Calaveras Big Trees State Park

The 7 Best State Parks in California

"Nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills, this park preserves two groves of giant sequoias—among the largest trees on Earth—and offers looped trails such as the North Grove and South Grove for close-up views. The site recalls early logging history with the famed 'Discovery Tree,' felled in 1853 in an effort that reportedly took five men 22 days. In addition to sequoia viewing, visitors with a fishing license can fish the Stanislaus River and Beaver Creek, and wildlife sightings may include flying squirrels, foxes, and dark-eyed juncos." - Evie Carrick Evie Carrick Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines