 300 years ago. It has survived many seasons and is one of the most fascinating things to see in Kings Canyon National Park.

Enjoy Horseback Riding at Grant Grove Stables

If you’re an animal lover looking for things to do in Sequoia National Park or Kings Canyon, a guided horseback ride is a fun way to explore the area — and the horses are adorable!

Grant Grove Stables is a family-owned business that offers 1- and 2-hour guided trips. You’ll find it situated near the General Grant Tree in Kings Canyon.

Enjoy a scenic journey through the forest with family and friends. On the one-hour guided trail, you’ll make your way through Grant Grove, see the General Grant Tree, and pass by a grove of giant sequoias.

If you want to enjoy views of a second grove of sequoias and a scenic overlook of Sequoia Lake, opt for the two-hour guided trail ride.

Whether you choose to ride a cute horse for one or two hours, the views will take your breath away. The one-hour trail ride costs around $60 per person, while the two-hour trip costs about $100 per person.

The guided horseback rides generally run from June to mid-October, weather permitting. If you’re traveling with little ones, it’s important to note that the minimum age requirement is eight years, and kids must be able to fit in the saddle.

Read More: 8 Fun Things To Do In Visalia, California

Visit the Cedar Grove Area

Nestled at the bottom of Kings Canyon, Cedar Grove is home to various natural wonders. You’ll find it situated 35 miles east of Grant Grove.

If you’re wondering what to do in Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon with fewer crowds, this is one of the least crowded areas to explore.

Here, you’ll see an abundance of trees, towering cliffs, rock formations, waterfalls, the free-flowing Kings River, and Kings Canyon. The terrain is similar to Yosemite Valley, and it’s the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature.

Whether you’re planning to hike, picnic, or take advantage of the incredible photography opportunities at the scenic viewpoints, you’ll want to spend at least a few hours in Cedar Grove. For those ready to put on their hiking shoes, here are a few trails in the Cedar Grove area to consider:

• Zumwalt Meadow – 1.5-mile out-and-back trail
• Sheep Creek Cascade – 2-mile round trip
• Roaring River Falls – 3.9-mile round trip
• Cedar Grove Overlook – 5-mile round trip
• Don Cecil Trail – 4.4 miles one-way (8.8-mile roundtrip)
• Mist Falls – 8-mile round trip
• Lookout Peak – 13-mile round trip

If you forget to pack snacks or leave a few supplies behind, head to Cedar Grove Village. There’s a snack bar if you want to grab a yummy treat. Alternatively, make your way to Cedar Grove Market. When browsing the market, you’ll come across many quirky gifts that you might want to pick up for a loved one or to remember your fun trip to the park.

Discover Rock Formations at Boyden Cavern

Exploring Boyden Cavern is one of the best things to do in Kings Canyon National Park. It’s situated in the Sequoia National Forest, but you’ll have to pass through Kings Canyon to get to the cave.

Boyden Cavern is located below the 2,000-foot marble walls of the Kings Gate. Take a guided 45-60 minute walking tour through this stunning chamber full of rock formations. You’ll see magnificent hanging stalactites and stalagmites, gorgeous flowstones, pendants, and shield formations.

Tip: It’s best to wear supportive hiking boots and a light jacket as the temperature inside the cave is around 55°F year-round.

You can purchase tickets in person or online. As walk-up tickets aren’t guaranteed for your preferred time slot, making an online booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot.

After touring the cave, you can enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch or pop inside the gift shop to grab a drink and some snacks before your next adventurous activity.

Wander Around Zumwalt Meadow

This list of things to do would definitely be incomplete without including Zumwalt Meadow. It is one of the most beautiful and scenic parts of the Kings Canyon valley floor. The lush green woods surrounding the meadow and the sounds from the flowing river create a peaceful environment for a relaxing experience.

Zumwalt Meadow is situated in the Cedar Grove area along Highway 180. If you’re up for a little nature walk, a 1.5-mile hiking trail circles the meadow. As the trail is easy with minimal elevation, it’s pretty popular.

Some parts of the hike are on flat ground, and the last bit is on a boardwalk with scenic views of the meadow. You’ll also have spectacular views from the river, so be sure to bring your camera gear along.

Read More: Things To Do in Sequoia National Park | 16 Must-See Attractions

Relax at Hume Lake

Nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, a trip to Hume Lake offers plenty of fun outdoor experiences. You’ll find this recreational area within Sequoia National Forest.

It features coves and sandy beaches, perfect for a refreshing swim. There are also many hiking and biking trails around the lake. If you’re an eager angler, don’t leave your fishing gear behind. The lake is home to rainbow trout, bluegill, green sunfish, and other fish species.

For fellow hikers, the 2.6-mile Hume Lake Trails is an easy route that takes around 60-90 minutes to complete. Other fun activities include kayaking, canoeing, non-motorized boating, mountain biking, and camping. Hume Lake Campground is a short walk from the lake if you want to grab a few groceries or rent a boat.

Note: Motorized boats aren’t permitted on the lake.

See Also

Basic Information - Little River Canyon National Preserve (U.S. National Park Service)

Visit Junction View

When touring California’s national parks, you’ll want to allocate time to stop by the many viewpoints for awe-inspiring vistas. One of the best vantage points in Kings Canyon National Park is Junction View.

It is located along Highway 180, 10 miles from Kings Canyon Visitor Center. At arrival, take a moment to appreciate the stillness and admire the beautiful surroundings. There’s also a wayside exhibit that displays images and information about the geology of the canyon in view.

Take in the Beauty of Mist Falls

There’s just something special about watching a waterfall rush down rocky cliffs into a glistening body of water. These cascading beauties offer the perfect spot to relax and forget about everyday life.

With a 100-foot drop, Mist Falls is one of the largest falls in Kings Canyon National Park. The trail leading to this stunning cascade is challenging but definitely doable.

The Mist Falls Trail is a moderate hike that takes around 4-5 hours to complete. This 8-mile round trip is an excellent option if you’re in the mood for a day hike with a rewarding endpoint. The route features varied terrain and incredible views. You might also spot wildlife roaming around.

If you’re planning to tackle the Mist Falls Trail, be sure to pack enough water and snacks as well as other hiking essentials.

Read More: Best Hikes in Pinnacles National Park: 10 Thrilling Hiking Trails

Have a Picnic at Grizzly Falls

Grizzly Falls is an 80-foot waterfall located in Sequoia National Forest. It features a scenic picnic area, hiking opportunities, and beautiful views. You’ll find it just 4.6 miles from the Cedar Grove Visitor Center.

The Grizzly Falls Trail is an easy 0.1-mile trek that starts at the car park off Kings Canyon Scenic Byway. You’ll make your way to a picnic area, which is the perfect time to fuel up with a delicious meal and admire the beautiful surroundings.

The picnic spot is a delightful place to spend time with friends and family. It features picnic tables in a shaded area, and there are toilet facilities available too.

As you continue on the path, you’ll soon see the majestic waterfall flowing down the canyon wall. You can visit Grizzly Falls year-round. However, the best time to see this cascade is during spring and early summer, as the water flow increases from the snowmelt and winter rain.

Marvel at the Roaring River Falls

The Roaring River Falls is a 40-foot waterfall that plummets over granite monoliths into a glistening emerald pool. The dramatic drop and scenic surroundings make it one of the most beautiful Kings Canyon National Park attractions.

To access the waterfall, take a 0.3-mile easy walk from the Cedar Grove Area. As this paved, tree-covered path is quite popular, you’ll likely meet many fellow explorers along the way. This short hike is an excellent option for those traveling with kids too.

While the rock pool might appear calm, it’s important to note that the rocks are slippery, and the water is rough and fast-moving. So it’s best to be cautious if you’re planning to take a dip in the water.

Tip: If you’re hoping to see more impressive cascades, visit the nearby Yosemite National Park. It is home to the renowned Yosemite Falls, and there are plenty of breathtaking Yosemite photography spots.

Best Time To Visit Kings Canyon National Park

The best time to visit Kings Canyon National Park is in the fall and spring. During this time, you’ll experience fewer crowds and pleasant weather. If you’re visiting in spring, you’ll see the waterfalls in their glory and wildflowers blooming in the park.

Summer is the most popular time to visit, so you can expect large crowds. However, it isn’t as crowded as Yosemite National Park.

If you want to avoid the masses, you can visit in winter. Although some of the Kings Canyon attractions and hiking trails will be closed, you’ll still get to enjoy other winter activities and capture shots of the dreamy views.

How Much Time is Needed for Kings Canyon Must-See Attractions

Spending two days to a week in Kings Canyon National Park is recommended. If you’re planning to visit the neighboring Sequoia National Park, you’ll want to allocate at least one day to explore each of them.

While the time spent in the park will depend on your planned activities, there is certainly enough to keep you entertained for several days.

How To Get to Kings Canyon National Park

If you’re arriving by plane, the nearest commercial airports to Kings Canyon National Park are Fresno Yosemite International Airport and Visalia Municipal Airport. There are also other international airports that are within a few hours’ drive of the park.

If you’re planning to drive to the park, you have to prepare for the narrow and winding mountain roads. Gasoline isn’t sold within the park, so be sure to fill up your gas tank beforehand. You’ll find gas stations at nearby national forests; gasoline is available at Hume Lake Market and Stony Creek Village.

For those visiting Sequoia and Kings Canyon National park in the summer, you can take the Sequoia Shuttle that runs between the Giant Forest area and Visalia.

What To Do in Kings Canyon National Park | FAQs

In Kings Canyon National Park, things to do are plentiful, but you might have a few questions to finalize your itinerary. Here are some answers to commonly asked questions to help you plan the perfect trip.

What’s So Special About Kings Canyon National Park?

Kings Canyon National Park supports the largest remaining grove of sequoia trees in the world, the Redwood Mountain Grove. You’ll find it in Kings Canyon National Park and Giant Sequoia National Monument on the western slope of California’s Sierra Nevada.

Is Kings Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?

Yes, Kings Canyon National Park is certainly worth visiting. With breathtaking sequoia groves, scenic hiking trails, cascading waterfalls, and incredible photo opportunities, there is plenty to see and do in the park.

How Much Does it Cost To Go in Kings Canyon National Park?

An individual entry pass costs around $20 per person traveling on foot or by bicycle. If you’re traveling in a single vehicle, you’ll have to pay $35 for the vehicle pass, which includes all passengers. For those exploring on a motorcycle or other motorized vehicles, the motorcycle pass costs $30.

These passes are valid for 1-7 days. Additionally, there are passes available for non-commercial and commercial groups. You can also buy America The Beautiful Pass, which includes all National Parks and National Forests.

Reservations are not required to enter Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks. However, purchasing your pass in advance will save you time at the entrance station.

Is One Day Enough for Kings Canyon National Park?

While you can spend several days exploring, one day in Kings Canyon National Park is enough time to see the top attractions.

If you’re short on time, a few of the best things to do include visiting the Grant Grove Tree, wandering around Zumwalt Meadows, riding a horse at Grant Grove Stables, and hiking around Hume Lake. Be sure to arrive early to make the most of your time and take in all the beautiful views.

What is the Difference Between Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park?

One of the main differences between these parks is that Sequoia National Park has more sequoia groves in a concentrated area. It is also home to the famous General Sherman Tree. On the other hand, Kings Canyon National Park has magnificent canyons, waterfalls, valleys, and peaks to explore.

What Kind of Wildlife Lives in Kings Canyon National Park?

Kings Canyon National Park is home to various animals, including the gray fox, bobcat, white-footed mouse, California quail, and the western whiptail lizard. You might also encounter black bears throughout the park.

Wrapping Up What To See in Kings Canyon National Park

When it comes to fun things to do, Kings Canyon has plenty to offer. From tackling scenic hiking trails to admiring rock formations, it is a haven for nature lovers.

And with Sequoia National Park right next door, you certainly won’t run out of thrilling activities during your trip. So, get ready for a well-deserved vacation jam-packed with exhilarating experiences.

If you’re looking for more adventures in California, check out this 2-day Yosemite itinerary.

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