Kings Canyon Scenic Byway is a picturesque 50-mile route in California

Kings Canyon Scenic Byway is a scenic road located in Fresno County, in the U.S. state of California. Be ready for the route's many curves, and allow plenty of time to stop for photo ops.

Kings Canyon Scenic Byway

How many miles is the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway?

The road (California 180) is totally paved. It’s 50 miles (80.5 km) long. The road begins in the foothills outside of Fresno and runs east to Cedar Grove, in Kings Canyon National Park. It’s the only vehicle route into Kings Canyon.

What road is Kings Canyon Scenic Byway?

Located within the Sequoia National Forest, it’s a snaking two-lane difficult road, with uncountable turns, twists and significant drop offs. The road features some steep sections. Trailers longer than 24 feet (7 m) are not recommended. The drive allows you to explore one of the deepest canyons in North America.

Is Kings Canyon Scenic Byway open?

Set high in the central portion of California, the road tops out at 2.086m (6,843ft) above sea level. The section below the turn off to Hume Lake is seasonally closed in winters (mid-October through mid-May).

How long does it take to drive through Kings Canyon National Park?

Plan 2-3 hours to complete the grandly scenic drive. However, due its beauty, plan on a full day. The road features numerous scenic pullouts and hiking trails, so allow plenty of time to stop for photos.

Is Kings Canyon Scenic Byway worth it?

The scenery is spectacular: awe-inspiring geological formations, the rushing Kings River, groves of giant sequoia trees. The drive is internationally significant for its unique scenic and geologic displays and is a showcase of nature's wonderland. Along the way you will see breathtaking vistas, soaring granite cliffs and enjoy amazing panoramas. You will experience dramatic changes in vegetation, wildlife, and geology as you climb the 4,000 feet through the eastern foothills of the Sierra Nevada. Along the drive you can enjoy the nature's wonderland on the Kings Canyon: marvel at the enormous sequoias towering above you, explore the natural caves and other geology along popular hiking trails and take advantage of the fabulous opportunities the canyon and Kings River provide outdoor lovers. In the midst of the fabulous landscapes of sequoia groves and river ways, the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway is mere seconds from some of the best outdoor recreation in the state.

 

 

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