Distance: 8.1 miles round trip on trail
Summit Elevation: 5688'
Elevation Gain: 1060'
Elevation Gain (in Empire State Buildings): 0.8
Round trip time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Recommended water: 32 oz.
Parking/Fees: $35 National Parks Fee (one car for 7 days)
Difficulty: Easy
Mist Falls is one of the most popular hikes in Kings Canyon. The trail starts at Road's End where there was plenty of parking. Leisa wanted to get ahead of the crowds. The first couple of miles were flat, walking along the King's River between towering granite walls. It reminded me of a smaller version of Yosemite Valley. The trail turns north to follow the south fork of King's River. Before we reached the turn, Leisa spotted a large black bear ahead of us moving the same direction. It was walking slower than us so we were able to get closer before we were spotted. The bear had an ear tag, so was known to the rangers, but was uninterested in us. Mr. bear continued on the trail, stopping to sniff the trees and ground now and then. Eventually, it left the trail to do bear things, only glancing our way once or twice. We always appreciate wild life encounters.
As we moved toward Mist Falls, we started gaining some elevation. The river was roaring and dangerous, with several small falls to enjoy. After one major switchback, we got a fantastic view back down canyon to the Sphinx, some 4000' above the river. It looked unclimbable, but it has been done following a route from behind. We hiked through intermittent shade and sun as the forest ebbed. There were a handful of people milling around Mist Falls when we arrived. We took a short use trail to get closer to the falls with mist hitting us immediately. The falls were bigger than I imagined from photos. An impressive display of power. We took a short break before heading back. Throngs of people, some groups of more than a dozen, were making their way out while we were going in. We passed at least 150 people, proving Leisa's wisdom for the early start.
No comments:
Post a Comment