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Kings Canyon Visitor Center: Gateway to Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

Your adventure starts here! Maps, exhibits, permits & expert advice await at the gateway to Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks.

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The Kings Canyon Visitor Center, located in Grant Grove Village, is your starting point for exploring the wonders of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Here, you can gather information, browse exhibits, obtain permits, and learn about the diverse features of the parks, from giant sequoias to the High Sierra.

A brief summary to Kings Canyon Visitor Center

  • Monday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially during peak season, to avoid crowds and secure parking.
  • Check the park's website or bulletin boards for ranger-led programs and activities.
  • Pick up a park map and plan your route in advance, noting any road closures or advisories.
  • Borrow a wheelchair for free at the visitor center, Giant Forest Museum, or Lodgepole Visitor Center.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From the Big Stump Entrance of Kings Canyon National Park, head east on Highway 180 for approximately 3 miles (5 km). The Kings Canyon Visitor Center will be located in Grant Grove Village. Parking is available in the Grant Grove Village parking lot, with designated accessible spaces. Be aware of possible vehicle length restrictions on certain park roads.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by public transportation from Visalia or Fresno, take the Sequoia Shuttle or Big Trees Transit to the Grant Grove Village area. From the shuttle drop-off point, the visitor center is a short walk away. Check the shuttle schedules and make reservations in advance.

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Discover more about Kings Canyon Visitor Center

Located in Grant Grove Village, the Kings Canyon Visitor Center serves as an essential first stop for visitors to Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks. Situated three miles from the Big Stump Entrance on Highway 180, the center provides a comprehensive introduction to the parks' diverse landscapes and attractions. Inside, you'll find exhibits highlighting the three major features of the park: the giant sequoias, Kings Canyon, and the High Sierra. Take time to watch the park film to get an overview of the park's natural and human history. Knowledgeable rangers are available to answer questions, provide guidance, and issue wilderness permits. The visitor center also offers maps, books, and gifts. The Kings Canyon Visitor Center is more than just an information hub. It's an accessible gateway to a variety of experiences. Explore the Grant Grove of giant sequoias, hike to scenic overlooks and waterfalls, or embark on a journey along the Generals Highway. The visitor center also provides information about trails and facilities managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Grant Grove Village offers a range of amenities, including lodging, a market, a restaurant, camping facilities, showers, a post office, and a gift shop. The area around the visitor center provides accessible restrooms, a lowered pay phone, water fountains, and benches.

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