The Mineral King Valley lies in Sequoia National Park not far from the famed Giant Sequoia trees. However, due to difficult access, it remains a sparsely visited mountain destination.
Mineral King is most famously known as the location of a potential Disney Ski Resort. However, the Ski Resort never came to fruition and the valley was henceforth protected as it joined as an extension of Sequoia National Park. Although having National Park recognition, it remains under the radar as a beautiful summer destination and California’s hidden gem.
Getting There
Mineral King lies just South of the main portion of Sequoia National Park and East of Visalia in central California. The road to Mineral King leaves Highway 198 at the town of Three Rivers and winds just 21 miles but gains 7,000 ft elevation with over 630 curves. The rudimentary road makes for a challenging drive which is a main reason that Mineral King remains a hidden gem.
Where To Stay
The only lodging is at Silver City Mountain Resort where rooms range from $165 to $450 a night. The resort also has a nice yet rustic restaurant providing excellent meals.
There are also 2 campgrounds which are both first-come first-served. Atwell Mill Campground is the first campground off Mineral King Road and has 21 sites. Cold Springs Campground lies only one mile from the end of the road and is closer to many of the trailheads into the wilderness. The 40 sites are set near the river and are relatively small sites but in a great location. Both campgrounds are tent only with water, a fire ring, picnic table and vault toilets.
The Valley
Mineral King Valley is a beautiful alpine valley 7 miles long and 1 mile wide at 7,400 ft surrounded by mountains over 11,000 ft. The East fork of the Kaweah River flows through aspen trees and wildflower filled meadows providing a serene setting as the mountains rise all around.
To Do
There are many multi-day hikes that launch from this valley into the Sequoia National Forest. Great day hikes can also be found in the area to alpine lakes or mountain peaks. The most popular day hikes are to Eagle Lake and to the Mosquito Lakes. These lakes share the same trail for the first couple miles until 1.4 miles out the trail splits going to their respective lakes. Other hikes to Franklin or Crystal lakes are more strenuous. One of the most popular peaks to hike in this area is Sawtooth Peak if you want more of a challenge. If you simply want to stroll in the valley you can walk the Cold Springs Nature Trail which meanders along the river in the valley and provides great views. Or you can hike the length of the valley from the end of the road along the Mineral King Road trail.
