Kings Canyon National Park protects a wonderland of giant trees, plus another section of impressive deep canyons, and finished off with some of the highest peaks in the Lower 48. Kings Canyon is only one the outstanding close-knit cluster of national parks, including a national forest, wilderness land and a national monument as well. The adjacent Sequoia National Park became the second national park in the United States, introducing Americans in 1890 to a new idea of preservation and park recreation.
   Separated by the Sequoia National Forest, Kings Canyon Park is divided into two sections, with the Grants Grove to the west and Kings Canyon eastward. Grants Grove, also created in 1908 to protect some of the world's largest trees, was combined with Kings Canyon in 1948.
   The deepest canyon in the United States, cut by powerful forces of the South Fork Kings River, is filled with a variety of scenic wonders. Park visitors may experience side canyon waterfalls and creeks, river cascades, Boyden Cavern, and majestic mountain peaks on each side of the river. This autumn scene shows a tame Kings River when small tributaries slow to a trickle. One exception, the Roaring River continues to put on a good showing, powering Roaring River Falls in a way that lives up to its name.

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