Near Mist Falls
Palmer Mountain
Near Mist Falls
Top of Mist Falls
Near Mist Falls
Looking down towards roads end, going counter clock wise on the loop
Near Mist Falls
Another view of Mist Falls.
Near Mist Falls
Trail on way to Mist Falls

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Driving Directions
Classic Hike Route

Mist Falls

4.4 (28 Ratings)
Hike along the South Fork of the Kings River to cascading 100 foot waterfalls.
7.8
mi
Distance
1,120
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Regional Classic
A must do route for the area handpicked by local experts.
River/CreekViewsWaterfallWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
7.83mi
Distance
1,120ft
Elevation Gain
1,120ft
Elevation Loss
40%
Max Grade
5,800ft
High Point
5,020ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
The trail starts at the Road's End Ranger Station at the southeast corner of the loop at the end of the road. You can park at either lot, although the southern lot (the first one you'll come to) has more shade. The hike starts in a wide valley and gradually narrows as you approach the confluence where the Kings River forks.After about 2 miles you'll take a left to follow the South Fork of the Kings River. If you cross the Bailey Bridge, you've gone the wrong way--though the bridge does offer great views, so it might be worth a quick detour on the way back. From here to the waterfall there are no other trail intersections, so just keep following the trail until you reach the well-signed and visible Mist Falls. Keep in mind that there are some steep, unmarked drop-offs as the trail climbs through the canyon.When you get to the falls, you might consider following the trail up a bit further for different views looking down from the top of the waterfall. If you have the time, continuing a few extra miles to Paradise Valley is well worth it.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Konner Keefer