When one gazes across the expansive Kings Canyon in California, it’s easy to imagine that the granite peaks stretching into the sky were carved by the hands of giants. The granite mountain peaks form expansive canyon networks throughout the twin parks of Sequoia and Kings Canyon. Peaks of 12,000 feet contrast pointedly against the lower elevations of the canyon floors and offer a variety of topography, from windswept and rocky high country to forested cliffs and fern-laden gullies.
According to the National Park Service, most of the mountains and canyons in the Sierra Nevada were primarily formed during ancient glacial periods that wrapped the mountains with thick ice, carving out rivers, valleys, and unique peaks. The park service said several small glaciers are still present in the parks. Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks are surrounded by the Sequoia, Inyo, and Sierra national forests.
Visitors will wind in and out of these areas as they drive through the two parks, passing through forest areas like Stony Creek, Stump Meadow, and Indian Basin. The two national parks are directly adjacent to each other and can be accessed with a single entrance fee. But for visitors seeking to experience the geologic wonder that is Kings Canyon, the best place to start is by taking the Generals Highway (180) east from the Central Valley near Fresno.
From there, the highway winds into the canyon, leaving the giant sequoias behind as the road twists tightly downward, offering a breath.