north grove loop trail

There are 2 wonderful fall hikes in King's Canyon, this is one of them, the other one is Redwood Canyon, not too far from this hike. The North Grove Loop is lightly traveled. We met only a couple of other hiking teams. Most people walk the Grant Grove trail of giant sequoias. They have no idea this little gem of a trail is near by, starting out in the same parking lot. You more likely than not will have it to yourself. This 1 1/2 mile trail provides for close-up looks at the big trees and mixed conifers. The trail head is at the Grant Tree parking area, 1 mile northwest of the visitor center. Some elevation gain and loss, perhaps 300-400 feet. The hike is so worth the effort! Look at the photos and judge for yourself. This is a "must return to" trail!We took this hike in October. The many bushes and small trees, and ferns, but most notably dogwoods, in this grove turned colors of red, yellow, pink, and brown. They provide a great contrast to the reddish brown bark of giant sequoias, and the darker bark of other conifers. Entrance fee to King's Canyon-Sequoia National Park covers this trail. Grant Grove Area hikes:http://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/ggdayhikesum.htm

This is so close to one of the main attractions at Kings Canyon and yet I rarely see anyone on the trail. Seems most people come, do the easy walk around the General Grant, and then leave. Little do they know that 100 yards away is the trail head for the North Grove Loop. This is about a two mile loop through some of the majestic Sequoias in their natural surroundings. The trail appears to be an old fire road. While walking the path, you will notice a steady descent and when coming back that descent becomes a steady ascent. Not that the path is difficult, but there were plenty of places to stop and catch my breath and enjoy the scenery. There are some incredible sequoias on this trail.