One of the most ecologically diverse states in the country, California encompasses more than 20 U.S. National Parks, many of which have received international recognition for their natural magnificence.
Located in the Sierra Nevada and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Yosemite National Park is perhaps the most famous such park, due to its towering granite cliffs, beautiful lakes and streams, and impressive waterfalls. Another must-see Northern California destination with UNESCO World Heritage Site status, Redwood National Park boasts 2,000-year-old trees that can grow nearly 370 feet tall and 22 feet wide at the base. The park also contains 10 endangered or threatened species.
In Southern California, nature enthusiasts should check out Channel Islands National Park. Encompassing six islands that are home to more than 2,000 species of plants and animals, the park offers an abundance of diving, hiking, and kayaking opportunities. Southern California also includes the 800,000-acre Joshua Tree National Park, which consists of two separate desert ecosystems, the Colorado Desert and the Mojave Desert. Visitors should be sure to see the large trees after which the park was named.
Located in the Sierra Nevada and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Yosemite National Park is perhaps the most famous such park, due to its towering granite cliffs, beautiful lakes and streams, and impressive waterfalls. Another must-see Northern California destination with UNESCO World Heritage Site status, Redwood National Park boasts 2,000-year-old trees that can grow nearly 370 feet tall and 22 feet wide at the base. The park also contains 10 endangered or threatened species.
In Southern California, nature enthusiasts should check out Channel Islands National Park. Encompassing six islands that are home to more than 2,000 species of plants and animals, the park offers an abundance of diving, hiking, and kayaking opportunities. Southern California also includes the 800,000-acre Joshua Tree National Park, which consists of two separate desert ecosystems, the Colorado Desert and the Mojave Desert. Visitors should be sure to see the large trees after which the park was named.