I’ve told you that I love visiting places with trees, but what exactly does that mean? Usually I mean typical forest trees-pine, redwood, sequoias. But sometimes I like seeing oak trees as well since that is close to my home town.
Kings Canyon National Park, CA
My overall impression: A beautiful and easy hike in the Sequoia national forest. However, this route was definitely more difficult to find. There was hardly any signage and to purchase a map cost more than entering the park itself for a day hike. The weather was nice during the summer and the smell of redwoods was refreshing. Plus, I got to see the National Christmas Tree!
Pacific Dogwoods near Lake Arrowhead, CA
I visited this pretty trail during a foggy day in December. It was a perfect path for my family and I to take and very nice, despite the fog. Trying to find it was easy and we didn’t have to pay much beyond a parking pass.
La Purisima Mission, CA
This wasn’t a forest per say, but it was a garden next to the mission. Although a bit warm, it was cool sitting in the shade during the summer. It was also extremely peaceful to sit in the garden, so I loved it.
Mercer Caverns + Stanislaus National Forest, CA
This area was very hot during the summer, but it got cool during the night. When I explored the Mercer Caverns with my husband, it was much cooler and very cool. I also liked hiking around the forest, but didn’t get that many pictures beyond Mark Twain’s Cabin. It was nice, but I don’t think I will be returning.
Wind Wolves Preserve, CA
I think Wind Wolves Preserve looks beautiful even if it is very hot! My husband and I enjoyed the night hike and want to return for the wildflower viewing in the spring. They are very particular about their preservation of wildlife, so be careful if you drive out there!
Big Bear Lake, CA
Just past Lake Arrowhead is this beautiful lake in Southern California. Even though my husband and I spent most of our time in the city, we eventually made it out to the forest area and hiked. That was a lot nicer than the busy city. However, the weather was nice and it was still a small town-ish feel.
Santa Cruz, CA
I visited this beautiful area to help her fiance at the time surprise her. It was gorgeous, but because I was not in my own car, I wasn’t able to explore much. This area is one that I would like to revisit someday.
Moro Rock, CA (Sequoia National Forest)
The trail to this vista is HARD. I was much younger when I took this hike and it still was difficult. The view from the top was definitely worth it, but I am not going to try this one again until I’m in better shape. Also, this forest could get pretty hot, but not as bad as Stanislaus National Forest during the summer.