Kings Canyon/Sunset

MrMeowNow

Kings Canyon National Park is a true hidden gem of the Sierra Nevada, offering dramatic landscapes, deep valleys, and towering mountains that feel almost untouched by time. The park’s centerpiece, Kings Canyon itself, is a breathtaking gorge—one of the deepest in North America—flanked by cliffs that soar thousands of feet above the valley floor. Standing in the canyon, you get a real sense of scale and the raw power of nature. The park is perfect for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Trails like Mist Falls, Rae Lakes Loop, and Zumwalt Meadow showcase a mix of rugged terrain, lush forests, sparkling rivers, and serene meadows. The towering sequoias in the Cedar Grove area are equally impressive, offering a quieter, less crowded experience than neighboring Sequoia National Park while still showcasing these ancient giants. Wildlife is abundant, from deer and black bears to a variety of birds, making every hike feel alive and dynamic. The scenery changes with the seasons—spring brings wildflowers and rushing waterfalls, summer offers hiking and camping opportunities, and fall adds a splash of color to the forests. Kings Canyon feels vast, peaceful, and largely untouched, offering a sense of solitude that’s increasingly rare in popular parks. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the grandeur of the Sierra Nevada, whether you’re hiking, photographing, or simply soaking in the majestic landscapes.

Sneha Patil

Visiting Kings Canyon National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The towering canyon walls, massive boulders scattered along the roadside, and the serene stillness of nature create an atmosphere that’s both humbling and awe-inspiring. As you wind through the mountains, every turn reveals breathtaking views—rugged cliffs, lush forests, and dramatic drops that showcase the raw beauty of the canyon landscape. It’s a place that leaves you amazed at every moment.

Marta Stashevska

We paired it with Sequoia, Kings Canyon offers deep glacial valleys, massive sequoias, and roaring rivers. Drive the scenic byway into Kings Canyon for cliff-lined views and waterfalls. Hike Zumwalt Meadow (1.5 mi)- it’s the most popular hike to see the beautiful park- the road that takes you there is amazing as well. Less crowded than Yosemite, but just as beautiful. Fall colours were here already early October.

Phạm Mi

We had the most beautiful drive through Kings Canyon — it absolutely blew my mind! 🌲 Definitely one of California’s most underrated national parks. If you plan to drive all the way to the end of the route, give yourself at least 4 hours — there are so many gorgeous stops along the way. Slow down, soak in the nature, and don’t miss the glowing red sunsets. ❤️

lesley Galloway

Breathtaking start to finish. We loved the ease of driving through the park and seeing everything it had to offer. Visitor centres were closed due to the government shut down but we were still able to find our way to the spots we wanted to see most. I would highly recommend visiting and it’s so easy to get to kings canyon in one day. Dress in layers as it’s such a mixed climate up there. Good walking shoes advised. Pack a picnic and bring plenty water there are so may nice spots to stop. Wear had binoculars to spot wild life and check out cool rock features.