Itinerary · 2 days · California
2 Days in Kings Canyon National Park: The Perfect Itinerary
Two days is enough to see the best of Kings Canyon National Park without rushing. Here is the day-by-day plan, built around the park's highlights.
Best time to go: Jul–Sep. Closest major airport: Fresno (FAT), about 1.5 hours.
Day 1: The icons
- Morning: Stand under the General Grant Tree. Start early to beat the crowds.
- Afternoon: Drive the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway.
- Evening: Walk Zumwalt Meadow.
Day 2: Go deeper
- Morning: Hike to Mist Falls.
- Afternoon: Look out from Panoramic Point.
Kings Canyon and Sequoia share one entrance fee and connect via the Generals Highway, so do them together.
When to go
The best time to visit Kings Canyon National Park is July–September.
Best time to visit Kings Canyon, month by month · What to pack
Questions
How many days do you need in Kings Canyon National Park?
Two full days covers the highlights: stand under the general grant tree and drive the kings canyon scenic byway on day one, then hike to mist falls on day two. Add a third day if you want a long backcountry hike or a slow morning.
When is the best time for this Kings Canyon itinerary?
Go in Jul–Sep, when the park is rated at its best. September offers the best balance of good conditions and smaller crowds.
Can you do Kings Canyon in one day?
You can see the highlights in one very full day by doing day one below and skipping day two, but you will miss hike to mist falls. Two days is the sweet spot.