Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
Knapp's Cabin Trail
easy FamiliesHistory BuffsPhotographers
0.2 mi Distance
Varies Estimated Time
roundtrip Trail Type
What to Expect
This is less a hike and more a stroll — a flat, paved-then-dirt path that takes about five minutes each way along the South Fork of the Kings River in Cedar Grove. The trail winds through a shaded corridor of mixed conifers before opening up at George Knapp's 1920s fishing cabin, a rustic wooden structure that Santa Barbara's wealthy once used as a base camp for backcountry fishing trips. The cabin sits right on the riverbank with granite canyon walls towering on both sides, and during snowmelt season the river runs fast and loud enough to drown out conversation. It's the kind of spot where you park yourself on a rock, watch the water, and wonder why anyone bothers with longer trails. Perfect for families with small kids, anyone recovering from a bigger hike in the Cedar Grove area, or history buffs who want a taste of Kings Canyon's resort-era past.
Trail Details
Distance 0.2 miles round-trip
Difficulty easy
Estimated Time Varies
Trail Type roundtrip
Pets Not allowed
Season Year-round
Trailhead Knapp's Cabin Trail
Pro Tips
Trail Tip
Pair this with the nearby Roaring River Falls and Zumwalt Meadow trails for a Cedar Grove trifecta — all three are short enough to knock out in a single morning before the canyon heats up.
Trail Tip
The cabin faces the river with excellent afternoon light filtering through the canyon walls — bring a camera and shoot from the downstream side for the best composition with the granite backdrop.
Trail Tip
Cedar Grove Road (Highway 180) is only open seasonally, typically late April through mid-November depending on snow — check the NPS road status page before driving out, because there's no alternate route in.
