Paradise Valley Trail

Overview

This is Kings Canyon’s classic river-and-granite hike: a sustained walk from Road’s End up past thundering Mist Falls into a shaded, river‑hugging valley dotted with established camps. Expect a well‑traveled path, big canyon walls, and plenty of water features. The full out‑and‑back to Upper Paradise Valley is about 18 miles total with roughly 2,457 feet of gain. Many hikers opt for the shorter day to Mist Falls instead (commonly 7.8–9.2 miles round trip, depending on turnaround point).

Route breakdown

From the Road’s End permit station, the trail starts flat and sandy with sweeping canyon views as you follow the South Fork Kings River. Near the Bubbs Creek junction, you turn left toward Paradise Valley; the grade steepens as you approach Mist Falls, where spray, slick granite, and stair‑like sections demand attention. Above the falls the trail eases, traversing forest and river benches into Paradise Valley with wider views back down‑canyon.

Camping and permits

Backpackers will find three designated camps—Lower, Middle, and Upper Paradise—spaced roughly from about 6 miles in (Lower) to about 9 miles (Upper). Middle Camp has a restroom. Overnight stays in Paradise Valley are limited to two nights, and a wilderness permit is required for any overnight trip. Note that the first allowed campsite on this approach is in Paradise Valley itself (about 6.5 miles from the trailhead), so plan your day’s mileage accordingly. Bear‑resistant food storage is required in this corridor during the main season; carry and use a canister.

Hazards and tips

Mist Falls can drench you in high water, and the polished granite around the falls gets slick—watch your footing. The opening miles are sandy and can feel brutally hot on the return; start early in summer. Treat all surface water (Giardia is possible), and be prepared for changing creek conditions higher up the canyon. Black bears are common; keep food secured at all times. Rattlesnakes are possible on warm days. Much of this route sits above 5,000 feet, so take it easy if you’re not acclimated. Pets aren’t allowed in the wilderness here.

Best time to hike

Late spring through early fall is typical, but conditions vary year to year. Early season brings higher flows and heavier spray at Mist Falls, plus potential downed trees or lingering snow patches higher up. Expect heat and sun exposure in midsummer (another reason to start at dawn). Mosquitoes are most noticeable early to mid‑summer in the valley. For a cooler, quieter experience and fewer bugs, shoulder‑season weekdays are best. Day hikers short on time get the marquee scenery by turning around at or just above Mist Falls.

Who will love it

• Day hikers seeking a big payoff without committing to the full 18 miles will be happy stopping at Mist Falls.
• Backpackers appreciate the designated Lower/Middle/Upper camps and the comfortable river corridor. This section also serves as the approach toward Woods Creek and larger itineraries like the Rae Lakes Loop.