Getting the Big Picture at Calaveras Big Trees
If California knows how to do something well, it is how to go big. Big state, big deficit, (oh wait, did I say that out loud?) and really big trees. You may say, “don’t most trees look big?” But we are talking Jack-and-the-beanstalk-could-have-lived-here type of big. If anything could touch the sky, it would be these redwoods.
Visiting Calaveras Big Trees was a day trip during our trek through California’s Gold Country. I do wish we could have stayed longer, you could easily fill a few days with the hiking and exploring that is available. Located between Lake Tahoe and Yosemite, two of California’s tourist hot spots, Stanislaus National Forest offers a less crowded and equally unique experience for families.
photo credit: californiawinehiker.com
Open year-round, 129 campsites are available – some by reservation and some for walk-in only. If you prefer less rustic accommodations, check out the nearby town of Arnold. There are five hiking trails to choose from that accommodate hikers of all levels. One of the most popular is the North Grove loop. It is both flat and shaded. Totaling 1.5 miles, it leads you through a tree with a hole in the center that you can walk through and also passes a large stump you can walk across (including a small staircase you need to reach the stump). How big are these trees really? The largest redwood, located in the south grove, measures 25 feet in diameter even at six feet above ground! A typical redwood here is as tall as the Statue of Liberty, weighs over 4,000 lbs., and one tree could be used to build 40 five-room homes. Its really hard to convey (let alone photograph) the enormousness of something that has been living there for centuries.
After our hike we also spent a lot of time in the Visitor’s Center at the North Grove. As far as visitor’s centers go, and we’ve been to many, this ranks among the best. There are many things to touch, try, and take home which add to the experience of exploring a state park. Other attractions in the Park include the Stanislaus River, Beaver Creek, the Lava Bluff Trail and Bradley Trail. Activities include (Winter) cross-country skiing, (Summer) evening ranger talks, numerous interpretive programs, environmental educational programs, junior ranger programs, hiking, mountain biking, bird watching and activities for school children.
A special “Family Day” is scheduled for August 21, 2010. From 10am – 4pm there will be rangers with live birds of prey, wagon rides, reptiles, Miwok demonstrations, nature crafts and more. You can also check out other Calaveras events taking place nearby.
Because of budget cuts, nearly 150 state parks have either been shut down part-time or have suffered deep service reductions. If you are thinking of planning an economical vacation in California this summer that will still leave everyone talking for years to come, take advantage of the beautiful state parks now. You can’t find places like this anywhere else!
For more on national parks visit Trekaroo’s spotlight Thursday
Oh yes. They are breathtaking. And sort of something you have to see in person. Pictures don’t do the enormity justice (although I really love your first photo, Lora.)
My family was big on road trips when I grew up and I have SO many fond memories of visiting the state parks – can’t wait to let my kiddos experience them, too.
I love Redwoods, Lora. They’re just so majestic. Can’t wait to get back to the “big trees” in Yosemite next month. Great post!
Wow. Great article Lora. That is one stand of redwoods I haven’t visited yet. You would think that since I lived fairly close by I would have. I certainly feel like I need to go see them now! Thank you for playing along with Spotlight Thursday. We hope to see you again next week!
@Amy: Yes, I think state parks are definately underutilized as vacation spots. There is more to do than you think.
@Debi: I had told my kids that day that we would see a tree you could drive through, forgetting that’s in Yosemite. So my promise will be delivered quite late, but looking forward to it.
@Sharlene: Its a small state park (comparatively) but there’s a lot to do around there too. Might make the trek from so cal worth it.