Foothills Trails

Trail Closures and Notices

The access road to the following trails has been severely damaged by floods and landslides, and trailheads are not accessible by vehicle. These trails are not recommended until they can be assessed for flood and landslide damage. Anyone that decides to travel these trails should be self-reliant, as any assistance may be hampered by lack of road access and probable trail damage:

• Lady Bug Trail
• Garfield Grove Trail

Warning: Please travel with caution on other Foothills trails in burned areas.

Stay on trail. Do not hike off trail in burned areas. You may encounter falling trees or limbs, loose rocks, and flash flooding or debris flows. Portions of the trails may be blocked. For more information, please check our tips for safety in burned areas. 

 

The Middle Fork Trail follows the main branch of the Kaweah River, climbing to the high country of Sequoia National Park.

Rick Cain

 

Trails in the foothills are are accessible year-round. Fall brings cooler temperatures for hiking in this diverse environment. In winter and spring, the foothills are clothed in a glorious array of wildflowers. Late March through late May are especially colorful. As summer approaches the temperature rises, and so do the rivers. Avoid the dangerous rivers during this time!

Please note that pets are not permitted on any of the trails in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.

Marble Falls Trail

This trail climbs 3.9 miles (6km) through chaparral to a lovely cascade.
Park near site #14 at Potwisha Campground. Follow the dirt road across the concrete ditch. The trail starts along the steep bank to the right.

Middle Fork Trail

Leading through chaparral to highcountry, the first mile offers views of Moro Rock and Castle Rocks. Panther Creek Falls is 3 miles (5 km) from the parking area.
To reach the trail, take the Buckeye Flat Campground road and turn left on the dirt road before the campground. Go 1.3 miles (2 km) to a parking area. Park at Hospital Rock if Buckeye Flat is closed.

Lady Bug Trail

Hike along the South Fork of the Kaweah in the upper foothills (moderately steep). The trail ends 3 miles (5 km) near one of the lowest-elevation sequoia groves.
The trail begins at South Fork Campground. From the campground, cross the river via a footbridge to find the trailhead.

Garfield Grove Trail

This trail is a relatively steep 5-mile (8.3 km) one-way climb to the Garfield Sequoia Grove.
From. South Fork Campground start on the south side of the river in the campground.

North Fork Trail

This trail can be difficult to access. Please check at a visitor center for details.