Kings Canyon
National Park
Tucked in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains, adjacent to Sequoia National Park, is the breathtaking Kings Canyon National Park.
The park takes its name from Kings Canyon itself, a dramatic, glacier-carved gorge shaped by the rushing Kings River. While Hells Canyon along the Oregon-Idaho border is often cited as the deepest canyon in North America, Kings Canyon actually plunges to a depth of 8,200 feet, technically making it even deeper.
Unlike many western U.S. national parks that cater to day hikers and casual visitors, Kings Canyon is largely a backcountry destination, with over 90% of its land designated as wilderness. That said, there are still plenty of exciting and accessible activities to enjoy in the frontcountry for those not venturing deep into the wild.
Kings Canyon At a Glance
$35 per vehicle for 7 days, which also includes Sequoia National Park. Or FREE with the America the Beautiful pass. The 7 day pass covers both Sequoia and Kings Canyon!
Kings Canyon National Park is located just east of Fresno, California on the western slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The closest airport will be the Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT), about 1-1.5 hours away, or for a larger airport, San Francisco International Airport- SFO (4.5 hours) or Los Angeles International Airport- LAX (4.5 hours) would be the best options.
May is an excellent time to explore many of the frontcountry hikes in the park, offering pleasant weather and fewer crowds than the peak summer months. For those aiming to venture into the backcountry, however, July through September are the ideal months to visit.
Reservations are not required to enter the park, but you will need a permit for backcountry hiking.
15 Fun Things to Do in Kings Canyon National Park
Looking for the best things to do in Kings Canyon National Park? We’re sharing our favorite hikes and quick stops, plus tips to help you plan your own trip!
Top 12 Best Hikes in Kings Canyon National Park
If you’re looking for hikes with massive canyon views, roaring waterfalls, and peaceful forest trails, these hikes in Kings Canyon National Park need to be on your radar!
While it’s often overshadowed by its neighbor, Sequoia, Kings Canyon delivers just as much beauty, if not more, with dramatic cliffs, winding rivers, and quiet meadows. From easy strolls to longer backcountry adventures, the trails here offer something for every kind of explorer.
Plan the Ultimate California National Parks Road Trip! (3 itineraries)
Want to go on the ultimate California National Parks road trip? We’re sharing 3 itineraries to help you plan your adventure!
California is easily one of our favorite states! It’s home to just about every type of scenery you can imagine, from the coast, to epic mountains, desert terrain, dense forests, and geothermal activity. And one of the best ways to experience its mix of ecosystems is by visiting the California National Parks!
Videos
We have made it to our 50th and 51st National Parks: Sequoia and Kings Canyon! And although they are two separate parks, they are right next to each other and managed together, making them perfect to explore in one trip. So we spent two days trying to see as much as we could!
