Pets allowed
Not Allowed
Elevation Gain
60.00 ft (18.29 m)
Trail type
Loop
Distance
1.50 mi (2.41 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Circling one of the most beautiful meadows in the Sierra frontcountry, the Zumwalt Meadow Loop packs in quite a bit of scenery for a short family-friendly trail. Nestled between North Dome and the Grand Sentinel, two of Kings Canyon’s most impressive granite formations, verdant Zumwalt Meadow is a picturesque and open oasis on a canyon floor that is mostly covered by incense cedar and pine forest.

From the parking area/Highway 180, head west for Zumwalt Meadow, crossing the wooden suspension bridge. Once across the Kings River, head left/east to link up with the loop trail. Choose either the clockwise or counter-clockwise direction. The trail on the meadow’s northern edge follows level terrain and boardwalks to minimize impact on the sensitive meadow ecosystem. There is also a pleasant overlook with benches. The portion of the loop on the south side of the meadow becomes slightly more rugged, but only for a short climb. The trail gains roughly 60 feet of elevation as it passes granite boulders, offering sweeping vistas of the meadow below North Dome.

Zumwalt Meadow is located approximately 1 mile west of Road’s End. The meadow can be linked with the River Trail and taken as a one way between Road’s End and Roaring River Falls for a longer outing.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

National Park Pass

Pros

Scenic meadow. Canyon views. Family-friendly loop.

Cons

Seasonal access.

Trailhead Elevation

5,025.00 ft (1,531.62 m)

Features

Big vistas
Geologically significant

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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