Crystal Springs Campground

Biking

While biking is only allowed on designated roads (not usually trails), there are still many opportunities to explore the area on two wheels. Here are a few of our favorite paths, which will whizz you along in the shade of giant sequoias and through the strikingly beautiful vistas through King’s Canyon.

Boating

While motorized crafts aren’t allowed, there are still many awesome ways to explore these lovely waterways. Checkout our kayaking & canoeing section (and SUPing, too!).

Fishing

There’s a reason they call it “fishing,” not catching, but while you may not catch the whopper you’ve always wanted in these waters, the scenery and time spent with the sun on your face in one of the most beautiful fishing spots in California more than makes up for the canned stew you have as backup (and, come on, that stuff is delicious.) Straight out of a Robert Redford film, flyfishers and anglers make their way along the many waterways that flow through meadows and canyon walls, hoping to catch one of the trout that live in the local waters as they perfect their cast. Some of the best spots include Lewis Creek, Bubbs Creek, Cedar Grove and Hume lake, although many require a little bit of a walk. For a slightly different experience, take the Farewell Gap Trail to Soda Springs on the edge of the Kaweah River, which has bubbling water and distinctive orange soil. Aspiring fly fishers can even take lessons from Sierra Fly Fisher, specially endorsed by the park to provide half and full-day excursions. As always, if over 16, be sure to have your fishing license. These, along with tackle, can usually be purchased at markets in Giant Forest, Lodgepole, Grant Grove and Cedar Grove (a call ahead just to be safe is always a good idea).

Hiking

On foot is a great way to see this park, which offers many rewards in the form of gorgeous vistas and hidden scenery to those who don’t mind a little exercise. You don’t have to be in it for the long haul (see the backpacking section) to take advantage of the seemingly endless paths and trails that wind through the park. There are several day trips that can take you through whatever region you feel like exploring that day, be it along the dry and dusty foothills, through lush sequoia groves and conifer forests, or past breathtaking canyon vistas.

Horseback riding

If mornings on horseback through devastatingly beautiful countryside is how you like your national parks served up, you are in luck. Kings Canyon is home to both the Grant Grove Stables and Cedar Grove Pack Station, with reservations strongly advised at each location. Guided horseback rides are also available (about $40). Many of the trails are better traveled with four legs instead of two, and they really give you a chance to cover ground you may not get a chance to see. While all of the trails offer up their own secrets and adventures, here are a few of our favorites.

Paddling

Kings Canyon also has a wealth of beautiful rivers that flow through the park, but kayakers and canoers should use extreme caution when determining if/where to put in. Spring melts make the rivers swift and cold, which can lead to hazardous conditions, and there are NO beginner rivers in the park. Many rivers also require potentially dangerous wilderness stretches, so keep that in mind before heading out. If you don’t mind a trip, the nearby Courtright Reservoir is a stirringly beautiful spot to paddle, as is Hume lake over in Sequoia National. (For the more daring, check out our section on whitewater kayaking).

Climbing

The good news? There are some absolutely incredible rock formations at this park. The even better news? A ton of them are available for you to climb. (There is no bad news.) Here are several of our favorites, which promise to offer up absolutely stunning views and a breathtaking perspective of the park. ## http://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/rockclimb.htm

Snow sports

Towering pines rise up from fresh powder, their evergreen branches crisp and startling against the stark white glare. Open meadows bordered by icy blue mountains unfold in front of you, as you push onward through the crisp air to the promise of a warm fire and cup of hot chocolate. You haven’t seen winter wonderland until you’ve seen Kings Canyon National Park in December. Pending enough snow, Snowshoeing and cross country skiing are one of the best ways to see the park during its winter transformation, and the park even provides rentals and guided tours (with free snowshoes!) It’s definitely worth braving the cold to get to see the park in its beautiful, frozen state.

Whitewater paddling

If your ideal style of kaying is a little more fast paced, check out some of the great white-water opportunities in and around the park. The Kaweah River offers many exhilarating runs, including The Middle Fork, which has class IV conditions, promising a great ride for those who are up to the challenge. As always, double check river conditions, and be certain of your level before you launch (while beautiful, these waters are also treacherous).

Wildlife watching

With hundreds of acres of landscape that range in climate, elevation and habitat, you can bet that there are lots of critters that call this park home. More than 260 native vertebrate species are in the two parks (including sister park Sequoia National). Animals you might spot during your visit include the gray fox, bobcat, striped and spotted skunks, black bear, woodrat, pocket gopher, white-footed mouse, California quail and the California newt. The lucky who explore the high country, which is rich in lakes, meadows and open forest, may be treated to a glimpse of a Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep.