A short, easy walk leads to one of the most accessible waterfalls near Kings Canyon National Park, where misty spray and granite walls set the scene.
20 Minutes - 1 Hour
Summer
Free with Park Entry
Overview
Tucked just off the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway, the Grizzly Falls Picnic Area is one of those rare roadside gems that gives you a front-row seat to the grandeur of the Sierra Nevada without a long hike. Whether you’re passing through on a day trip, exploring nearby trails like Zumwalt Meadow or Mist Falls, or simply looking for a tranquil spot to enjoy lunch surrounded by towering granite and roaring water, this is a can’t-miss stop in one of the most beautiful places in the United States.
Grizzly Falls gets its name from early European-American settlers who mistook the thunderous roar and wild energy of the waterfall for the presence of grizzly bears, which once roamed this region but have long since disappeared from the Sierra. While not as storied as the General Grant Tree or John Muir’s adventures in the nearby high country, the Grizzly Falls area has been a longtime roadside favorite, offering quick, easy access to the natural beauty of Kings Canyon National Park and Sequoia National Forest.
Grizzly Falls Picnic Area road marker
Grizzly Falls Waterfall
Grizzly Falls Picnic Area Plan
Our plan was to spend the day exploring the north side of Kings Canyon National Park, taking our time and turning the drive into part of the adventure. As we followed the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway deeper into the canyon, we decided to stop at a few scenic pullouts and points of interest in Sequoia National Forest along the way, enjoying the changing views of granite walls, rushing rivers, and forested slopes. After seeing photos of Grizzly Falls and learning how easy it was to reach, it quickly became the perfect lunch stop. The idea of a short walk to a beautiful, roadside waterfall—paired with picnic tables and the soothing sound of rushing water—made Grizzly Falls Picnic Area an ideal place to pause, eat, and soak in the natural beauty before continuing our day deeper into Kings Canyon.
Grizzly Falls crashing over the lower boulders
The water flowing downstream from the waterfall
Getting There
Location
Grizzly Falls Picnic Area is nestled along the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway (Highway 180), straddling the boundary between Kings Canyon National Park and Sequoia National Forest. This unique positioning means you’re surrounded by protected wilderness on both sides, offering a rich mix of towering giant sequoias, rugged granite cliffs, and vibrant riparian habitat. The picnic area is located about 8 miles east of the Cedar Grove Visitor Center and just past Boyden Cavern, near where Grizzly Creek meets the South Fork of the Kings River. A paved trail leads from the parking lot just a tenth of a mile to the base of the majestic waterfall. Whether you’re coming from Grant Grove Village or heading toward Road’s End, Grizzly Falls provides an accessible glimpse of the natural beauty found throughout both Sequoia National Forest and Kings Canyon National Park.
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit Grizzly Falls is in early summer, typically from May through mid-July, when water flow is at its peak from snowmelt, and the cool mist fills the air. This is peak season for the falls, and while the flow slows by late summer, the area remains a picturesque setting well into the warmer months. Avoid visiting in snowy winters when road conditions along the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway can close off access altogether.
The lower pool of the waterfall area
One of the multiple picnic tables in the picnic area
Grizzly Falls Picnic Area in Sequoia National Forest
Who Can Go?
Thanks to its mostly easy and short walk, Grizzly Falls is accessible to visitors of all ages. Families with young children and many elderly travelers will appreciate that you can reach the falls in just minutes without any significant uphill hiking. While the picnic area itself is flat and well-maintained, the trail near the waterfall becomes a bit more rugged and unpaved, so it may be less suitable for wheelchairs or strollers beyond the initial paved section.
What You'll See
The real star here is the 70-foot-tall waterfall crashing over a sheer cliff face, surrounded by mossy rock and granite walls. You might catch a glimpse of the cool mist drifting over the picnic tables, or watch butterflies and birds dart through the spray. In spring and early summer, the surrounding forest bursts with greenery, and the sound of the South Fork of the Kings River rushing nearby adds to the tranquil atmosphere. Look up—you’re in a canyon carved deep into the Sierra Nevada, and that geography alone is humbling.
Tyler and Ryan found a massive boulder to climb
Justin holding down our spot at one of the picnic tables
What to Bring & Wear
Bring a light jacket or poncho for the misty spray if you’re visiting in early summer, and wear shoes with good traction—the path can be slippery near the water. Pack snacks or a full meal to enjoy at the picnic tables, and bring plenty of water, especially if you’re continuing on toward Road’s End or other hikes. Don’t forget sunscreen, even in shaded areas, and a camera or smartphone for the epic waterfall shots.
Where to Go
If you’re starting from the Big Stump Entrance Station near Grant Grove Village, head east on the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway (Highway 180) toward Cedar Grove Visitor Center. After approximately 25 miles, you’ll pass Boyden Cavern—keep your eyes peeled for the well-marked Grizzly Falls Picnic Area parking area on the right side of the road. The parking lot is small but convenient, located directly off the highway. From the lot, follow the short, paved trail about a tenth of a mile downhill to reach the falls and picnic tables.
If you’re coming from the Cedar Grove Visitor Center heading west, drive about 8 miles along the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway; the picnic area will appear on your left side before you reach Boyden Cavern.
For those traveling from Road’s End, simply drive west on Highway 180 toward Grant Grove Village—the picnic area will be on the left shortly after passing Boyden Cavern.
No matter your direction, keep an eye out for signs and a pullout along the side of the road—Grizzly Falls is one of the most accessible and picturesque settings along this stretch of the highway.
The water was so pretty falling over the rocks
Grizzly Falls flowing over the granite cliffs
How Long Does it Take?
Expect to spend anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour here. The easy hike to the falls is just a tenth of a mile round trip, but the area is so relaxing that many visitors linger for a picnic, take photos, or just soak in the natural beauty.
Cost
Access to Grizzly Falls is free, but you’ll need to pay the park entrance fee if you’re coming through Sequoia National Park, Sequoia National Forest, or Kings Canyon National Park. As of now, that’s $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass—though interagency passes like the America the Beautiful Pass are accepted.
Closer look at the water flowing over the granite boulders
Justin getting our picnic lunch ready
Tips for Grizzly Falls Picnic Area in Sequoia National Forest
- Go early in the day during peak season to avoid crowds and secure a parking spot—the parking lot is small.
- Check current conditions on the NPS website before heading out, especially during spring when snowmelt can cause closures.
- Use the vault toilets available in the picnic area; there are no flush toilets here.
- Don’t skip Grant Grove or the General Grant Tree on your return trip—it’s one of the most unique places in the Sierra.
- Pair it with a stop at Road's End or the Lodgepole Campground for a full day in the Sierra.
- Bring bug spray—the cool mist attracts insects in warmer months.