Looking for the best state parks near San Francisco to visit? California has a very robust state parks system, with beautiful parks scattered all over the state, and you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to state parks around San Francisco. From mountains to coast and redwood forests to wildlife havens, there are many beautiful California state parks … Read More
The Mono Lake tufas have been fascinating visitors to the Eastern Sierra of California for many years. A part of Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve, the Mono Lake tufa towers are not only beautiful to view and photograph, they are also a habitat for birds and wildlife. Mono Lake is an old lake: over a million years old! Covering … Read More
Located along scenic California Highway 1, at the base of the Santa Lucia mountains, Garrapata State Park features spectacular scenery, a variety of hiking trails, and a sandy beach. If you enjoy the great outdoors, you will love Garrapata State Park, and all it offers. Acquired by the State of California in 1980, Garrapata State Park is one of a … Read More
Artist’s Palette is one of the most photographed spots in Death Valley National Park. The viewpoint is the major attraction on Artist’s Drive, arguably the most scenic drive in all of Death Valley. Featuring beautiful desert landscapes along a winding road, Artist Drive is definitely deserving of a top spot on your Death Valley National Park itinerary, especially if you … Read More
Looking for the best Death Valley hikes? Death Valley National Park is home to a variety of geological wonders, and hiking is one of the best ways to get up close to its epic landscapes. Death Valley hikes range in length and skill level, so whether you are looking for a scenic trail to a viewpoint or an easy walk … Read More
The smallest national park in California at 26,606 acres, Pinnacles National Park is worth visiting for its unique geological features, its excellent network of hiking trails, and the opportunities to see birds and wildlife, as well as wildflowers in season. Located in Central California, just around 120 miles south of San Francisco, Pinnacles National Park is one of the easiest … Read More
Looking for the best Joshua Tree hikes? Hiking is undoubtedly one of the most popular things to do in Joshua Tree National Park. The Southern California desert park is home to a wide variety of hiking trails, and hiking is a great way to explore its unique landscapes up close. Whether you are looking for a short and scenic family-friendly … Read More
The best Napa Valley wineries offer exceptional wine, plus something more: art or architecture or gardens or great views. Especially if it is your first time visiting, you will want to stop at some of the most iconic and beautiful Napa Valley wine estates, for an unforgettable wine country experience. Over the years, vintners from many parts of the world … Read More
California’s state parks are wonderful places to experience the Golden State’s scenic beauty and history. If you are planning a visit to the state, you’ll definitely want to look into weaving in a few of the best California state parks into your itinerary. Scattered all over the state, and running the gamut from coasts and forests to lakes, deserts, and … Read More
Napa Valley in November makes for a wonderful getaway. If you want to experience California’s premier wine country destination in a less crowded, more relaxed time, plan a November visit. With fall crush done and the weather still pleasant, Napa in November will charm you. We’ve visited Napa Valley many times, but mainly in the summer. Until a couple of … Read More