As a resident of northern California, I am often asked if I think it is fun to take road trips in Northern California. It is, in fact, one of the best ways to enjoy the wonders of the California desert in all seasons. There are many reasons why road trips in Northern California are so much fun. First of all, you can travel at your own pace. No one is stopping you and forcing you to squeeze into a fast one!
Another reason why road trips near: Yosemite should be on the top of your “to-do” list is the wildlife you will see. Traveling through Yosemite National Park is truly an experience of a lifetime. In my opinion, there is nothing quite like hiking along the rim of a mighty river. As you travel up this rim, you will see enormous amounts of wildlife. Couples will enjoy spotting the variety of birds, as well as, other wildlife that inhabit these high, dry areas. Or maybe you want to spot some or all of the spectacular redwood trees.
When it comes to experiencing the beauty of Northern California: traveling by road is definitely the way to go. The many highways that traverse Yosemite National Park give you plenty of road trips near Yosemite to choose from. Highway 140 makes for a great scenic drive, passing through Oak Creek Valley where you can park and take in the beautiful scene of waterfalls. Hiking this portion of the road trips near Yosemite will give you a chance to view some of the more spectacular scenery. Just make sure to stop and take in some wildlife, or stop and look at some of the most colorful flower formations. Be sure to take a picture of this amazing scene!
One of the most popular road trips near Yosemite: definitely among couples, is to take a cruise on the mighty San Francisco Bay. Even though you will be driving by yourself and possibly alone, you will still have many amenities along the route. Once you get near the park, you can stop by the Fisherman’s Wharf Visitor Center to find out about the various historical sites and take a look at some of the fabulous views from the water. This is also a good place to get souvenirs such as key chains and postcards. When you decide where you would like to travel on your trip, you have plenty of other locations to choose from, including Mount Hood, Washington pass, and Sequoia/Kings Canyon.
Your San Francisco road trips near Yosemite should definitely include stops in Mount Hood: where you can take a hiking adventure into the woods. The trail begins with a hike up to the parking lot, which offers breathtaking views of the forest below you. You will then head into the forest on foot, following a path lined with birch, oak, and maple trees. Eventually you will come to a grove of large, old-growth trees, where you will be able to camp and enjoy the night without interference from human beings.
If you would like to stay closer to home: you can make your way into Pacific Grove. Here, you can stop by the Visitor’s Center for great photos, or explore the local shops. It is close to the beach, so you can take a walking trip to the Ocean Beach Park, which offers many facilities for the kids. There are also playgrounds, swimming pools, and nature trails in close proximity to the area.
You can also go horseback riding or participate in a local farmer’s markets to support local farmers.
