California: Redwood Trees, Coast and Cultural History

Redwood Trees and Trails

Mariposa Grove is the largest sequoia grove in Yosemite. Another destination for tree enthusiasts is the General Sherman Tree: measured by the wood volume of its trunk, it is the largest tree in the world. The trail there is 0.5 miles, or 0.8 kilometers, long. You can drive in Yosemite Valley year-round; check current conditions before you travel.

There are also different options for hiking. Pinnacles National Park has more than 30 miles of scenic trails; some trails may be temporarily closed. At Empire Mine State Historic Park, the Hardrock Trail is an easy, well-marked two-mile loop. Trail conditions may vary. A paved scenic road also runs for ten miles through Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, beneath tall, old coast redwoods. Check current road conditions before you drive.

Backpacking is possible in designated wilderness areas in Joshua Tree National Park. Permits and certain conditions may apply. This option differs from the trails and loops described above: it leads into designated wilderness areas and has different requirements. Check the applicable conditions before your trip.

Coast and Wildlife Watching

On the coast, Point Reyes offers seasonal opportunities for whale watching. Gray whales pass by from December through May and can often be spotted from the Lighthouse and Chimney Rock; sightings are not guaranteed. Point Reyes is also a cultural landscape that preserves stories and encounters among people from several cultures over thousands of years. Here, nature and cultural interests come together in a national seashore.

Up to 10,000 elephant seals return each year to the Natural Preserve at Año Nuevo State Park. They mate there, give birth to their pups and molt among the dunes and beaches. Opportunities for viewing are subject to seasonal regulations. Guided sea kayaking tours are offered and snorkeling gear is available for rent at Scorpion Anchorage on Santa Cruz Island. Check the operators’ current offerings before your trip. Ferry service to Channel Islands National Park departs from Ventura and Oxnard; check schedules and operators in advance.

Gold Rush History and Cultural Insights

Empire Mine State Historic Park is located at the site of one of California’s oldest, deepest and most productive gold mines. At Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, visitors can pan for gold in the American River; conditions for this activity may vary. Those interested in transportation history can find restored locomotives and railroad cars at the California State Railroad Museum. Exhibits also explore the contributions of Chinese railroad workers and the experiences of passengers in the early 20th century.

The history of the parks extends beyond individual places. California’s historic parks include educational programs that incorporate the stories and cultures of more than 150 distinct California Native tribes. There are also more than 20 Welcome Centers statewide to help with trip planning. Travelers can talk with local residents there about their plans; services may vary by center.

Choose the Focus of Your Trip

Whether you’re interested in giant trees, coastal wildlife, designated wilderness areas, or gold and railroad history, these experiences differ considerably in both subject and type of activity. Start your hotel search in the part of California whose attractions and activities are central to your trip.

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