South Fork (Paradise)

Dogs No Dogs

Features River/Creek · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers

Permit required for any overnight backcountry trips.

The trails start at the Road's End ranger station heading east further up Kings Canyon. The first 2 miles are fairly flat and easy on a wide trail in an open valley with pine trees and occasional wildflowers. The South Fork Kings River is close by to the right but not accessible until you reach the Bailey Bridge at 2 miles. The trail turns north here staying on the western side of the river and ascending steadily over the next 4 miles. At first, you are still covered by trees, but soon enough as you get to higher elevations and more rocky surfaces, the trail opens up providing you with stunning views south towards Palmer Mountain. You'll get one of the best views at roughly 3.6 miles where the trail is somewhat exposed heading over a larger and steeper rock slope. The next highlight is just ahead at 4.2 miles: Mist Falls. This 100 foot waterfall can be viewed both from the bottom through the trees as well as from the top. Be careful however as the top of the waterfall is made of slippery slickrock.

The next mile is probably the steepest on the entire trail. Turn around occasionally for a break and a rewarding view down the valley. At roughly 6 miles - as you reach Paradise Valley - the trail becomes much flatter again. There are a few marked camp sites right as you enter the valley. The way through Paradise Valley is pleasantly green with meadows and wildflowers and access to the river in a number of places. As you leave Paradise Valley at about 8.5 miles, the trail get steeper again. You reach the confluence of Woods Creek and the South Fork Kings River at 10 miles. There are plenty of camp sites not too far from the river.

The bridge across the South Fork Kings River washed out during the winter of 2016/17. Construction of a replacement bridge is not scheduled before 2020.