If you're planning a holiday to California, its national parks are the perfect thing to add to your itinerary. An amazing way to see some of the state's stunning landscapes, they are also known for the fantastic activities they offer, so there is something for everyone. To find out all about the best destinations to include on your trip, read on.
The best-known reserve in California is Yosemite National Park, a colossal 1,170 square mile haven of glorious mountain landscapes and amazing wildlife. The unforgettable views here were formed over millions of years by glacial activity, and today you can see a wonderful mixture of waterfalls, huge monoliths and charming lakes. In the Yosemite Valley alone there are a high number of famous attractions, including Half Dome.
A sheer cliff of Plutonic granite, Half Dome is generally acknowledged to be the park's most famous natural wonder. El Capitan, meanwhile, is another well-known name. This vast granite monolith is something of a favourite among climbers seeking a challenge, but it is a great landmark simply to go and see. If you are interested in climbing, however, there is plenty of scope to try it in the park - including guided climbs and lessons.
There are also some stunning waterfalls to seek out on your travels. Among them is Yosemite Falls, which is one of the five highest in the world. Ribbon Fall, meanwhile, is the tallest single fall in North America; both attractions can be found in Yosemite Valley. There is also a lot of wildlife to look out for, including bears, golden eagles, marmots and bighorn sheep, making it a great place for animal lovers too.
Of course, as well as the fantastic possibilities for sightseeing, the park is an amazing destination for a host of outdoor adventures. Horse riding, rafting, cycling and hiking are just a few of the options available to you, so it is worth doing a little research before you travel and deciding which most appeals to you. Another thing to consider is the Tioga Pass, which runs from one side of the park to the other. This is a fantastic choice for anyone planning a road trip, since it covers some of the area's most stunning scenery. However, you should be aware that, due to snowfall, it is typically only open between late May and mid-October.
If you are planning something of a tour of the local area, another possible place to visit is Mammoth Lakes, a region located close to the park. This fantastic area is home to more than 100 lakes and streams, and is renowned for its spectacular scenery - but that's not all. Indeed, it is among the world's largest ski resorts and has plenty of options for other outdoor activities, including cycling and hiking along wilderness trails.
The next two top national parks are often treated as a single reserve, since they are situated side by side. The Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are located in the Sierra Nevada mountains and are best known for their stunning sequoia trees, great examples of which you can see in both sites.
Indeed, pay a visit to Kings Canyon National Park and you can explore the awe-inspiring Redwood Canyon Grove. This 4,500-acre site is the world's largest grove of sequoias, and it really does have to be seen to be believed. The tallest of the species, however, is situated in Sequoia National Park in the aptly named Giant Forest. Dubbed General Sherman, the tree is approximately 85 m tall and, in terms of volume, is the largest tree in the world. After visiting it, you can head to the Giant Forest Museum to learn more about sequoias in general.
Also in Sequoia National Park is Crystal Cave, which is well worth visiting if you are travelling during its open season (generally between mid-May and October). Running underneath the reserve, this vast cave is home to some fascinating rock formations, which you can see with a guided tour. These are very popular, so it is a good idea to book your place first thing in the morning to avoid disappointment.
As with Yosemite National Park, there are lots of activities you can try in these two reserves. If you're keen to discover the landscape, hiking is one of the best options, and you can get to grips with the various routes with the maps available at each visitors centre. On the whole, trails near to and around Grant Grove Village tend to be gentle and simple to tackle, while Cedar Grove routes are challenging, spectacular and best suited to experienced hikers.
Planning a holiday to California? Come to Bon Voyage and discover a host of fantastic itineraries and ideas for making your trip unforgettable.
ليست هناك تعليقات:
إرسال تعليق