Kings Canyon is a prime location for active travelers looking to hike into the backcountry and experience the solitude and beauty of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Visitors can expect sharp ridgeline hikes, high sierra meadows and wildflowers, alpine lakes and forested river basins. Before setting out, determine how many miles you can expect to cover with the time you have and choose a trail according to these goals.
Rae Lakes Loop
Call ahead for reservations for hiking the Rae Lakes Loop if you are planning on doing the hike in the summer. It is one of the most popular hikes in Kings Canyon and can meet its quota quickly. The Rae Lakes Loop begins at Road's End in the park and traverses 46 miles of ridges, forested gorges, lakes and alpine meadows. Hikers on this route are required to carry their food in bear canisters, which can be rented from the visitor center.
Sierra High Route
The Sierra High Route is a 195-mile hike beginning at the Cedar/Mother Nature trailheads near the Kings Canyon National Park visitor center. It winds through the park's rugged wilderness before making its way through Inyo and Yosemite National Park. The Sierra High Route is not for inexperienced backpackers, much of the path is along old trails and often requires route-finding abilities. Much of the route parallels the John Muir Trail but remains at higher elevations above the timberline. You will cross jagged ridgelines, hop boulders, hike over passes and cross streams. Like any other hike, Leave No Trace wilderness ethics should be followed. You can also section hike the route to remain within Kings Canyon or to cut down on mileage and time on the trail.
Sierra Palisades
Try out the 34-mile Sierra Palisades loop trail by beginning with a challenging hike over Bishop Pass and into Dusy Basin. This route commonly requires four days or more to complete with several steep mountain passes to cross, many of which hover between 11,000 and 12,000 feet of elevation. You can make this a longer backpacking trip by taking side routes to Columbine Peak and Mount Jepson.
Pacific Crest Trail/John Muir Trail (PCT/JMT)
Access to the PCT/JMT is possible from several trails off of the Rae Lakes Loop route. The portion of the PCT that lies within Kings Canyon National Park is reportedly one of the most scenic and dramatic sections of the entire trail. From the Rae Lakes Loop route, take either the Bubbs Lake trail or the Wood's Creek Trail to access the PCT.
Base Camping
Depending on the area you are looking to explore, you may also want to consider hiking into the backcountry and setting up a base camp, from which you can thoroughly explore the surrounding environment. One possible option for this would be hiking over Bishop Pass and setting up camp in Dusy Basin where there are several surrounding ridges and summits. Check with the ranger station or visitor center to find out how many nights it is possible to stay within one specific area.
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