This blog post may contain affiliate links, which are at no cost to you. It just helps support me so I can continue to put out free content for you like this! Thank you for your support!
Tucked just east of Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon often gets overshadowed—but this lesser-known gem is absolutely worth a visit, especially if you’re already in the area. With its dramatic canyon views, easy-access waterfalls, and Yosemite-like granite cliffs, Kings Canyon offers a wild, peaceful contrast to the more crowded parks nearby. Keep reading to learn about all these things to do in Kings Canyon National Park!
On our spring road trip, we spent the morning exploring Sequoia National Park and then drove into Kings Canyon around 2:00pm, giving ourselves five hours to hit all the major highlights. Our strategy? Drive straight to the end of the road and work our way back—ensuring we didn’t get stuck navigating the narrow canyon drive in the dark.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best things to do in Kings Canyon National Park, especially if it’s your first time and you’ve only got a few hours. Whether you’re doing a Sequoia + Kings combo day like we did or planning a full weekend, this list covers all the can’t-miss stops, short hikes, and scenic viewpoints that make Kings Canyon such a hidden gem.
ARTICLE HIGHLIGHTS
QUICK TIPS FOR VISITING KINGS CANYON
Before diving into the best things to do, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your visit—especially if it’s your first time.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall is ideal. We went in May and had great weather with clear roads and light crowds.
- Cell Service: It’s limited to nonexistent inside the canyon, so download offline maps ahead of time.
- Driving Strategy: Start by driving all the way to Road’s End, then make your stops on the way back. This avoids driving the twisty canyon road in the dark.
- What to Bring: Pack water, snacks, and layers (it can be cooler in shaded areas). Hiking shoes or sneakers with good grip are helpful for the short walks.
- Parking: Most viewpoints and trailheads have small lots—arrive early if you’re visiting on a weekend or holiday.
- Park Entry: Kings Canyon and Sequoia are managed as one park, so a single entrance fee or America the Beautiful Pass covers both.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK
1. MUIR ROCK
At the very end of the scenic drive is a peaceful stop along the Kings River: Muir Rock. Named after famed naturalist John Muir, this massive boulder juts into the river and is a popular spot for people to relax or take a refreshing dip in the cold mountain water.
To get there, drive until you see the “Road’s End” sign and park in the nearby lot. The walk to Muir Rock is just 5–10 minutes from the parking area, although the trail isn’t well-labeled. Since cell service is unreliable, I highly recommend downloading an offline trail map in advance. Even so, if you’ve parked in the right place, it’s fairly intuitive.
It’s a quiet, scenic place to stretch your legs and enjoy the sounds of the river before heading back along the canyon road.
2. ZUMWALT MEADOWS
Just a few minutes down the road from Muir Rock, Zumwalt Meadows is a must-stop for an easy, scenic hike that gives off serious Yosemite vibes. We did the shorter 0.8-mile round-trip version of the trail, which winds through the forest and opens up to a peaceful meadow framed by towering granite cliffs.
Keep an eye out for deer—there were several grazing when we visited—and be sure to pause at the rock wall viewpoint at the end. It’s a great place for photos and a quiet moment in nature.
The boardwalk area could use some TLC (the bushes were pretty overgrown), but the trail itself is flat and very beginner-friendly.
3. ROARING RIVER FALLS
This quick 0.3-mile walk leads to a powerful waterfall that crashes through a narrow granite chute—definitely worth the short stop. The trail is paved and easy, making it accessible for all visitors, including families with strollers or those who want a quick leg stretch.
While Roaring River Falls isn’t the biggest waterfall you’ll see in the Sierra, the setting is beautiful, and the roaring sound of the water gives it an epic feel. The river views along the trail are just as scenic as the falls themselves.
4. GRIZZLY FALLS
Just steps from the road, Grizzly Falls is one of the easiest and most impressive stops in Kings Canyon. You’ll hear the thundering water before you even park. This wide, powerful waterfall cascades dramatically down a sheer rock wall and is especially full in the spring and early summer.
There are a few picnic tables near the base, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a late lunch or snack with a view. While you could stop here for just five minutes, it’s worth lingering a bit longer to take it all in.
No hiking required—this is a perfect stop for those wanting big views without much effort.
5. SCENIC BYWAY VIEWPOINT
This pull-off along the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway offers sweeping views of the canyon’s towering granite walls and winding river far below. It’s one of those “wow” moments where you truly appreciate just how deep and dramatic Kings Canyon is—especially if you’re visiting for the first time.
There’s no hike required, just a short walk from your car to the viewpoint. It’s a great photo op and an easy stop as you work your way back through the park.
6. JUNCTION VIEWPOINT
As you climb out of the canyon, Junction Viewpoint delivers one of the most expansive overlooks in the park. From here, you’ll get a panoramic view of the confluence where the South and Middle Forks of the Kings River meet—hence the name.
It’s a quick pull-off with dramatic vistas and fewer crowds than some of the other stops, making it a perfect place to snap some photos or just enjoy the quiet. If you’re driving the Scenic Byway in reverse like we did, this makes for a great “final” viewpoint before leaving the inner canyon.
7. PANORAMIC POINT OVERLOOK
Tucked away above Grant Grove Village, Panoramic Point requires a short detour—but if you have the time, it’s a peaceful spot with a big payoff. After a narrow, 10–15 minute drive up a winding road, you’ll reach the small parking lot. From there, it’s a 0.5-mile round-trip hike to the overlook.
The trail is paved and mostly easy, though there is a bit of uphill. At the top, you’ll get a sweeping view of the Sierra Nevada, including distant peaks and forested valleys.
That said, if you’re tight on time and have already done Moro Rock in Sequoia, this might be the one stop to skip. Moro Rock in Sequoia offers more dramatic scenery in my opinion, but Panoramic Point is still a nice option if you’re looking to escape the crowds.
8. GENERAL GRANT TREE
Known as the “Nation’s Christmas Tree,” the General Grant Tree is one of the largest and most significant trees in the world—and a must-see stop in Kings Canyon. Standing at over 260 feet tall and more than 1,600 years old, it also holds the title of the widest known sequoia, with a massive 107-foot circumference at the base.
The short 0.3-mile paved loop trail makes this stop accessible for nearly everyone. Along the trail, you’ll walk through the charred side of General Grant, which has visible burn scars from past fires—a powerful reminder of how these ancient giants survive through centuries of natural challenges.
One of the highlights of this walk is stepping inside a fallen sequoia. The hollowed-out trunk has a natural tunnel that you can walk through, giving you a hands-on perspective of just how massive these trees truly are.
Whether you’re ending your day here or starting it, General Grant is one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring sights in the park.
WHAT WE SKIPPED (BUT YOU MIGHT WANT TO ADD)
If you have more than half a day to explore Kings Canyon—or if you’re planning to stay overnight—there are a few extra stops worth considering:
- Boyden Cavern – Located along the scenic byway, this marble cavern offers 45-minute guided tours with stalactites, stalagmites, and cool interior temps (perfect for a hot day). It’s a fun option if you’re into geology or traveling with kids.
- Hume Lake – A scenic alpine lake just outside the main canyon. It’s a great spot for kayaking, swimming, or a relaxed picnic. There’s also a popular 2.6-mile loop trail around the lake that’s mostly flat and easy.
- Mist Falls Trail – If you’re up for a longer hike, this trail starts near Road’s End and leads to one of the largest waterfalls in the park. It’s about 8 miles round-trip and moderately strenuous, but the views are worth it if you have the time and energy.
- Rae Lakes Loop (Backpacking) – Not doable on a one-day visit, but worth mentioning for anyone planning a longer adventure. This multi-day loop is one of the most scenic backpacking routes in California.
We didn’t have time for these on our quick visit, but they’re top contenders if you’re looking to extend your Kings Canyon adventure.
WHERE TO STAY NEAR KINGS CANYON
Whether you’re spending the night before or after your Kings Canyon visit, here are great accommodations to consider—ranging from rustic to refined, inside the park and nearby.
INSIDE THE PARK
Located in Grant Grove Village, this lodge offers cozy stone-and-timber rooms with fireplaces and a historic ambiance. It’s just steps from the visitor center and trails to the General Grant Tree—perfect for a tranquil, all-in-one experience.
These timber and tent-style cabins offer a rustic stay right in the sequoia forest. A great choice for easy trail access and a classic national park vibe.
NEARBY TOWN OPTIONS
We stayed in Visalia, and for good reason—it’s just 45 minutes from the Kings Canyon entrance and offers more hotel variety and better pricing than nearby towns.
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS VISALIA – SEQUOIA GATEWAY
Reliable with free breakfast, pool, and close to local amenities.
Boutique hotel downtown with rooftop views and stylish decor.
If you do stay in Visalia, be sure to get an ice cream flight at Scoops!
OUTSIDE-THE-PARK EXPERIENCES
AUTOCAMP SEQUOIA – THREE RIVERS
A luxe glamping option with Airstreams, a modern clubhouse, and firepits. A memorable stay about an hour from Kings Canyon—perfect for design-forward travelers.
Rustic lodge with all-inclusive meals, lake views, and outdoor activities. Great for families or groups wanting to stay close to the action.
CAN YOU DO KINGS CANYON IN ONE DAY?
Yes — and we did! If you’re tight on time, you can absolutely see the highlights of Kings Canyon in a single afternoon. We entered the park around 2:00pm after spending the morning in Sequoia and wrapped up by 7:00pm. Five hours gave us plenty of time to hit the key viewpoints, short hikes, and waterfalls without feeling rushed.
Here are a few tips to make it doable:
- Drive to Road’s End First – Start at the far end of the park and make your way back. This ensures you’re not driving through the twisty canyon road after dark.
- Stick to the Highlights – Focus on easy-access stops like Muir Rock, Grizzly Falls, and the General Grant Tree. These give you a great mix of scenery, sequoias, and waterfalls without long hikes.
- Time Your Visit – The canyon can get warm in the afternoon sun, but it also means fewer crowds. Spring and fall offer the best combo of mild weather and active waterfalls.
- Download Maps – There’s almost no cell service in the canyon, so make sure to download Google Maps or AllTrails offline before entering the park.
If you’re combining Kings Canyon with Sequoia (which share a park entrance), this makes for an epic and efficient day trip full of natural beauty. For more details, check out my Sequoia itinerary that pairs perfectly with this one.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
CAN YOU DRIVE THROUGH KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK?
Yes, Kings Canyon is accessible by car via the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway. It’s a beautiful, winding mountain road that leads from Grant Grove down into the canyon. Most of the top stops—including waterfalls, meadows, and viewpoints—are located right off this drive.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO SEE KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK?
You can see the highlights in 4–6 hours if you’re short on time. A full day allows for more hiking and exploration, while overnight visitors can dive deeper into areas like Rae Lakes or Boyden Cavern.
IS KINGS CANYON OR SEQUOIA BETTER?
Each park has its strengths! Sequoia is known for its giant trees like General Sherman and Moro Rock, while Kings Canyon offers deep gorges, waterfalls, and dramatic alpine scenery. We recommend visiting both if you can.
WHAT IS THE MOST FAMOUS SPOT IN KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK?
The General Grant Tree is the park’s most famous landmark. It’s the widest sequoia known and has been declared the “Nation’s Christmas Tree.”
FINAL THOUGHTS
If you’re visiting Sequoia National Park, don’t skip Kings Canyon. While it might not have the same name recognition, it offers some of the most dramatic scenery in the Sierra—and far fewer crowds. From roaring waterfalls to peaceful meadows and jaw-dropping viewpoints, it’s a place that surprises and impresses at every turn.
Even with just half a day, you can see the highlights and walk away feeling like you’ve experienced something special. If you’re building a longer adventure route, don’t miss my Yellowstone & Grand Teton itinerary for more epic national park inspiration.
Planning your visit? Be sure to check out my Sequoia National Park itinerary to make the most of your trip!
This blog post may contain affiliate links, which are at no cost to you. It just helps support me so I can continue to put out free content for you like this! Thank you for your support!