Pets allowed
Not Allowed
Elevation Gain
2,209.00 ft (673.30 m)
Trail type
Shuttle
Distance
15.50 mi (24.94 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

The Simpson Meadow Trail is a 14.7-mile point-to-point trail located in Kings Canyon National Park. Located in the backcountry, this trail is rugged, remote, and accessible only by trail. The trail connects Simpson Meadow, the Middle Fork Kings River, and Copper Creek Trail. It passes through pine forests, lush meadows, wildflower meadows, and sparkling alpine lakes. It provides access to the State Lakes Loop Trail and Granite Lake. It enters the Granite Basin and climbs up and over the Monarch Divide and Granite Pass. At the MIddle Fork Kings River the Simpson Meadow Trail intersects the Tehipite Trail and the MIddle Fork Kings River Trail providing visitors with plenty of opportunities to extend their trip and explore more remote trails in the Sierra Nevada. 

Due to the remote nature of the Simpson Meadow Trail, it is best used as part of a longer backpacking trip. Permits are required for overnight stays in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks (see below for details). 

This route starts at the north end of Copper Creek Trail and heads north towards Simpson Meadow. However, you may complete the Simpson Meadow Trail in either direction.

PERMITS AND CAMPING

Wilderness permits are required for overnight camping in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks. Fees and regulations may vary depending on the time of year (quota season vs. non-quota season). For updated information about wilderness permits please visit: https://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/wilderness_permits.htm

TRANSPORTATION

The Simpson Meadow Trail can be reached via the Copper Creek Trail which is located at the Roads End Parking Area. Roads End features a large parking area, bear lockers/food storage boxes, potable water, trash facilities, and a small ranger station are available at Road's End. For more information about Roads End and the amenities offered there please visit:  https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/sequoia/recarea/?recid=79616

 

 

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Days

4

Pros

Alpine Lakes. Lush Meadows. Access Trails. Scenic Basins.

Cons

Remote and difficult to access.

Trailhead Elevation

10,347.00 ft (3,153.77 m)

Highest point

10,686.00 ft (3,257.09 m)

Features

Backcountry camping
Wildlife
Near lake or river
Big vistas
Wildflowers

Typically multi-day

Yes

Permit required

Yes

Permit self-issue on site

No

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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