Thing to Do

Panoramic Point and Park Ridge Winter Trail

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

A snow covered trail going uphill, surrounded by pine trees.
Panoramic Point is often very snowy and has a strong uphill climb.

Panoramic Point offers spectacular views of the snow-covered mountains in Kings Canyon. One of the most popular winter trails in this area, Panoramic Point begins at the village and follows the unplowed road to the top of Park Ridge. Elevation gain is approximately 1,000 feet in 2.5 miles. The trail continues south 2.5 miles on Park Ridge to the Park Ridge Fire Lookout. From the saddle 0.2 miles east of the lookout the trail makes a loop. You can return to Panoramic Point via either segment of the loop by following the markers. 

Trail Information:
  • Trailhead: Panoramic Point Road (northeast end of visitor center parking area)
  • Distance: Panoramic Point 5 miles round-trip (8 km)
    Lookout 10 miles round-trip (16 km)
  • Difficulty: Medium
  • Elevation Gain/Loss: Panoramic Point - 920 feet, Park Ridge Fire Lookout - 1500 feet
  • Markers: Yellow
For a complete map of winter trails, check out our Park Newspaper. For more detailed trail information, please visit our Maps page.
 
Details
The duration will vary depending on fitness level, snow conditions, and length of time spent at trail features.
This trail is designated as a cross-country ski trail, but can also be used for snowshoeing. Due to the snowy and icy conditions on the trail, hiking without traction devices is not recommended. 
Qualified service animals are welcome throughout the park and in all park facilities. However, they must be leashed and under your control at all times.
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Begin this trail at the Grant Grove Village parking lot next to the Grant Grove Visitor Center. Look for Panoramic Point Road.
Reservations
No
Season
Winter
Generally, skiers and snowshoers are recommended to recreate during daylight hours for winter safety concerns. 
Accessibility Information
This groomed ski trail follows a paved road for the first 2.5 miles and includes a steep uphill/downhill. At the Grant Grove visitor center, there is one accessible parking space, accessible flush restrooms, and drinking fountains at the trailhead.

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

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An illustration of a yellow circle with a simple black outline.
Follow the route marker above to safely stay on the Panoramic Point and Park Ridge winter trail.

Route Marker Information

Trails that are buried under snow are very difficult to follow, so it is best to stick to trails marked for winter travel. Ski trails - open to skiing, snowshoe, and hiking - are marked by different symbols nailed to trees along their routes.

The route marker for the Panoramic Point and Park Ridge winter trail is a yellow circle.

Caution

Please do not snowshoe or walk directly on ski tracks. The tread of snowshoes (or boots) can create divots and ruin carefully laid ski tracks, creating hazards for skiers. Skiers/snowshoers going uphill yield to those going downhill. Fill in depressions in the snow after falling to reduce hazards to others. Visit our Skiing and Snowshoeing page for safety tips, guidance, and snowshoe ranger program information.


More on Winter Trails in the Parks

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Last updated: December 16, 2024