California between Giant Sequoias, Coast and Culture

Giant Trees and Striking Landscapes

The Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is the largest sequoia grove in Yosemite and is home to more than 500 mature giant sequoias. The General Sherman Tree is considered the largest tree in the world because of the volume of wood in its trunk. The trail to this tree is 0.5 miles or 0.8 kilometers long.

Trails, Wilderness and Wildlife Watching

Pinnacles National Park offers more than 30 miles of scenic trails. Joshua Tree National Park also offers opportunities for backpacking in designated wilderness areas.

The sea and its wildlife form a second focus. Up to 10,000 elephant seals return each year to the Natural Preserve of Año Nuevo State Park to mate, give birth to their young and molt. They stay among the scenic dunes and beaches. Guided sea-kayaking tours and snorkel gear rentals are available at Scorpion Anchorage on Santa Cruz Island.

Point Reyes National Seashore preserves stories and encounters of people from several cultures spanning thousands of years.

History, Gold and Cultural Insights

At Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, visitors can search for gold in the American River. Empire Mine State Historic Park is located at the site of one of California’s oldest, deepest and most productive gold mines.

California’s state historic parks incorporate the stories and culture of more than 150 distinct California Indigenous tribes into their educational programs. In addition, the California State Railroad Museum displays restored locomotives and railroad cars. The exhibitions also cover the contributions of Chinese railroad workers and the experiences of passengers in the early 20th century.

Getting There and Finding Your Bearings

Yosemite Valley is accessible by car year-round. The Channel Islands National Park is served by ferry from Ventura and Oxnard.

A paved scenic road runs for 10 miles through Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. It passes beneath tall old-growth coast redwoods.

California has more than 20 Welcome Centers, where travelers can discuss their trip planning with locals.

For regional orientation, you can also consider San Bernardino, Kern, Mono, El Dorado, Placer, Nevada, Fresno and Alpine County.

FAQ

What does the Hardrock Trail offer?

The Hardrock Trail in Empire Mine State Historic Park is an easy, well-marked two-mile loop trail.

What is part of California Wine Month?

California Wine Month coincides with the grape harvest. The program includes special tastings, festivals, concerts, tours, as well as wine-paired meals with top chefs and winemakers.

For the higher-level travel overview: USA.