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California
1,520 ft
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Why you'll love it
Middle Fork Trailhead
AI-suggested draft · review before you go
No permit or access details on file for this trail — check with the local land manager before you go.
<p>This trailhead orientation panel shows a map and photos of the Middle Fork area.<br /> <br /> In fall 2021, the KNP Complex Wildfire burned much of the surrounding area. While wilderness permits are available for this area, if you enter here, nearby exit points may be closed due to extensive damage during 2023 winter storms, including but not limited to trailheads exiting in the Mineral King and Cedar Grove area. Please be sure you exit the wilderness in an open area. Consult the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/maps/full.html?mapId=1289d23f-9dd3-4401-9f16-030bb78c259a">closed area map</a> for more details. If you start a wilderness trip here, please obtain a wilderness permit at the Foothills Visitor Center. </p> <h4>Directions</h4> <p>To access this trailhead, follow the Generals Highway. Directly across from the Hospital Rock Picnic Area, turn onto the Buckeye Flat Campground Road. From here, you will encounter a dirt road on the left—turn here to follow the narrow, often-times single lane Middle Fork Access Road to the trailhead. Parking is extermely limited here (~8 vehicles).<br /> <br /> This road is closed during rainy weather, and during the winter season (late September to early April). During this time of year, park at the Hospital Rock Picnic Area and walk in. </p>

Hospital Rock River Trailhead
~2 min drive
<p>A short steep downhill climb will lead you to the Kaweah River, which is one of the most scenic spots in all of the foothill region of the park. The water can be dramatic especially during spring and early summer when the snow is melting.</p> <h4>Safety </h4> <p>Be careful…
Stony Creek
~18 min drive
Moderate 7-mile creek trail with 2,500 ft elevation gain.
Jo Pass
~21 min drive
Scenic alpine pass hike with steady elevation gain and mountain views.

Moro Rock Trailhead
~3 min drive
<p>Welcome to one of the most popular and spectacular hikes in these parks. To reach the top of this granite dome, take the stairway that climbs up 300 feet (.09 km) to the 6,275 ft (2,050 km) summit.<br /> <br /> At the top is a spectacular 360° view from the Great Western Di…

Trailbuilders
~3 min drive
<p>This wayside exhibit, titled "Shaping a Park, Trailbuilders," shows photos and text about the trail builders that shaped this park.</p>

High Sierra Trailhead
~3 min drive
<p>The historic High Sierra Trail is a marvel of engineering that stays relatively level for its first portion, offering views of wilderness without the steep climbs of other park trails. Hike 11 miles one-way (22 miles round-trip) to Bearpaw Meadow, where you can camp in desi…

Crescent Meadow Picnic Area and Trailhead
~3 min drive
<p>The Crescent Meadow Picnic Area is 2.6 miles from the Giant Forest Museum, near Moro Rock and several trailheads. The picnic area rests at the edge of a lush meadow, surrounded by giant sequoias. <br /> <br /> From here, you can follow the High Sierra Trail deep in the wild…

Hazelwood Nature Trail-Alta Trail Junction
~5 min drive
This trailhead sign includes a map indicating the junction of the Hazelwood Nature Trail Loop with the Alta Trail, which heads west towards the Giant Forest Museum.

Hazelwood Nature Trail Trailhead
~5 min drive
<p>The Hazelwood Nature Trail features a 0.5-mile (0.8-km) loop trail. This firm-packed trail has an elevation gain of approximately 50 feet (15 m). The average trail grade is 6.5% (maximum 10%) and the maximum cross slope is less than 2%. The trail is 6 feet wide. <br /> <br…

Giant Forest Museum Trail Center
~5 min drive
<p>Trails from here can lead you past the giant trees and lush meadows in this sequoia grove, whether you are an experienced hiker who wants to see miles of the parks or you would just like a gentle half-hour walk. Trails in this area can be confusing. We recommend purchasing…