Kings Canyon Loop

The Kings Canyon Loop is a 72.3-mile route through Kings Canyon National Park. The route combines several different trails to create a long, multi-day adventure through the heart of the Sierra Nevada. It features steep mountain passes, alpine lakes, lush meadows, waterfalls, wildflowers, rushing rivers, and more.  This is a challenging backpacking trip featuring short sections through remote areas that traverse along rugged and unmaintained trails. A trip along this loop would be ideal for an experienced backpacker looking to get away from the crowds in the national park and have a beautiful and challenging adventure. 

This route is designed as a loop to minimize logistical concerns regarding resupply and transportation. You can leave your car at Roads End, take the food you need for the journey, and enjoy an epic walk through a magnificent mountain range along a route that will lead right back to your car (Please note that Roads End is usually closed from May to mid November).  

The route described in this post is completed in a clockwise direction, but either way would be fine. 

TRAILS USED

Copper Creek Trail → Simpson Meadow Trail → Upper Middle Fork Trail → Pacific Crest Trail → Woods Creek Trail

SAMPLE 6 DAY BACKPACKING ITINERARY

Day 1: Roads End → Granite Basin: 10 miles

Day 2: Granite Basin → Simpson Meadow: 13 miles

Day 3: Simpson Meadow → Palisade Creek/Pacific Crest Trail: 9 miles

Day 4: Pacific Crest Trail → Upper Basin: 11 miles

Day 5: Upper Basin → Woods Creek: 16 miles

Day 6: Woods Creek → Roads End: 13.3 miles

RIVER CROSSINGS AND TRAIL CONDITIONS: https://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/trailcond.htm. 

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.  

To make a permit reservation please visit www.recreation.gov. 

PARKING AND TRANSPORTATION

Because this route is a loop, you are able to explore in all directions without worrying about arranging a shuttle. Overnight parking is available at Roads End between May - November. For more information please visit: https://www.nps.gov/places/000/roads-end-trailhead.htm.