Paradise Valley to Upper Basin Loop

This 73.1-mile route through Kings Canyon National Park is a challenging and remote backcountry adventure that combines sections of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), deep river canyons, remote meadows, and tough climbs. The route links together some of the most dramatic terrain in the Sierra Nevada, offering solitude, wild beauty, and an immersive wilderness experience.

Best suited for experienced backpackers, this route requires comfort with long distances, sustained climbs, and remote conditions. The terrain includes steep canyon walls, forested valleys, alpine passes, and glacially carved basins, making it an unforgettable but demanding loop.

Starting from Road’s End, take the Paradise Valley Trail east to connect with the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). Follow the PCT north and continue all the way to Upper Middle Fork Kings Trail. Take the Upper Middle Fork Kings Trail south through remote and rugged terrain, with fewer hikers and a true wilderness feel.

 **Trail conditions can vary on this section so make sure to check with rangers and park officials to find out current conditions before heading out.**

Continue heading south making your way to the Simpson Meadow Trail. The route then begins its long climb toward Granite Pass, a high alpine crossing with sweeping views of surrounding granite peaks and ridges. From the pass, descend into Granite Basin, a starkly beautiful landscape dotted with alpine lakes and polished rock. The trail then connects to the Copper Creek Trail, which delivers a final steep descent back to Road’s End, completing the loop.

Highlights

• Woods Creek Suspension Bridge: A memorable crossing high above the creek.

• Middle Fork Kings Canyon: Remote, rugged, and far less traveled than other sections of the park.

• Granite Pass: Expansive alpine views and a true high Sierra experience.

• Granite Basin: A striking alpine landscape with lakes and smooth granite slabs.

• Road’s End: A classic Kings Canyon trailhead that serves as the finish line for many big Sierra loops.

Flora & Fauna

Lower elevations feature oak, cedar, and ponderosa pine, while higher terrain transitions into lodgepole pine, red fir, and alpine meadows. In summer, wildflowers such as lupine, paintbrush, and monkeyflower brighten creek crossings and meadows. Wildlife includes mule deer, black bears, marmots, and pikas in higher elevations. Birdlife is abundant, from woodpeckers in the forest to Clark’s nutcrackers near alpine ridges.

Safety & Considerations

• Difficulty: Strenuous. The route is long, remote, and requires significant elevation gain. Best for experienced hikers.

• Water: Generally reliable from rivers, streams, and lakes, but must be filtered or treated.

• Weather: Snow may linger into July on Granite Pass. Summer thunderstorms are common in the afternoons.

• Remoteness: The Middle Fork Kings section is lightly traveled. Be prepared for solitude and self-sufficiency.

• Season: Best hiked July through September.

Permits & Camping

• Wilderness permits are required and can be obtained from Recreation.gov 

• Bear canisters are required for all overnight travel.

• Numerous camping opportunities are available along creeks, meadows, and basins, with classic spots at Woods Creek, Simpson Meadow, and Granite Basin.