Copper Creek Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Commonly Backpacked · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Copper Creek Trail is a challenging and steep route in Kings Canyon National Park, featuring a relentless climb with numerous switchbacks and exposed sections. As you hike, the trail passes through aspen forests and meadows, offering stunning views of the surrounding Sierra peaks. Due to the hot and steep conditions, it's recommended to plan your hike for early morning or late evening to avoid the heat. This is commonly done as a day hike, and is also good for backpacking.

Permits are required for overnight camping in Kings Canyon National Park. Reserve in advance at Recreation.gov, especially during peak season. Water is available from small streams but must be treated or filtered. Parking is at the Copper Creek Trailhead near Road's End, but fills up fast—arrive early.

Starting at Road's End, the Copper Creek Trail begins at the trailhead of the same name. It is well graded, but all uphill for about 8 miles and climbs over 5,000 feet. The trail is very exposed (start early in the day!) with few sources of water. It's a butt kicker, especially if you are at the beginning of a trip with a full pack. There's decent camping and a bear box at Lower Tent Meadow (4 miles from the start), and very slanty "campsites" at Upper Tent Meadow, which is difficult to find, with no signage.

The Copper Creek Trail ends at the ridge called the Granite Lip, and from there the trail drops into Granite Basin. For those heading out for a longer hike, you can continue on the Simpson Meadow Trail at this point. There is no water at the Lip, so if you need to camp, do a brief 1/2 mile cross country to the outlet of Grouse Lake, north of the trail and east of the ridge.

If you are planning to finish this out and back as a day hike, turn around at the Lip, and enjoy the steady downhill back to your starting point. On the way back you can enjoy the many views that you earned on the way up!