Near Simpson Meadow Trail
Near Simpson Meadow Trail
Near Simpson Meadow Trail
Near Simpson Meadow Trail
Near Simpson Meadow Trail

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Hike Route

Simpson Meadow Trail

No rating
15.7
mi
Distance
1,760
ft
Gain
extreme
Difficulty
LakeWildflowers

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
15.65mi
Distance
1,760ft
Elevation Gain
6,193ft
Elevation Loss
50%
Max Grade
10,667ft
High Point
5,906ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
The Simpson Meadow Trail is a 14.7-mile point-to-point trail located in Kings Canyon National Park. Located in the backcountry, this trail is rugged, remote, and accessible only by trail. The trail connects Simpson Meadow, the Middle Fork Kings River, and Copper Creek Trail. It passes through pine forests, lush meadows, wildflower meadows, and sparkling alpine lakes. It provides access to the State Lakes Loop Trail and Granite Lake. It enters the Granite Basin and climbs up and over the Monarch Divide and Granite Pass. At the MIddle Fork Kings River the Simpson Meadow Trail intersects the Tehipite Trail and the MIddle Fork Kings River Trail providing visitors with plenty of opportunities to extend their trip and explore more remote trails in the Sierra Nevada. Due to the remote nature of the Simpson Meadow Trail, it is best used as part of a longer backpacking trip. Permits are required for overnight stays in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks (see below for details). This route starts at the north end of Copper Creek Trail and heads north towards Simpson Meadow. However, you may complete the Simpson Meadow Trail in either direction.PERMITS AND CAMPINGWilderness permits are required for overnight camping in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks. Fees and regulations may vary depending on the time of year (quota season vs. non-quota season). For updated information about wilderness permits please visit: https://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/wilderness_permits.htm. TRANSPORTATIONThe Simpson Meadow Trail can be reached via the Copper Creek Trail which is located at the Roads End Parking Area. Roads End features a large parking area, bear lockers/food storage boxes, potable water, trash facilities, and a small ranger station are available at Road's End. For more information about Roads End and the amenities offered there please visit: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/sequoia/recarea/?recid=79616.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
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Contributors
Lani Advokat