Roads End to Simpson Meadow is a 45.5 -mile out-and-back trek located within Kings Canyon National Park. The route takes you to Simpson Meadow and the Middle Fork Kings River by way of Copper Creek Trail and Simpson Meadow Trail. There are stunning views, alpine lakes, and segments of quiet solitude along this strenuous route. It is a perfect multi-day backpacking route and is also suitable for running and hiking.
The route begins at the Copper Creek Trail, which can be accessed from the Road's End Parking Area. A large parking area, bear lockers/food storage boxes, potable water, trash facilities, and a small ranger station are available at Road's End.
Copper Creek Trail is a well-maintained sandy path that climbs over 5,000 feet within its first seven miles. During the first four miles of switchbacks, chaparral and short scrubby trees line the trail but offer no shade from the hot sun. The water sources are limited, so bring enough to get you up a slow and tiring climb.
Copper Creek Trail and the climb end at a ridge called The Lip, which overlooks Granite Basin. A well-deserved descent along the Simpson Meadow Trail leads to alpine lakes, wildflowers, and grassy meadows within Granite Basin, which is surrounded by sheer granite cliffs.
It is relatively straightforward to climb Granite Pass, which offers sweeping views of LeConte Canyon. On the descent from the pass, you pass through several meadows filled with flowing streams, as well as peaceful forests full of wildflowers, oaks, and pines. The meadows are also frequented by deer.
During the final five miles to Simpson Meadow, the trail is unmaintained and steep, descending 4,000 feet in just five miles! At times the trail may disappear under thick patches of manzanita and scrub. Long pants may be helpful in this section which requires some minor bushwhacking against coarse, sharp plants.
Take some time to enjoy the river before turning around and heading back the way you came.
SAMPLE BACKPACKING ITINERARY
Day 1: Roads End to Lower Tent Meadow (First campsite along the Copper Creek Trail) - 4 miles
Day 2: Lower Tent Meadow to Granite Basin/Granite Lake Junction - 6 miles
Day 3: Granite Basin to Simpson Meadow - 13 miles
Day 4: Simpson Meadow to Granite Basin - 13 miles
Day 5: Granite Basin to Roads End - 10 miles
TRAILS USED
Copper Creek Trail → Simpson Meadow Trail
PERMITS AND CAMPING
Wilderness permits are required for overnight camping in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks. Fees and regulations may vary depending on the time of year (quota season vs. non-quota season). For updated information about wilderness permits please visit: https://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/wilderness_permits.htm.
ROADS END INFORMATION: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/sequoia/recarea/?recid=79616.
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