Yosemite. One word, four syllables. Not a lot in the way of descriptions, but with Yosemite, it’sall you need. That one word conjures up cloud-crowned heights with crested waterfalls tumbling over the lips of granite monoliths; of deep valleys with quiet streams following their own path through western pines; of meadows with horizonic views. It is a word of Iconic Grandeur.
Getting off the grid in California can be hard to do, but not if you know where to look. Let us help you discover Yolo County in California’s Central Valley. Here, small town culture hemmed in by beautiful rolling hills and countryside connotes a slower pace of life, perfect for first-time visitors and return travelers alike. Take your time sipping, tasting, and pedaling your way through Yolo County. You’ll be amazed at how much this part of the Golden State has to offer!
Not sure where to begin your next California road trip? Let us help! Just a few hours from the north entrance of Yosemite National Park is a lively city known as Stockton. Settled between the San Francisco Bay Area and the Sierra Nevada mountains, Stockton is ideal for a traveler looking to get a healthy mix of culture, food, and outdoor adventure. Plan your trip in advance—check out this sample itinerary!
Gold Country, California is one of our favorite off-the-beaten-path destinations for those who want to see a different side of the Golden State. Home of the original gold rush that forever changed a nation, this region is within striking distance of both Lake Tahoe and Sacramento, making it an achievable and creative destination for those who love history, outdoor adventure, farm-to-table food, and know how to enjoy a booming wine and beer scene.
Gold and granite have been enticing visitors to central California since the mid-1800’s. All around Tuolumne County there are nods to the region’s roots, from Gold Rush era experiences to fantastic museums that educate visitors on the state’s history. Meanwhile, granite continues to beckon travelers from around the world to the same area. Tourists still flock to the Yosemite area to witness the breathtaking domes, sheer walls that reach sky-high, and waterfalls that drop to the valley floors. The combination of granite and gold make Tuolumne County one of the most interesting places to visit.
“Hi, do you have the ‘Sandy the Squirrel’ card?” I asked, standing in the Yosemite National Park Visitor’s Center. See, I was on a mission. Essentially a scavenger hunt leading through Yosemite National Park and beyond. By collecting two or more trading cards, I could win a serious vacation package to return to some of the most amazing country in the USA! What I didn’t know was that this “highway” of sorts would bring me to some incredible places while visiting Yosemite.
Deciding on experiences in some of California’s most sought after country was a real challenge! Amber and I set parameters though, and stuck with them. We needed a mix of scenery, adventure, adrenaline, and relaxation for our California road trip–and we found it, all of it! From sunup to sundown, we explored California’s High Sierra, stretching from Yosemite National Park to Lake Tahoe. Here’s what we were able to experience and loved!
I had no trouble rolling into South Lake Tahoe, California and adapting to the city’s mellow pace. From the moment the valet whisked my car away at the Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel, I was in walking distance to the lake, hiking, live music, dining, and great entertainment.
California is a simply astounding place. It stretches for 900 miles along the west coast of the United States and encompasses world-famous gems such as Yosemite National Park, the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, and many more. But along with such well known destinations come tons of tourists. Escape the crowds with a road trip to the Shasta Cascade region of UpState California. Here, there are just as many outdoor adventures to experience with a fraction of the traffic!
Rock climbing is both an exciting and risky adventure. But when you reach the pinnacle of your journey, and are surrounded by unparalleled views of your surroundings, you’ll see it’s worth any challenges you face on your way! In order to get there, though, you’ll need to follow some basic rock climbing guidelines. This set of Zion National Park climbing guidelines will give you an idea of what to expect.