Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park
Best Backpacking Itineraries
Located roughly 4 hours from both San Francisco and Los Angeles, Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks are excellent locations for wilderness backpacking. These adjoining parks may not be as popular as Yosemite, Joshua Tree, and Death Valley National Parks, but the scenery they provide is spectacular and leaves nothing to be desired.
Below we describe backpacking itineraries for each park. Note that these itineraries are strenuous, and much of the hiking takes place at high altitude. Please hike within your skill level and prepare appropriately. You will need to secure wilderness permits in order to camp overnight in these parks. Only a certain number of permits are given out for each day, so it is best to apply for permits well in advance of your trip. More information about the permit application process can be found on the NPS website.
Sequoia National Park Itinerary
Sequoia National Park may be known for its giant sequoia groves, but the best backpacking is actually in the lesser-known Mineral King Valley. This section of the park provides an excellent mix of solitude and beauty. For a 40-mile loop, set off from the parking lot just past the Mineral King Ranger Station (GPS coordinates: 36.4529, -118.5966). Along with this route, you will encounter many pristine alpine lakes and will be treated to views of unforgettable granite peaks. For more pictures and maps of this route, check out this trip report from Backpackers Review.
Route map (orange) for the Mineral King Loop in Sequoia National Park.
Day 1: 6.5 miles, Sawtooth Trailhead to Columbine Lake
You will start your trek off with a climb up to Columbine Lake. Although it is only 6.5 miles, this hike is tough because the trail over Sawtooth Pass is unmaintained and steep. However, the view from the top of the pass is epic, and the scenery around Columbine Lake looks out of this world.
Day 2: 6.2 miles, Columbine Lake to Big Five Lakes
On the 2nd day, you travel through the Lost Canyon and up to Big Five Lakes. The scenery in the Lost Canyon is great and there are several nice campsites at Big Five Lakes.
Day 3: 8.6 miles, Big Five Lakes to Precipice Lake
Continue hiking North until the trail meets up with the well-known High Sierra Trail, and then follow that trail up through Big Arroyo. You will be treated to expansive views of the mountain peaks on either side of the valley. Then follow the trail as it climbs up over the Kaweah Gap and to the shore of Precipice Lake.
Day 4: 9.4 miles, Precipice Lake to Eagle Scout Creek
Follow the High Sierra Trail down into the Hamilton Lakes Basin. The views along this section of the trail are spectacular and Hamilton Lake makes for a perfect lunch spot. Then, continue along the trail until you reach Bearpaw Meadows. From there, head south towards Eagle Scout Creek where you will camp on your final night.
Day 5: 9.5 miles, Eagle Scout Creek back to the parking lot
On the last day, you will hike through forests and will encounter a Redwood Meadow filled with impressive Redwood trees. The trail then climbs up over Timber Gap before descending down to the parking lot where you parked your car.
Kings Canyon National Park Itinerary
Kings Canyon National Park is home to one of the most popular backpacking loops in California, the Rae Lakes Loop. This hike covers 40 miles and starts off from the Roads End Ranger Station (GPS coordinates: 36.7946, -118.5828). Along the loop, you will pass through forests, meadows, and high altitude alpine terrain. You will also encounter waterfalls and trout-filled streams and crystal clear lakes. For pictures and detailed maps of this route, check out this trip report from Backpackers Review.
Route map (orange) for the Rae Lakes Loop in Kings Canyon National Park.
Day 1: 10.5 miles, Roads End Trailhead to Junction Meadow
The hike begins with a dusty and flat 2-mile section before you reach the actual Rae Lakes Loop. The trail then climbs steadily through a valley until you reach the beautiful and serene Junction Meadow area.
Day 2: 8.6 miles, Junction Meadow to Rae Lakes
On the 2nd day, you are treated to the best views along the loop. As you follow the trail up towards Glen Pass, you will pass several pristine alpine lakes. You then hike up to the top of Glen Pass and can take in the amazing views of the Rae Lakes area. The trail then meanders down to the Rae Lakes where you will spend the night.
Day 3: 12.7 miles, Rae Lakes to Woods Creek
On day 3 you will follow the trail out of the Rae Lakes region and towards the Paradise Valley. Along the way, the trail meanders through a valley surrounded on either side by impressive granite peaks. This section of the trail is exposed and can be warm, but the views are worth it.
Day 4: 9.6 miles, Woods Creek to Roads End Trailhead
On the last day you will hike through the forested Paradise Valley. The trail follows a river and you will see several waterfalls along the way. The impressive Mist Falls makes for a great lunch spot. After lunch continue hiking towards the Roads End Ranger Station and then celebrate the end of your trek by taking a dip in the river that runs behind the parking lot!
About the Author
Backpackers Review offers comprehensive trip reviews and adventure gear guides to get you on your way. Check out their stunning pictures on Instagram.
