Take a Walk Through Paradise

If it’s not too hot outside, we suggest exploring Paradise! Take the Paradise Creek trail through Paradise Canyon in the foothills of Sequoia National Park. Gentle Paradise Canyon contrasts sharply with its surrounding terrain. This moderate 1-mile trail winds through a deciduous, oak woodlands and passes waterfalls and pools. Cross the Middle Fork Bridge and then parallel Paradise Creek for the rest of the hike. After one mile, the trail ends. Turn around unless you are prepared for off-trail hiking.

Notice: The Buckeye Flat campground is currently closed due to ongoing repairs. The trail is only accessible to pedestrians by parking at Hospital Rock and walking the closed road 0.7 miles to the trailhead. There are currently no restroom facilities available at Buckeye Flat Campground.

Beware: Poison oak is common along this trail. Learn how to identify Poison Oak, as it can irritate skin and cause rash and/or blisters. An easy phrase to remember is "Leaves of three, let it be." If you see a small plant or shrub with shiny leaves bundled in "threes", be sure to stay away. Try not to brush your clothes or shoes against this plant, as your clothes can carry the plant oils and cause irritation when you get home.

Details

Duration

1-2 Hours

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

No

Please be aware that pets are not permitted on any trails at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. However, leashed pets are allowed to be walked in developed areas like campgrounds, picnic areas, and along roads that are open to vehicle traffic. 

Qualified ADA-defined service dogs are allowed on trails in national parks. Dogs whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the ADA. For more information about ADA service animal requirements, please go to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) website.

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Foothills, Sequoia National Park

The Paradise Creek Trail starts in Buckeye Flat Campground near site #28, located 6 miles north of Foothills Visitor Center in Sequoia National Park.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

The Foothills area can get hot in the summer and air quality can be poor. If you're hiking during the summer, we recommend that you hike early in the morning or late in the day.

Time of Day

Day, Dawn, Dusk

Accessibility Information

The Buckeye Flat campground is currently closed due to ongoing repairs. The trail is only accessible to pedestrians by parking at Hospital Rock and walking the closed road 0.7 miles to the trailhead.

There are currently no restroom facilities available at Buckeye Flat Campground.

The trail is an uneven dirt path with occasional grades that exceed ADA limits for wheelchair use. There is also a suspension bridge along the trail.