Day Hiking

 

Whether you choose a short, paved trail or an all-day hike, exploring by foot is a great way to experience these parks!

Before you hit the trail, know some facts before you go:

• Permits are not required for day hikes, except if hiking Mt. Whitney.
• We recommend that you review The Ten Essentials Checklist and prepare for your trip based on its guidance, regardless of the length of your hike.
• Review the parks' General Safety webpage, as well as the in-depth Trail Safety webpage.
• Check at a visitor center or on the web for trail conditions updates.
• Are you part of a group hike or meet-up? There is a maximum party size limit of 25 people for day hikes in these parks.

Trail Maps

We recommend taking a map, especially for longer or unpaved trails. Even short trails can lead to unmarked intersections or unexpected detours, and it is your responsibility to be prepared. With hundreds of miles of trails in these parks, it's difficult to provide detailed trail maps online. Buy trail maps at each park visitor center or through the Sequoia Parks Conservancy's online store. You can also visit our digital map, the Sequoia & Kings Canyon Park Atlas, to create and print custom maps.

 

Marble Falls cascade

Paul Sheehan

Foothills Day Hikes
Hot, dry summer shapes these lower elevations. The rivers are critical to life here. Watch out for poison oak and rattlesnakes as you travel. Consider hiking in early morning or evening hours to escape the heat of the day.

 

On top of Moro Rock

Richard Thiel

Giant Forest & Lodgepole Day Hikes
Giant sequoias, cool conifer forests, sun-splashed meadows, and exhilarating vistas characterize the Giant Forest and Lodgepole area. Climb the historic staircase on Moro Rock to see the towering Great Western Divide.

 

Grant Tree Trail

NPS Photo

Grant Grove Day Hikes
Sequoias, easy trails, and solitude are all available on trails in the vicinity of bustling Grant Grove Village. Maps are posted at visitor centers and on kiosks in developed areas.

 

Zumwalt Meadow

NPS Photo

Cedar Grove Day Hikes
Looming granite walls, great vistas, quiet rivers, roaring waterfalls—some of the most level hikes in the parks can be found here as well as some of the most steep, hot, and strenuous. The road to Cedar Grove is open from spring through late fall.

 

Mineral King Valley

Richard Thiel

Mineral King Day Hikes
Cooler temperatures and dramatic mountain scenery tempt day hikers here. Be prepared for steep trails and thinner air. West- and south-facing slopes can still be hot and dry, so bring plenty of water and sunscreen. Consider beginning your hike in in the morning when it is cooler. The road to Mineral King is open from late spring to late fall.