Year-a-round the foothill trails are accessible. The fall season brings cooler temperatures for hiking in this diverse environment. In winter and spring, the foothills are clothed in a glorious array of wildflowers. Late March through late May are especially colorful. As summer approaches the temperature rise, and so do the rivers. Avoid the dangerous rivers during this time!

THE TRAILS:

Marble Falls
This trail climbs 3.90 miles (6km) through chaparral to a lovely cascade. Park near site #14 at Potwisha Campground. Follow the dirt road across the concrete ditch. The trail starts alone the steep bank to the right.

Middle Fork Trail 
 Leading through chaparral to highcountry, the first miles offer views of Moro Rock and Castle Rocks. Take the Buckeye Flat Campground road and turn left on the dirt road before the campground. Go 1.3 miles (2 km) to a parking area. Panther Creek Falls is 3 miles (5 km) beyond that. Park at Hospital Rock if Buckeye Flat is closed.

Lady Bug
Hike along the South Fork of the Kaweah in the upper foothills (moderately steep). From the campground, cross the river via footbridge. The trail ends 3 miles (5 km) up at one of the lowest-elevation sequoia groves.

Garfield Grove
This trail also begins at South Fork Campground. A relatively steep 5 mile (8.3 km) one-way climb to Garfield sequoia grove. Start on the south side of the river in the campground.

North Fork Trail
This trail can be difficult to access. Please check at a visitor center for details. 

Be Safe! Poison oak is abundant at these elevations. In the spring and summer, this twiggy shrub has shiny green leaves in groups of three. Its berries are white. Touching even the woody stems may cause a reaction. If you have any contact with poison oak, wash your skin and clothes as soon as possible.

Ticks may hitch a ride as you wander through the foothills. Tick bites are painless, but a small percentage of ticks carry Lyme disease. If you have been hiking in brushy or grassy areas, check yourself thoroughly when you return from your hike. If you find a tick, remove it with tweezers and/or seek a doctor's advice.

Rattlesnakes are common in the foothills. Most snake bites occur as a result of teasing or trying to handle snakes. Very few people die from rattlesnake bites, but their poison can cause severe tissue damage. If bitten, avoid panic; call a ranger or 911.

Topographic maps of the foothill trails are available at the Foothills Visitor Center book store.

Please note that pets are not permitted on any of the trails in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. In campgrounds and picnic areas, pets must be kept on a leash at all times.