Last updated: August 30, 2025
Thing to Do
Panoramic Point
Look outward from Panoramic Point across hundreds of miles of Kings Canyon National Park and neighboring national forest lands. Below lies Hume Lake, a small historic lake in Sequoia National Forest that was created in 1908 using a rare multiple-arch dam. The lake water fed a flume that floated timber down to the valley. Beyond, lies the deep glacial gorge of the Kings Canyon itself and a wealth of the High Sierra's peaks.
The area before you has a rich history. In the 1890s, artist Bolton Brown climbed many peaks to learn about and paint the area more accurately. Beginning In the late 1920s, poet Kenneth Rexroth often hiked here and wrote about this area. James Hutchings also spent time here, developing his Illustrated California magazine in the 1850s to bring attention and protection to the High Sierra. The likes of John Muir, Stephen Mather, George Moskey, and Horace Albright spent time here discussing how to develop a national park system.
This is also home to countless species of plants and animals, from the alpine zone, where cold-tolerant species like pika and foxtail pines live, to the foothill zone, where heat-tolerant life thrives year round. You can also see the effects of fires that have passed through, leaving the forest healthier and stronger.
You can also continue past the overlook on a more difficult 2.6-mile unpaved hike to the Park Ridge Fire Lookout. If the lookout volunteers are in, they may give you access and a tour of the view.
To access this area in winter, you will need to hike, snowshoe, or ski to the trailhead via Panoramic Point Road.
The area before you has a rich history. In the 1890s, artist Bolton Brown climbed many peaks to learn about and paint the area more accurately. Beginning In the late 1920s, poet Kenneth Rexroth often hiked here and wrote about this area. James Hutchings also spent time here, developing his Illustrated California magazine in the 1850s to bring attention and protection to the High Sierra. The likes of John Muir, Stephen Mather, George Moskey, and Horace Albright spent time here discussing how to develop a national park system.
This is also home to countless species of plants and animals, from the alpine zone, where cold-tolerant species like pika and foxtail pines live, to the foothill zone, where heat-tolerant life thrives year round. You can also see the effects of fires that have passed through, leaving the forest healthier and stronger.
You can also continue past the overlook on a more difficult 2.6-mile unpaved hike to the Park Ridge Fire Lookout. If the lookout volunteers are in, they may give you access and a tour of the view.
To access this area in winter, you will need to hike, snowshoe, or ski to the trailhead via Panoramic Point Road.
Safety
- Elevation changes will be more difficult at higher altitude. Take breaks and drink plenty of water. Allow plenty of time to complete the hike before your tour begins.
Location
- This overlook is located a short driving distance from the Kings Canyon Visitor Center on Panoramic Point Road. The road is narrow and twisting with blind curves. Use caution when driving.
Parking
- Please be aware that parking is very tight and limited. Arrive early or return at a later time if the parking lot is full.
Details
Activity
Hiking
Pets Allowed
No
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Reservations
No
Accessibility Information
The half-mile trail to the viewing area is accessible, leading visitors to a stunning view overlooking the Sierra Nevada. The trail leads up a moderately-sloped path with cross slopes that may be difficult for some individuals to navigate.
The area also has an accessible parking stall, restrooms, and picnic tables.
The area also has an accessible parking stall, restrooms, and picnic tables.
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Grant GroveLearn more about the features and hikes in the Grant Grove area.
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Kings Canyon National ParkLearn more about the features and hikes in Kings Canyon National Park.
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Places to GoLearn more about the different places to go in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.