Don Cecil Trail
The Don Cecil Trail climbs the relatively cool north-facing slope of the canyon.
Plan Around Don Cecil Trail
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Don Cecil Trail Details
Before Highway 180 was finished in 1939, the Don Cecil Trail was the major access route to Cedar Grove. Today's trail climbs the relatively cool north-facing slope of the canyon. You'll begin at the trailhead off Highway 180 in Cedar Grove Village, hiking up through pine woods. After about a mile, the trail enters a relatively level glen that features Sheep Creek, and finally ends at a dirt road. To the right is another trail, marked with a small trail sign, which continues the climb to Lookout Peak. It's a steady uphill for about 6.5 miles (one way) from here, with the trail passing through open Sierra pine forest that unfortunately offers little shade. The trail ends just short of the top of the mountain.
Difficulty
High
Distance
8.25 miles
Estimated time
10 hours
Region
N/A
Nearby Parks Around Don Cecil Trail
Compare nearby parks around Don Cecil Trail when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Don Cecil Trail
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Don Cecil Trail while the map context is still fresh.
0.0 mi away
Sheep Creek Cascade Trail
This two-mile round trip takes about 1-1/2 hours and gains 600 feet in elevation.
0.7 mi away
Lookout Peak
Beyond Sheep Creek, the climb to Lookout Peak provides an incredible panorama of the park's backcountry.
0.7 mi away
Sheep Creek
Located on Highway 180, 1/4 mile from Cedar Grove Village.
0.9 mi away
Cedar Grove Lodge
Located within Cedar Grove Village, deep in the canyon of the Kings Canyon itself.