Kings Canyon National Park | Fresno

Kings Canyon National Park is a stunning area located in the Sierra Nevada of California, famous for its deep canyons, towering granite cliffs, ancient giant sequoias, and diverse wildlife. It was established in 1940 and is part of the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks complex. This vast park offers breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and abundant recreational opportunities, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Geography and Natural Features

Kings Canyon: One of the park’s most iconic features, Kings Canyon is carved by the Kings River. The canyon is incredibly steep, with vertical walls that rise as high as 8,000 feet above the river. The Kings River descends more than 13,000 feet from the Sierra Nevada crest to the valley floor, making it the longest undammed drop of any North American river. The canyon’s rugged beauty is a hallmark of the park, with its dramatic terrain providing awe-inspiring views.

Sierra Crest: The eastern boundary of the park is defined by the Sierra Crest, which includes some of the highest peaks in California, such as North Palisade. North Palisade stands at 14,248 feet, making it the highest point in the park. The rugged terrain here offers opportunities for mountaineering and offers sweeping views of the surrounding wilderness.

Tehipite Valley: Often compared to Yosemite Valley due to its sheer granite cliffs and waterfalls, Tehipite Valley is one of the most remote areas of the park. It’s harder to reach than other park attractions, which means it is less visited, giving it a more isolated and untouched feel. The valley is surrounded by towering granite cliffs, including the impressive Tehipite Dome, and offers some of the park's most dramatic scenery.

Flora and Fauna

Kings Canyon National Park is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species. With over 1,200 plant species, it represents around 20% of California's total plant diversity.

Plant Life: At lower elevations, the park features chaparral, oaks, and sycamores. As you ascend in elevation, the landscape transitions into mixed-conifer forests, dominated by ponderosa pine, incense cedar, white fir, and sugar pine. One of the park's most famous features is the presence of giant sequoias, particularly in areas like Grant Grove and Cedar Grove.

Wildlife: The park also supports a variety of animal life. Common species include mule deer, black bears, mountain lions, bobcats, and a variety of birds, including peregrine falcons and California condors. The park's diverse ecosystems, from lush forests to rugged alpine areas, support many wildlife species that thrive in these varied habitats.

Notable Attractions

General Grant Tree: Located in Grant Grove, this tree is the second-largest living sequoia in the world. It’s believed to be around 1,650 years old and stands 267 feet tall. The General Grant Tree was designated the "Nation’s Christmas Tree" in 1926 by President Calvin Coolidge. The surrounding area has several other notable giant sequoias and provides a picturesque setting for hiking.

Boyden Cavern: Situated just outside the park in the Giant Sequoia National Monument, Boyden Cavern is a marble cave featuring spectacular stalactites and stalagmites, as well as rare "shield" formations. The cavern is open for guided tours, which allow visitors to explore its intricate passageways.

Mist Falls: A popular hiking destination, Mist Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in Kings Canyon National Park. The 8-mile round-trip hike to the falls is considered moderate, but the reward at the end is a spectacular view of the falls, which cascade over the rocky cliffs into a deep canyon below. The mist from the falls often creates rainbows, adding to the beauty of the site.

Tehipite Valley: For those who seek solitude and adventure, Tehipite Valley offers a rugged wilderness experience. It’s known for its breathtaking granite cliffs and waterfalls, and is less frequently visited due to its remote location. It is an ideal location for experienced hikers and those looking for a more challenging and isolated experience.

Recreation and Activities

Hiking: Kings Canyon offers a wide variety of trails for all skill levels, from easy, short walks to challenging backcountry hikes. Some popular hikes include:

General Grant Tree Trail: A short, easy loop that takes visitors past the General Grant Tree.

Mist Falls Trail: A moderate 8-mile hike that takes you to Mist Falls.

Rae Lakes Loop: A renowned 41-mile backpacking loop that is one of the most scenic treks in the Sierra Nevada. This trail is for experienced hikers and offers spectacular views of lakes, peaks, and alpine meadows.

Backpacking: The park is a designated wilderness area, and many of its most scenic regions can only be accessed by backpacking. Popular backcountry areas include the Rae Lakes Loop, the Woods Creek Trail, and the circuit around the Kings Canyon. Permits are required for overnight stays and are subject to a quota system during peak seasons.

Horseback Riding: The park offers guided horseback rides, providing visitors with a unique way to experience the backcountry. There are stables located in Grant Grove and Cedar Grove that offer a variety of trail options for riders of all levels.

Rafting and Kayaking: The Kings River offers whitewater opportunities for kayakers and rafters. Sections of the river are suitable for different skill levels, and it is especially popular in the spring and summer when snowmelt increases water levels, creating thrilling rapids.

Camping and Accommodations

Kings Canyon National Park offers a variety of camping options, from developed campgrounds to backcountry sites.

Grant Grove Campground: This is the largest and most popular campground in the park. It offers easy access to the General Grant Tree and other popular sites in the park. The campground is open seasonally and provides amenities such as restrooms, picnic tables, and fire pits.

Cedar Grove Campground: Located in the heart of Kings Canyon, this campground is closer to the river and offers access to hiking trails, such as those leading to Mist Falls. It’s a peaceful setting surrounded by towering cliffs and sequoias.

Backcountry Camping: For those seeking a more remote experience, there are numerous backcountry campsites scattered throughout the park. A wilderness permit is required for backcountry camping.

Visitor Information

Hours: Kings Canyon National Park is open year-round, though certain roads and facilities may be closed during the winter months due to snow. The most popular time to visit is during the spring and summer, when hiking and camping opportunities are abundant.

Entrance Fees: Entrance fees are charged for vehicles entering the park. Annual passes and special discounts for seniors and military personnel are available.

Kings Canyon National Park is a remarkable destination offering diverse landscapes, rich biodiversity, and an abundance of outdoor activities, making it a must-visit for nature lovers, hikers, and adventurers.