Mist Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
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, 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 41°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
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Marble Fork Kaweah River, 16.3 miles away, not on Mist Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
3 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
7.06 ft
Water depth at gauge
41°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle. Water temperature is very cold at 41 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.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge MARBLE FORK KAWEAH R AB HORSE C NR LODGEPOLE CA (26 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
3 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
3 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
3 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
4 cfs
2/10Sat
Barely Flowing
4 cfs
2/10Sun
Low
4 cfs
4/10Mon
Barely Flowing
5 cfs
2/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to late June, peaking in June.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Independence hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Mist Falls Frozen?
Updated about 8 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
Mist Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 67°F to 46°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 3 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
The ground through the falls loses about 170 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 5,774 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 150 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 106 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing south, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 5,774 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 170 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- South
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading south).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
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
5,758 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.
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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.
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Sheep Creek Campground
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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
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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
Other waterfalls named Mist Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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