Written by: Tarah Mills
More than 39 million people call California home, and although tourists flock there throughout the year, you can still get away from it all in The Golden State. In fact, California has some amazing natural experiences that you can enjoy.
If heading to California for some quality time in nature sounds great to you check out these suggestions. Consider heading to these five natural experiences hidden in Busy California.
1. Lake Tahoe
Spanning an area of more than 191 square miles at the California and Nevada border, you have all kinds of activities you can enjoy at Lake Tahoe. Rent a boat or grab a charter and be sure that you soak in as much of the lake as possible. You have plenty of great fishing you can enjoy or you can just kick back and watch the day unfold.
You also have several charming communities nearby. So even if you decide to camp, you have plenty of local retailers where you can grab your supplies. All you have to do is show up. If camping isn’t your thing, then you have numerous lodging accommodations and restaurants at your convenience.
2. Redwood National Park
You have national and state parks you can enjoy throughout California, and you should try to visit the most coveted outdoor spots. One of those parks you should try to visit one day is Redwood National Park. The park contains the well-known California redwood trees, some of which you will find to be insanely huge. Did you know these trees can grow well over 200 feet tall? And did you know that the width of the trees can span anywhere between 10 and 20 feet?
Grab your vehicle or rent a car and drive in from San Francisco or Portland, Oregon. Once you arrive, you will want to get up close to the trees as soon as possible. You can either hike on your own via well-maintained trails, or you can enjoy an organized tour of the treasured park.
3. Big Sur
If you are looking for a magical experience, you should consider Big Sur. When you head to Big Sur, you get to take in all of the natural experiences resulting from the unique way that the Santa Lucia Mountains immediately rise from the waters of the Pacific Ocean.
You can sit back on mountain ledges and literally look over to witness blue whales and elephant seals splashing and swimming. And up in the mountains where you sit, you can watch peregrine falcons take off for or return from a flight. You also have beautiful vegetation like calla lilies, lavender, and various pine species that will stir your senses and stir your soul.
4. Yosemite National Park
Among the amazing parks in California that you can enjoy is Yosemite National Park. This park spans an area of more 1,100 square miles, and you will not be short on things you can enjoy. Set within the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the park is jampacked with outdoor activities you can enjoy.
You also have plenty of opportunities to zen out and zone out. You can experience some amazing sunrises and sunsets if camping or visiting for just the day. Whether you want recreation or you just want to relax, you really should seize an opportunity to visit Yosemite.
5. The Kern River
You have all kinds of adventures you can enjoy on California’s Kern River and in the surrounding Sequoia National Forest. And if you are not an outdoor enthusiast, you should not worry. You can still visit the area and soak up plenty of good times, and that includes just chilling and taking in the scenery.
But if you do want to be active, you can schedule several activities to enjoy on or near the Kern River. Rafting, kayaking, rock climbing, tubing, and paddleboarding are just a few of the options you can enjoy.
It doesn’t matter your budget or what type of experiences you are seeking, you have some amazing options throughout California. Any of the destinations mentioned above are sure to be a hit with you. And regardless if you want to relax or be active, your needs will be met.
