A short walk to a powerful waterfall in Sequoia National Park, Roaring River Falls Trail is a great option for a quick, picturesque day hike.
Roaring River Falls Trail Basics
Under 1 Hour
Under 1 Mile
Out-and-Back Trail
40 Feet
Duration: Under 1 Hour
The estimated time for the round trip is about 15–30 minutes, making it perfect for a little effort adventure during a visit to the Cedar Grove area of Kings Canyon National Park.
Distance: Under 1 Mile
This short hike covers roughly 0.3 miles round trip, ideal for families or anyone looking to stretch their legs without committing to a long drive or strenuous trek.
Type: Out-and-Back Trail
The trail is a paved path leading from the Roaring River Falls trailhead to the bottom of the falls, making it an out-and-back trail.
Elevation Change: 40 Feet
The total elevation gain is minimal—just about 40 feet—so it’s a gentle ascent from the parking area down to the granite gorge that frames the falls.
Season: Spring, Summer
Late spring to early summer is the best time to visit, when the snowmelt swells the river and the waterfall is at its most powerful.
Time of Day: Early Morning
Early morning is ideal to avoid busy summer travel season crowds, enjoy the sounds of nature, and capture the surface of the water glistening in the soft sunlight.
Amount of Shade: Partly Shaded
The trail is partially shaded with lush conifers lining parts of the paved path, though much of it is exposed to sunlight near the granite chute and bottom of the falls.
Difficulty: Easy
With a difficulty rating of easy and little effort required, this short hike is accessible for nearly everyone, including families with children or older visitors.
What Makes Roaring River Falls Trail a Great Hike?
What makes Roaring River Falls Trail a great option is its combination of accessibility, the dramatic sight of a powerful waterfall, and the soothing sounds of the South Fork of the Kings River cascading over the granite gorge. It’s perfect for first-hand adventures without a long drive or strenuous climb.
Scenery on the Roaring River Falls Trail
Start of the Trail
The start of the trail features a tranquil river view with lush conifers and meadows that hint at the high point of the route and the sound of rushing water ahead.
There were giant boulders leading to the base of the waterfall, so of course we had to scramble on those to get closer!
Tyler and Ryan near the base of the waterfall
On the Trail
Along the paved trail, hikers are treated to the sights and sounds of nature, including the South Fork of the Kings River winding through granite chutes and the occasional glimpse of wildflowers and moss-covered rocks.
End of the Trail
At the bottom of the falls, you’ll be rewarded with a picturesque waterfall cascading over the granite gorge, the mist rising from the surface of the water creating a refreshing spray. It’s a perfect spot for photos and to pause and enjoy the day hike.
Notable Places on the Hike
Notable spots include the granite chute that channels the river, the lush meadows lining the trail, and the bottom of Kings Canyon, where the powerful waterfall thunders. First-hand adventures here offer a glimpse of the natural power of the South Fork.
The paved path was a quick, easy walk to Roaring River Falls
Stephanie near the base of the small but loud waterfall
Roaring River Falls Trailhead Information
Park Name: Kings Canyon National Park
Roaring River Falls Trail is located in Kings Canyon National Park, nestled in the scenic Cedar Grove area along the South Fork of the Kings River.
Finding the Trailhead
From the parking area near the side of the road at Road’s End, follow the signs for the Roaring River Falls trailhead. It’s well-marked by the National Park Service and easy to spot from the road.
Markers Along the Trail
Interpretive signs highlight the geology of the granite gorge and provide information about the South Fork of the Kings River, the dangerous currents, and the lush meadows and conifers that surround the falls.
Nearest Restrooms
Restrooms are available at the Cedar Grove Visitor Center, which is a short drive from the trailhead along the road’s end route.
Parking Area
A parking lot is located right at the Roaring River Falls trailhead, making it convenient for day hikers visiting from Cedar Grove Village or following the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway.
Other Trails at this Trailhead
Nearby trails include Hotel Creek Trail, Kanawyer Loop Trail, Zumwalt Meadow Loop Trail, and Rae Lakes Loop for longer day hikes or overnight adventures. The trailhead is accessible from the main Cedar Grove area and is a short detour from the paved path along the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway.
Tips for Roaring River Falls Trail
- Visit early morning to avoid crowds during the busy summer travel season.
- Wear sturdy shoes, as the surface of the water can make rocks slippery near the bottom of the falls.
- Take route guides or maps along as cell service is spotty in the area.
- Combine the hike with a stop at Cedar Grove Visitor Center to learn about the local giant sequoias and other waterfalls.
- Remember that dangerous currents are present, so do not attempt to enter the river.
Accessibility Information for Roaring River Falls Trail
Paved
Paved
Trail Type: Paved
The paved path and minimal elevation change make the trail wheelchair accessible.
Parking: Paved
The parking lot at the trailhead is also accessible, allowing the majority of users to experience the waterfall without difficulty.