Whether you’re an outdoorsy type or you just love the scenery, California has some incredible places to visit. From the cliffs and canyons of the Sequoia National Park to the beach towns of Ventura and Los Angeles, you can find something to appeal to your sense of adventure.
Sequoia National Park
Located in California, Sequoia National Park is one of the most scenic places to visit in the United States. There are many hiking trails in the park that allow visitors to explore the forest and meadows. In addition, the park offers opportunities for cross-country skiing, sledding, and snowshoeing. The park is open throughout the year, but is less visited in the winter.
The park is known for its massive sequoias and Mount Whitney, the tallest mountain in the lower 48 states. The park is also home to the General Sherman Tree, the largest living tree on the planet. The tree is 2,700 years old and taller than the Statue of Liberty in New York City.
The park is also home to Crystal Cave, which is located on Generals Highway. This small cave is carved from the rock and is cool and moist. To get to the cave, visitors should walk about a half mile from the park entrance. The park also offers tours of the cave that run from May through November.
Fern Canyon
Located in the Humboldt County, Fern Canyon has been a favored destination for many. Ferns and water are the hallmark of this canyon, which is surrounded by lush green flora.
The best time to visit Fern Canyon is during the warmer months, when the ferns are at their best. In winter, the water level in the creek may be too low for safe walking. If you’re unsure, check the road conditions before you visit.
Fern Canyon was the backdrop for Steven Spielberg’s “Jurassic Park: The Lost World” film. The canyon walls are a combination of winding curves and 50-foot vertical walls. Ferns cling to the cliffs in abundance, and seven different species of ferns are spotted.
Fern Canyon has been recognized as a World Heritage Site. The canyon is home to a clear, fast-moving stream, which cascades over multi-colored rocks. It’s also home to a rare Roosevelt elk.
Thousand Island Lake
Located in the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains, Thousand Island Lake is an iconic lake in California. It is part of the Ansel Adams Wilderness in eastern Madera County, CA. The lake is an icon of the Eastern Sierra and has a lot to offer backpackers. The lake is surrounded by the majestic Banner Peak, which towers over a tree-covered island in the lake.
The Pacific Crest Trail passes by Thousand Island Lake, but it is not the trail’s only connection to the lake. The John Muir Trail also passes by the lake. However, the most scenic route is by the Pacific Crest Trail.
The John Muir Trail passes by the lake, but the trail is also used to form a loop. The loop is composed of several lakes and includes sections of the John Muir Trail. Several lakes in the area are good places to take a break.
Ventura Pier
Located along the beautiful coastline of California, the Ventura Pier has been in operation for over a century. As a landmark, it has been restored many times and has become a popular tourist destination. The Pier is a great place to spend a day walking, picnicking and enjoying a fresh fish meal.
The Pier has a great view of the Santa Barbara Channel and the Channel Islands. It is also a popular fishing spot for locals and visitors alike. The Pier has a full-service seafood restaurant. It is also home to a brewery. There are restrooms and benches.
In addition to the pier, visitors can also visit the Ventura Harbor Village. The Harbor Village includes boutiques, restaurants, galleries, and a comedy club. There is also a promenade that runs along the state beach.
Hearst Castle
Located halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, Hearst Castle is a popular tourist attraction. The castle was built in the early twentieth century by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. Hearst bought numerous antiques, sculptures, and art from Europe.
The castle was designed to accommodate wealthy visitors. Visitors arrived by train and private plane. They stayed in guest houses, played tennis, and swam in the “most sumptuous swimming pool in the world”.
The castle is open daily year-round. Tours last about 60 to 75 minutes. The main house includes 115 rooms. A tour is recommended for first-time visitors.
Visitors can purchase tickets online up to 60 days in advance. Tours begin at the designated time printed on the ticket. Children must be supervised while on the tour. There are also guided school tours.
