[catie’s corner] [pics] Jeeping Through The Sierra Nevada

Magical Mountains, Sequoia Trees and the Fallen Monarch

Deep in the heart of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California, you can find an adventurer’s wonderland. In the magical area of California where the Sequoia trees grow, you can hike through tall mountains and check out more monstrous trees. This area is home to the Grant tree, also known as the nation’s Christmas tree. It is also the world’s second largest tree by volume, massing over 46,000 cubic feet.

Also in this grove is what’s known as a Fallen Monarch. This fallen sequoia tree has served many uses over the years, including a shelter to Native Americans and even as a hotel, saloon and stable later on. It really goes to show how massive Sequoia trees can get.

Nested within the Sierra Nevada are 3 national parks – Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Yosemite. There are another 26 wilderness areas that you can explore and go backpacking. These areas are protected from logging to help preserve the area, so be sure to do your part and pack in and out. It’s super important to take care of these places so they’re around in all their glory for generations to come.

If you head into Kings Canyon National Park, there are a variety of trails you can take to hike through these scenic views. There are tons of trails that take you through the woods, meadows and there are even some waterfalls you can spot within the area. There are also lots of deers, bears and other wildlife in the area so keep an eye out. If you are traveling with food, be sure to use bear lockers. Stop at a visitor center or ask a ranger if you have any questions.

I had a lot of fun camping here. I was super impressed with how big the camping lots were. I enjoyed camping here over Sequoia National Park because it was lower in elevation so it was a bit warmer at night. There are tons of places to camp all over the Sierra Nevada, so take your pick! No matter where you camp, you can’t go wrong with a good campfire and some awesome company.

When you take your Jeep up through the mountains and especially into the trees, I highly recommend taking the top off your Jeep. And for that reason, the warmer months are best to visit, but they are also going to be the busiest. But like most of these amazing places, any time you visit you’re going to have a trip to remember.

Map of Area:

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