Central Interior California holds some of the state’s most well-known and well-hidden natural wonders. Travel from iconic Yosemite National Park to eerie Death Valley National Park to see some of the country’s most staggering landscapes. Visit long-abandoned gold-mining towns, enjoy luxury mountain resorts and explore Old West settlements.
Yosemite National Park is famed across the world for its ancient sequoia trees, towering granite formations and gushing waterfalls. Explore beautiful spots such as Nevada Fall and Vernal Fall. Stand atop Tunnel View for one of the park’s best vistas across Bridalveil Fall and the granite cliffs of El Capitan and Half Dome. From sub-alpine meadows threaded by streams at Tuolumne Meadows to the remote canyons and peaks of Hetchy Hetchy Reservoir to Yosemite Museum, captivating vistas and attractions await around every corner.
For a change of scene, venture amid the surreal and mesmerizing landscapes of Death Valley National Park. One of the country’s lowest and hottest places, this park is packed with fantastical geological formations and vast desert landscapes.
Glide down the slopes of the luxurious Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort, one of North America’s most acclaimed ski, snowboard and cross-country skiing destinations. In summer, the resort transforms into an adventure playground with hiking, biking, fishing and horseback-riding opportunities.
Gold Rush history abounds in Central Interior California. Dare to venture into the long-abandoned Bodie State Historic District near Mono Lake, where ghosts reportedly haunt the deserted mining town. Imagine you’re in the Old West as you walk up the historic main street of Mariposa, whose heritage is firmly attributed to California’s ambitious prospectors.
While good public transportation links exist between main towns and the national parks, you may want to rent a car to truly get the most out of a trip to Central Interior California. San Francisco or Sacramento make good jumping-off points. The seasons vary wildly here. Choose winter for snowy landscapes, skiing and roaring log fires or spring to fall for backcountry hiking and outdoor adventures.
