Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
8.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
800 ft
About Mist Falls
Mist Falls is one of the largest and most impressive waterfalls in Kings Canyon National Park, located in California. It is known for its powerful flow, especially during the spring and early summer when snowmelt is at its peak. The waterfall is a popular destination for hikers and offers stunning views of the surrounding granite cliffs and lush forest.
The Setting
Mist Falls sits at 5,758 feet within Kings Canyon National Park, fed by the Marble Fork Kaweah R, in the high mountains of California.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 8.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 800 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Mist Falls is a well-maintained path that follows the South Fork of the Kings River. The first part of the trail is relatively flat and shaded, passing through meadows and forested areas. As you approach the falls, the trail becomes steeper and rockier, offering increasingly dramatic views of the river and surrounding granite cliffs.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a moderately challenging hike with rewarding views of Mist Falls and the surrounding natural beauty. The waterfall is most impressive in spring and early summer when the water flow is strongest. Wildlife sightings, such as deer and birds, are common along the trail.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Mist Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $35.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Mist Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Mist Falls is in late spring or early summer when the waterfall is at its peak flow. Fall is also a great time to visit for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow. Check the National Park Service website for current conditions.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 45°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Be cautious near the waterfall, as the rocks can be slippery and the currents are strong. Carry plenty of water and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Watch for wildlife and follow park guidelines to ensure safety.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 16 miles away
88 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 11 years of record
8.98 ft
Water depth at gauge
45°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is very cold at 45 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Mist Falls is located in Kings Canyon National Park. The trailhead begins at the Roads End parking area, which is accessible via Highway 180. The drive to the trailhead offers scenic views of the canyon.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Roads End parking area. During peak seasons, the lot may fill up quickly, so arriving early is recommended.
Elevation
5758 feet above sea level
Coordinates
36.813549° N, -118.548710° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start your hike early to avoid crowds and ensure you have enough time to complete the trail. Bring plenty of water, as the trail can be hot and exposed in some sections. Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the rocky sections near the falls can be slippery.
This trail sits at 5,758 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 23% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Coppertone Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen
UV intensity jumps ~4% per 1,000 ft — at this elevation you can burn in half the time.
Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm (3-Pack)
Lips have almost no natural UV protection and burn fast in thin, dry mountain air.
Liquid I.V. Electrolyte Packets
You lose moisture ~2x faster at elevation — electrolytes help you absorb water efficiently.
ROCKNIGHT Polarized UV400 Sunglasses
High-altitude glare off rock and water is intense — UV400 lenses block 99%+ of UVA/UVB.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 8.0 miles and 800 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
America the Beautiful Annual Pass
Covers entrance fees at 2,000+ federal recreation sites — required at most National Parks.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Sequoia Resort
Cozy Cottage
Seven Circles Lodge&Retreat
Genas's Sierra Inn & Restaurant
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
Sheep Creek Campground
6.5 miles away · 111 sites
Overview Sheep Creek Campground in Cedar Grove is nestled in the stunning Kings Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the United States. With the sound of the Kings River, and glowing mountainsides just beyond the trees, Sheep Creek Campground is a wonderful place for families to spend time in the great outdoors. Recreation Cedar Grove provides a plethora of hiking trails, from the hiking newcomer to the avid backpacker, and everyone in between. Day hikers can hike to Mist Falls, Cedar Grove Over
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Independence, California
Kern Hot Spring
Kern Hot Spring emerges at 109°F in Sequoia National Park at 6,908 feet elevation, accessible only via backcountry hiking. Prot...
Keough Hot Springs
Keough Hot Springs emerges at 124°F in the Owens Valley near Bishop, situated just seven miles south along US Highway 395. The ...
Palm Spring
Palm Spring, locally known as Wizard Pool, flows at 120 degrees Fahrenheit deep within Death Valley National Park, creating a 4...
Lower Warm Springs
Lower Warm Springs discharges at 110°F in Death Valley National Park, accessible only via a challenging 5.9-mile backcountry ro...
Unnamed Spring Inyo County 1
This 84-degree thermal spring near Big Pine sits at 4,034 feet in remote Inyo County backcountry, requiring a 1.7-kilometer hik...
Blaney Meadows Hot Springs
Blaney Meadows Hot Springs emerges at 109 degrees Fahrenheit from the Sierra National Forest at 7,676 feet elevation, deliverin...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Independence, California on SoakingSprings.
Explore California springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Zumwalt Meadow, Roaring River Falls, and the scenic drive along Kings Canyon Scenic Byway.
Wildlife
Wildlife in the area includes deer, black bears, squirrels, and a variety of bird species. Be cautious and store food properly to avoid attracting bears.
Cities near Mist Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Writing about Mist Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.