Actually a cataract,
Roaring River Falls is just off CA-180 which winds up Kings Canyon along the South
Fork of Kings River, a little more than 6 miles beyond Grizzly Falls. This area of California is under the jurisdiction of the
National Park Service but split among three preserves: Giant Sequoia National
Monument (into which you first venture on CA-180) and Kings Canyon National
Park into which you enter just east of Grizzly Falls. These are both
administered under the Sequoia National Park (just south of Kings Canyon so if
you need to write for more information on these wonders and the many others in
the area, visit their web site at:
Of course, you may
phone 559-565-3341 or write to
NPS - SEKI
47050
Generals Highway
Three Rivers, CA 93271-9651
How to get there:
Warning:
While the Park Service entrance station is open year-round, the section of
CA-180 leading from the intersection of CA-198 ('Generals Highway') to
Roaring River Falls is only open from about Memorial Day weekend through the month
of October. Plus, this area can be very populated in July and August. June
is the best month for viewing the falls both because there aren't as many
other visitors and because the water flow is usually more abundant.
From US-99 freeway
in Fresno take CA-180 east through Fresno to the Big Stump Entrance Station
(about 50 miles)*. Stop in and collect some brochures on the area. Just past
the entrance station, CA-180 branches off to the left (north). The
intersection is well signed but watch that you don't go breezing by and wind
up visiting the Sequoia National Park, instead.
Now you will pass
through some of the giant Sequoia groves (well worth the stop). Continue on
and you'll encounter the South Branch of King River and enter King Canyon.
First,
Grizzly Falls will be on your left (well marked) with an excellent parking
area. Continue about 7 miles and you'll see the parking area for Roaring
River Falls. A short, well-maintained trail takes you to the falls.
| * |
We strongly
recommend you refuel in Fresno. Not only will it be less expensive
but there are few places to refuel east of Fresno and none in the
National Parks. |
For some photos
of Grizzly Falls, see:
