Cedar Grove Overlook Trail

The trail that leads to Cedar Grove Overlook begins a short distance north of Cedar Grove Village on a spur from the road that passes the lodge. The trail is signed as Hotel Creek, although it doesn't follow the creek for very long. Hotel Creek Trail leads north, climbing steeply on many switchbacks. It is two and a half miles to the overlook. The trail gains 1,200 feet in the first two miles. It leads through an exposed, southern aspect, which can be very hot on a summer day.

Before reaching the overlook hikers will come upon a trail junction. Follow the left side of the fork to the Cedar Grove Overlook. It's approximately one half mile from the junction to the overlook. The route is relatively easy from this trail junction forward. Upon reaching the overlook hikers will enjoy views of Monarch Divide to the north, Monarch Wilderness to the southwest and Kings Canyon to the east.

The round-trip mileage to reach the Cedar Grove Overlook via Horse Creek Trail is five miles. To increase the mileage to seven miles and form a loop around the overlook walk north from the overlook spur trail. This will lead you into a recently burned pine forest. Hikers will enjoy the coverage provided by the conifers that grow along Horse Creek Trail north of the overlook spur. This portion of the trail is moderately difficult.

One and a half miles north of the overlook trail Hotel Creek Trail ends at Lewis Creek Trail. Follow this trail to the left (south), which will lead to Highway 180. This trail descends approximately 800 feet in the two miles of tread that leads to the highway. Once you reach the highway turn left and follow the road or the trail that parallels it. It is one mile to the Horse Creek Trailhead.

Sequoia Kings Canyon National Park, 47050 Generals Highway , Three Rivers, CA, 93271-9651, Phone: 559-565-3341, Fax: 559-565-3730, TTY: 559-565-3196