Mist Falls Adventure Begins

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During our Memorial Day weekend trip to Kings Canyon National Park, we set out on one of the park’s most iconic hikes—the Mist Falls Trail.

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At 7.8 miles round-trip, this moderate hike winds through lush forests, granite canyons, and alongside the rushing South Fork of the Kings River. We began our journey on a warm and sunny morning, full of anticipation.

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A Trail Full of Life

Trail View

The first stretch of the trail was relatively flat and surrounded by towering pines and blooming wildflowers. The sound of the river kept us company as we made our way deeper into the canyon.

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The sunlight filtering through the trees gave the whole landscape a vibrant glow.

Trail View

Songs from the Canopy

Dark-eyed Junco

Birdsong followed us along the trail. We spotted a couple of Dark-eyed Juncos hopping near the path and saw a few American Robins flitting between branches. Their cheerful presence added even more energy to the already beautiful surroundings.

American Robin

Bright Colors in the Trees

Western Tanager (Female)

One of the highlights of the hike was catching sight of a pair of Western Tanagers. Their bold yellow and red plumage stood out brilliantly against the forest background.

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We paused to admire them for a few minutes before they darted off into the trees.

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A Curious Flycatcher

Western Wood-Pewee

A little farther along, we came across a Western Wood-Pewee, perched calmly on a branch near the trail. This small flycatcher had a steady, alert posture, and it gave a few short calls before taking off. Not long after, a Steller’s Jay appeared with its trademark noisy call and striking blue feathers.

Steller’s Jay

A Wild Encounter

Black Bear

Then came a moment we’ll never forget. As we rounded a gentle curve in the trail, we suddenly spotted a Black Bear right on the path ahead. It was calmly walking in our direction. We quietly took a few steps back and gave it plenty of space.

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The bear glanced at us briefly before continuing on its way down the trail and disappearing into the woods. It was our first bear encounter ever, and it left us both thrilled and a bit in awe.

Trail View

Reaching Mist Falls

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As we continued, the trail began to climb. We could hear Mist Falls before we saw it—the roar of the cascading water building with each step. When we arrived, we were rewarded with views of a powerful, thundering waterfall spilling over smooth granite. The cool mist on our faces was refreshing after the steady climb.

Newberry's penstemon

Resting in the Canyon

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We found a spot to rest, enjoy a snack, and take in the canyon views. The sun was still shining, and the forest seemed to shimmer in the light. Surrounded by the sounds of rushing water and the breeze moving through the trees, we felt completely in tune with the landscape around us.

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A Day to Remember

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The hike back was just as enjoyable, with the morning’s wildlife encounters replaying in our minds. From colorful birds to a peaceful bear encounter, the Mist Falls Trail gave us one of our most unforgettable hikes yet.

Northern Alligator Lizard

Kings Canyon has a way of turning a simple walk into a story worth telling—and this one will stick with us for a long time.

Foothill lupine