Overview
The upper Kern River flows south through one of the deepest canyons in California, a fault-controlled gorge with walls rising several thousand feet from the water. Sequoia National Forest manages the corridor, and the Kern River Trail follows the east bank of the river for 8 miles from the Johnsondale Bridge area downstream, keeping mostly to flat terrain with only 400 feet of elevation change across the full length.
This is a trail defined by the river rather than the views from above. The canyon is so deep and narrow that the sky is often a strip of blue between high granite walls. The river is present throughout, sometimes a rushing torrent in spring, sometimes a series of clear pools and gravel bars in late summer. Wildlife is abundant in the riparian corridor: black bears, deer, river otters, and numerous bird species.
The trail draws two distinct types of visitors: hikers looking for a long, low-intensity walk in a spectacular setting, and anglers who use the footpath to access the wild trout fishery. Both groups tend to encounter very few other people beyond the first mile or so from the trailhead. For a comparison of how national forests and national parks differ in access and management, see our national forest vs. national park overview.
The Route
Miles 0 to 2.0 (Johnsondale to First Canyon Narrows): The trail departs the Johnsondale Bridge parking area and immediately enters the river corridor. The path stays close to the water on river-cobble and sandy terrain. The canyon walls define the horizon on both sides. A few dispersed camping sites are visible on high-bank terraces above the river. The first good swimming holes appear around mile 1.5 where the river widens around a gravel bar.
Miles 2.0 to 4.0 (Canyon Narrows): The canyon narrows in this section and the walls close in. The trail requires some boulder hopping along the bank in a few spots. The river runs faster through this section even in late summer. The shaded canyon keeps temperatures comfortable even on hot days.
Miles 4.0 to 4.0 (Turnaround): Most day hikers turn around at the 4-mile mark where a side canyon opens on the east side and the main canyon bends west. Continuing further requires more boulder scrambling and eventually reaches technical terrain. The turnaround provides a flat bank with good views up and down the canyon.
The Return: The return follows the same route. The flat terrain makes the return trip the same effort as the approach.
When to Visit
The Kern River Trail is one of the most seasonally flexible trails in the forest. The lower canyon is accessible from April through October in most years, and short sections near the trailhead are accessible year-round. Spring (April-May) brings high water and dramatic whitewater in the canyon, but trail walking may be limited by overflow sections. Late summer (July-October) is the best season for swimming and full-length hiking.
The trail is shaded for most of its length, making it a good choice for hot summer days when higher-elevation hikes may not be comfortable for different reasons. Check current water levels and trail conditions before visiting via the pre-trip resources in our conditions guide.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry 1.5 to 2 liters of water, though river water is available throughout for those with a filter or purification tablets. Individual needs vary with temperature. For summer swimming visits, water shoes or sandals improve access to the rocky river banks.
Consider bringing:
- Water filter or purification tablets for river water
- Sandals or water shoes for swimming access
- A fishing license and tackle if planning to fish
- Sunscreen for exposed sections in the lower canyon
- Extra snacks for the long flat sections, which invite slow travel
Practical Details
No permit is required for day hiking. Dispersed overnight camping is permitted in the corridor with a free campfire permit for any open fire. The Kern River's safety record warrants caution around water, particularly at higher spring flows. The vault toilet and parking area are at the Johnsondale Bridge. Dogs are allowed on leash.
For information on veteran access to national forests and America the Beautiful passes, see our veteran benefits resource.
Getting There
From Kernville, drive north on Kernville Road approximately 22 miles through the Kern Canyon to Johnsondale. The trailhead parking area is at the Johnsondale Bridge crossing, signed on the left side of the road. The drive takes approximately 35 minutes from Kernville. Cell service is absent in the canyon; download offline maps before departing. The town of Kernville has fuel, food, and a Forest Service visitor center where staff can provide current conditions information.