Gateway Town

Cedar Grove

Gateway Town

Cedar Grove Lodge, market & visitor center in Kings Canyon's river valley—seasonal access only.

Quick facts

Town Type
Supply Depot
Best Known For
Cedar Grove Lodge and seasonal access to Kings Canyon's river valley
About This Town
Cedar Grove is the only lodging and services hub within Kings Canyon's river valley. The Cedar Grove Lodge, market, and visitor center support hikers accessing the Mist Falls and Roaring River Falls trailheads. The road closes mid-November through mid-April due to snow.
What Makes It Special
The only developed area in Kings Canyon's deepest river canyon; a starting point for world-class high-altitude hikes

Town overview

Town Type
Supply Depot
Best Known For
Cedar Grove Lodge and seasonal access to Kings Canyon's river valley
About This Town
Cedar Grove is the only lodging and services hub within Kings Canyon's river valley. The Cedar Grove Lodge, market, and visitor center support hikers accessing the Mist Falls and Roaring River Falls trailheads. The road closes mid-November through mid-April due to snow.
What Makes It Special
The only developed area in Kings Canyon's deepest river canyon; a starting point for world-class high-altitude hikes

Park access

Distance From Park
11.4 km (7 miles) from Kings Canyon National Park center; within the park

Where to stay & eat

Hotel Count
1
Bnb Count
0
Lodging Variety
Cedar Grove Lodge only
Restaurant Count
1
Restaurant Types
Lodge dining and market

Visitor services

Grocery Stores
Market at Cedar Grove Lodge (seasonal)

Things to do

Main Attractions
Gateway to Mist Falls and Roaring River Falls trailheads; scenic Kings River valley
Summer Activities
Hiking to Mist Falls and Roaring River Falls, visiting the Cedar Grove Visitor Center, scenic valley drives

Planning advice

Peak Season
June through September, when the road is open and day-use crowds peak
Shoulder Season
May and October offer lighter crowds with road access; spring and fall weather can be unpredictable
Booking Advance
Book Cedar Grove Lodge 6+ months in advance for summer; availability is severely limited
Late Night Intel
Most dining ends by early evening; the lodge restaurant has limited hours. Plan dinners early. The market is open during daylight hours only; stock up on supplies before arrival.
The Vibe
A remote, essential mountain canyon logistics hub. Minimal frills, maximum utility. There to serve hikers and river valley visitors, not curate ambiance.
Best Time To Visit
Late spring through early fall (mid-May to mid-October), when the road is open and weather is stable
Tips Advice
  • Arrive with a full tank; no gas stations in the canyon.
  • Book lodging as early as possible (6+ months).
  • Pack food; market selection is limited.
  • Check road conditions before heading in.
  • The road closes abruptly when snow arrives in fall.

More details

Visitor Center Location
Cedar Grove Visitor Center in Cedar Grove hamlet
Winter Scene
Closed to vehicle traffic; road impassable due to snow mid-November to mid-April
Insider Tips
  • The visitor center staff can advise on trail conditions daily.
  • Roaring River Falls is short, wet, and spectacular.
  • Camp in the four nearby campgrounds if the lodge is full.
  • Arrive early to secure day-use parking near trailheads.

Location

Frequently asked questions

Is Cedar Grove open year-round?

No. The road closes mid-November through mid-April due to snow. Call ahead to confirm current conditions.

Where can I stay in Cedar Grove?

Cedar Grove Lodge is the only lodging. Book 6+ months in advance for summer weekends.

Is there food and groceries?

Yes. The lodge operates a restaurant and market seasonally, but selection is limited. Arrive prepared to cook or eat early.

What are the best hikes from here?

Mist Falls (5.5 miles round-trip) and Roaring River Falls (0.7 miles) are the main day hikes, both accessed from Road's End nearby.

Do I need a park entrance fee?

Yes. $35 per vehicle for Kings Canyon National Park (valid 7 days). Entrance fees cover both Sequoia & Kings Canyon together.

Is there cell service or WiFi?

Limited. Check with Cedar Grove Lodge about WiFi availability; cell service is spotty in the canyon.

Independence

No-frills town 36km from Sequoia. Two motels, one café—closes early. Last fuel stop.

Hume

Hume sits 30km west of Kings Canyon. 11 motels, casual dining, practical staging point. Book ahead for peak season.

Three Rivers

Your pit stop before Sequoia. 26 miles south, solid lodging, and cheaper gas than the park.

Sources

  • YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated July 2026. Report an issue.