South Boundary Loop Trail

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks neighbor each other to south of Yosemite and west of Death Valley. They have been described as "A Land of Giants," owing to their towering mountains, deep canyons, rugged foothills, large caverns, and some of the largest trees in the world. A network of hiking trails allows visitors to easily experience the richness of this diverse natural environment.

The South Boundary Loop begins in the vicinity of bustling Grant Grove Village. It is secluded and little traveled, largely because it is more difficult to hike than some of the other routes in the area. From the trailhead at an elevation of 6,620 feet, the path begins as a challenging downhill trek. It takes hikers past pines and oaks to a flat section just above Sequoia Creek. A small waterfall and glimpses of the private community of Wilsonia can be seen along the way, before the trail rises steeply back to the higher elevation and crosses a highway at the end.

The total length of the South Boundary Loop Trail is 4.6 miles. It is well marked with orange circles, making it rather easy to keep from going astray. The hike is best conducted in May through October, although the parks are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, as weather allows. Wilderness permits are required for overnight camping, but not for day hikes.