Panoramic Point

Panoramic Point is the best easy viewpoint in the Grant Grove area, a rocky overlook at about 7,500 feet that looks east across the deep canyons of the Kings River to the peaks of the Sierra crest. From the end of a narrow road a few miles above Grant Grove Village, a short paved path climbs steeply for a quarter mile or so to the overlook, with interpretive signs naming the peaks and canyons spread before you. On a clear day you can see Hume Lake in the forest below, the snowy summits of the Great Western Divide and the Monarch Divide, and the layers of ridges falling away toward the canyon. The viewpoint is a good place to understand the geography of the park, because the vast gorge of Kings Canyon, one of the deepest in North America, is visible in profile from here. The road is steep and narrow, with a few tight curves, and large vehicles and trailers are not recommended. It is typically open from late spring through autumn and closed once snow arrives. In winter, skiers and snowshoers can follow the closed road to the viewpoint, which makes a satisfying outing of several miles round trip through quiet forest. The viewpoint is also a popular sunrise and sunset spot, so bring a flashlight and a jacket if you plan to arrive at the edge of the day. A picnic area nearby and the short distance from the village make it an easy addition to a Grant Grove visit.

What to look for. Use the interpretive signs to pick out the major features: the crest of the Sierra in the distance, the Monarch Divide that separates the Kings River's forks, and the dark band of forest around Hume Lake. In summer haze can obscure the lowest valley views, while autumn and early winter often bring the clearest air. After a storm, clouds may fill the canyon below you, creating a sea-of-clouds scene that photographers love.

Getting there. From Grant Grove Village, follow signs for Panoramic Point and drive the paved but winding road for a couple of miles to the parking area. The walk to the overlook is short but steep enough to notice at altitude. The path is paved but not fully accessible to wheelchairs because of its slope. Bring a layer even in summer, since the wind at the top can be strong and cool.

Combining it. Panoramic Point pairs with the General Grant Tree for a half-day in Grant Grove, and with the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway if you want to see the canyon from below. If you are staying in the village, sunrise here is a quiet and rewarding start to the day. In winter, check with the visitor center about snow conditions and rental options for snowshoes. Avoid the road when icy, and never walk off the edge of the viewpoint, as the drop-offs are steep and loose.

Safety. The edges of the overlook drop steeply into the canyon, and there are few barriers in places, so stay on the path and keep children and pets under control. Afternoon thunderstorms in summer can bring lightning to exposed ridges, so leave if the sky darkens. In winter, ice and snow on the road make the walk or ski a serious outing, and you should tell someone where you are going and carry a headlamp and extra layers.