AMERICA’S WIDE-OPEN WONDERS

Kings Canyon National Park

Sequoia groves & deep canyon
California
Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks · NPS/Rick Cain · Photo credits
A PLACE TO REMEMBER

Make room for the wonder.

Kings Canyon pairs giant sequoias in the Grant Grove area with the dramatic canyon country farther along the road. The grove and canyon make different kinds of outings, so choose a plan that leaves time to enjoy each stop.

A deep canyon with a forested floor and steep granite cliffs
The Glaciers carved the Kings Canyon's steep granite cliffs, leaving a wide U-shaped valley.
NPS/Rick Cain · Photography credit
A steep granite slope leads from forest to a bare alpine landscape
Just above Lodgepole Valley, the trail to the Watchtower offers views above the treeline.
NPS/Rick Cain · Photography credit
A giant sequoia's reddish bark contrasts with the snow around it
Giant sequoias in winter.
NPS · Photography credit
BUILD YOUR OWN PARK DAY

Places to consider

  • 01General Grant Tree
  • 02Grant Grove
  • 03Cedar Grove area

Choose the stops that suit your time and your party. These are ideas for exploring, rather than a fixed itinerary or a promise that every road, trail or facility will be open.

Two parks, two kinds of landscape

Sequoia and Kings Canyon share management and connect some visitor routes, but they are distinct national parks. Grant Grove offers an introduction to giant trees; the road toward Cedar Grove leads into a different canyon landscape when accessible.

Before you set out

The road into Cedar Grove is seasonal and can be affected by damage or projects. Check route restrictions before bringing a large vehicle.

Give the day room

Allow time for the approach, parking and breaks. Pick walks for the least mobile members of your party, and leave space for weather or a change of plans.

Bring your group

Confirm vehicle access, drop-off and parking with the park. Check any guided tours, transport and accessibility arrangements before fixing the rest of the itinerary.

Official park visitor guide ↗Current conditions ↗

Check the official NPS guide for current access, fees, passes, reservations and permits. Gateway names identify useful surrounding communities or access areas, not exact entrance directions. Photographs may show earlier seasons or conditions.