Road's End

Access to the Cedar Grove area via Highway 180 closes for the winter in mid-November. Access typically reopens the fourth Friday in April; reopening is conducted by CalTrans. Road's End is the last stop in the Cedar Grove area, at the literal end of Highway 180. This area is the jumping off point for many high Sierra hiking trails, but also is an access point for easy trails in the valley. Here, you’ll find a short path to Muir Rock, located along the Kings River. This large granite boulder is named in honor of the naturalist John Muir. The trail has a hard-packed dirt surface. Nearby, a wilderness permit office has a rudimentary ramp to access the building and inquire about local trails. Cross the street from the office to reach accessible vault restrooms. Safety Don't be fooled if the river appears calm and safe for swimming here. The rocks are slippery and the currents below the surface of the water can easily drag you under. Drowning in rivers like this one is the most common cause of death in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Kings Canyon is a very active bear area. Be sure to stow anything with a scent in the food storage lockers. Bears have a keen sense of smell and can cause significant damage to your vehicle. Location Roads End is the final loop at the end of Highway 180 in Cedar Grove. Visitors going to Cedar Grove will need to drive approximately one hour down Highway 180 from the Kings Canyon Visitor Center. Parking There is a moderate sized parking lot at the trailhead for Roaring River with overflow and overnight parking in the same lot.