The Kings River runs along the bottom of Kings Canyon. Much of it alongside a two-lane paved road down to the bottom-most part of the canyon at Cedar Grove. With so many places to find a place to park and explore. Or to just find a road to turn off and set out in a different direction. Even better, on foot with a full heart and camera in hand.
A grand sentinel that soars above the Kings River in Kings Canyon National Park. The meadows, the river, the forest, and the surrounding upper reaches make for the spiritual value of the wilderness here.
Sweeping below is the ever powerful Kings River. From upon the Zumwalt bridge we are at a pause to feel the spray of the river and to sense its presence before us. The Kings River is a mighty river. It’s a river of life.
At a place of final destination, the culmination of winter’s snowmelt drains into the Kings River within Kings Canyon National Park. Traveling for miles upon miles the water’s force and movement leaves one to appreciate the gravity and the gradual carving of rock and earth.
Falls that roar and begin their descent from high above can captivate the imagination. The force of the river shapes hardened surfaces and cleanses both body and soul. Among rivers throughout the Sierra, it is often that we only see a small segment of a rushing cascade to invite further exploration.
From our time on the River Trail in Kings Canyon yesterday, we set out to see what the day would bring. We spent this time together in an effort to learn and explore. A time to develop our relationship together and live within the best of wilderness beauty.
Very few people on the trail beyond about half a mile. The farther we got from the road and suspension bridge the more it cleared out of visitors. Along the trail for but just a couple of miles we were lost to ourselves, inspired and alive together. Hoping to remember these times together we are in full acceptance of one another and deeply moved by what was before us. In all honesty, it is all too much. We are merely drinking the river that gives its life. By its reflection, its spray, and waves crashing onto the shore, we only able to grasp so much of what it is and what it meant. For me a spiritual place, for Ryan an incredibly challenging area of mystery and wonder.
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