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Backpack Sequoia & Kings Canyon
2023 Permit rolling Lo�ery Open
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Sequoia and Kings Canyon Na�onal Park – The 2023 backpacking season for Sequoia and Kings Canyon Na�onal Park is upon us. Recrea�on.gov has officially begun accep�ng trip i�neraries for backpackers looking to travel in the early season in one of the largest wilderness areas in North America. Permits for Sequoia and Kings Canyon can be reserved through a lo�ery system 6 month plus one week in advance. So at this �me we are looking at May 2023 Backpacking opportuni�es.
The parks overlie an extraordinary con�nuum of ecosystems arrayed along the greatest ver�cal relief (1,370 to 14,505 feet in eleva�on) of any protected area in the lower 48 states. Stunning glacial canyons, lake basins, lush meadows, and sheer granite peaks–hallmarks of the most rugged por�on of the High Sierra–form the core of the largest expanse of con�guous wilderness in California. Well-known des�na�ons such as Mount Whitney and popular i�neraries such as the John Muir Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, High Sierra Trail, and Rae Lakes Loop are heavily traveled and there is high demand for limited entry. The lake basins near Lodgepole and Mineral King are busy on weekends but can be quiet mid-week. Lesserknown des�na�ons such as the Monarch Divide, Roaring River country, eastern slopes of the Great Western Divide, and the Hocke� Plateau can offer outstanding opportuni�es for solitude throughout the year.
Do you need a permit to backpack in Kings Canyon?
Wilderness permits must be purchased for all overnight camping outside designated campgrounds within Sequoia and King Canyon parks. Backcountry camping fees start from May through Sept. 15. Permission is not necessary on day hikes.
The Sequoia and Kings Canyon reserva�on is for a quota season permit for overnight travel of wilderness and backcountry areas (SEKI). Permits issued by SEKI are valid for con�nuous wilderness and backcountry travel in the Sequoia, Sierra, and Inyo Na�onal Forests (NF) and Yosemite Na�onal Park, subject to those agencies’ condi�ons.
To enter SEKI from the Jennie Lake Wilderness obtain a permit for the JO Pass, Belle Canyon, or Sugarloaf entry points; to enter from the Deer Cove area of the Monarch Wilderness , obtain a SEKI permit for the Lewis Creek entry point.
To enter SEKI from the Inyo NF , Sierra NF , Golden Trout por�on of the Sequoia NF , or Yosemite NP obtain permits from those agencies; those permits are valid for con�nuous travel in SEKI.
A few Epic Backpacking routes to Consider when planning for Sequoia
Alta Peak to Alta Meadow
Why go: Take a short hike to the highest point of Sierra Nevada and camp on the lush alpine meadow with abundant wildflowers with stunning views of the Grand Western Divide. Alta Peak was my first significant summit – the mountain where I became a keen outdoors person. Situated at an 11207-foot eleva�on, the mountain is low enough to reach most hikers and high enough to pose challenges. The views from Pea Lake, Mount Silliman, and the Western Divide are simply amazing. Place the car in Wolverton, then follow the lake route. Around two miles in you arrive at the sign posted intersec�on and proceed toward Alta Peak.
What are your best reasons for going? The 2-day low eleva�on trekking at Sequoia Na�onal Park offers camping in the groves of enormous Sequoia trees. It is perfect for those early seasons when the mountains are s�ll covered, but the excitement is high. The Middle Fork Trail is ideal for hiking due to the chilly weather in the spring and autumn. Embrace the dirt road that’s nearly 1.3 miles up the main Sequoia Highway and park at the end. Put excess snacks inside your car bag and wear shoes. Panther Creek Falls, fishing in the Middle Fork of the Kaweah River for those who don’t mind bush-whacking, wildflowers in the spring, views up the river drainage to the Great Western Divide, access to Redwood Meadow (one of the most remote sequoia groves in the park).
Rae Lakes Loop
This 4-5 day loop takes you through mountains and valleys to enjoy breathtaking views on this spectacular hike. Rae Lake Loop has the toughest permit-obtaining process in Sequoia & Kings Na�onal Park. What’s wrong with that? Almost all the trails are filled with breathtaking Sierra landscapes. This trail offers everything from the gnarred wood foxtails to the massive granite peak and the beau�ful alpine lakes filled with fresh snow. Start your walk at the Road end and go clockwise. The Rae Lakes Loop is one of the most popular hikes in Sequoia and Kings Canyon, if not in the en�re Sierra. The loop is 41.4 miles long, and climbs from 5035ʹ (1535m) at the trailhead to 11,978ʹ (3651m) at Glen Pass. It is most o�en accessed via the Wood’s Creek trailhead (clockwise) or the Bubb’s Creek trailhead (counter clockwise). High water at stream crossings can be a problem in May and early June. Glen Pass may be impassable to hikers un�l mid-late July and even later for stock. Because this is such a popular hike, there are certain restric�ons along this trail:
High Sierra Trail – Crescent Meadow to Whitney Portal
Why it’s worth going: Cross Sierra Nevada, and then triumph over Mt. Whitney. It’s absolutely breathtaking. It is easily one of the best trails the Sierra offers, an alpine romp over high mountain passes, through verdant meadows, past a remote hot spring, and up to the summit of Mt. Whitney, the highest point in the Con�nental Divide. This 7-
day trip is one of the most extensive eleva�on adventures available in the United States. early season may be a bit of a challenge and the permit process is a bit more complicated. Looking for a great review of this en�re route, check out the Modern Hiker Review
Hamilton Lake
Why should we go on these magical two-night walks into the center of the Western Divide? Hamilton Lake has a reputa�on for being a stunning sapphire gem that has a high eleva�on barrier that keeps many hikers out. The trek itself is full of true Sierra beauty in all of its forms. Massive waterfalls, rushing streams, colossal cliff faces, and old-growth forests greet you along the 15-mile journey as you climb. There is an incredibly tough road to go on, but trust me, it works out perfectly. Taking a hike from Crescent Meadow to the high Sierra trail follows its wellmarked up and it’s well-marked out of Bearpaw Meadow. From Bear paw meadow the hike is nothing short of exhaus�ng as it follows a set of steep switchbacks up to the top of the great western divide. For more detailed trip take a look at Outdoor Project review
Don’t forget the Bear Canister
The bear-resistant container must remain on the trail during the day unless the bear can be seen overnight and should be used anywhere else throughout Sequoia Na�onal Park. Bear cans can be bought at most visitor centers at the �me of the permit applica�on ($5 per night and $2.2 per extra night). The fee is $5. These heavy containers are cumbersome and seem like a nuisance, and they keep bears from ea�ng human food. If a bear gets used to the high-calorie food we consume every day, it can quickly become an issue bear. The new Bear canisters from bear vault allow for customizing your trips safely.
Notable changes of the Recrea�on.gov transi�on
No mail, email, or fax reserva�on requests will be accepted.
The reserva�on window can be as early as 6 months in advance to one week prior to your desired start date.
Real-�me reserva�on availability can be checked on Recrea�on.gov. An instant reserva�on confirma�on will be emailed to you.
You can list up to 3 alternate trip leaders.
There’s a limit of six ac�ve permits at any given �me.
The reserva�on fee base price has increased from $10 to $15, but the per-person fee will stay at $5.
Integrated payment op�ons allow the ability to pay entry fees and/or make campground reserva�ons at the same �me you make a permit reserva�on. Please look for more informa�on on the recrea�on.gov website.
Refunds for cancella�ons and party size reduc�ons (>1 week).
Ability to modify your exit date and i�nerary loca�ons through Recrea�on.gov.
Email communica�ons about trail closures, advisories and important informa�on through Recrea�on.gov.
Sierra snow-covered peaks in winter, gushing waterfalls in spring, wildflower meadows and glistening lakes in summer, vibrant colors in fall cons�tute a land of drama�c and wild beauty.
Dont miss these Sierra favorites.
Alabama Hills: Known for amazing rock forma�ons and the beau�ful Mobius Arch framing Mt. Whitney, these hills in Inyo County are perfect for outdoor adventure. Calaveras Big Trees State Park: The groves of towering giant sequoias in Calaveras County are ideal for walking, hiking or camping Lone Pine: Countless Westerns were filmed in this quaint Eastern Sierra town, and visitors can s�ll explore old Hollywood sets while driving Movie Road Loop Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve: This terminal lake is sal�er than the sea and is known for the otherworldly tufa spires rising out of the water and beckoning photographer’s around the world Mt. Whitney: Both the highest point in California and the tallest summit in the con�guous United States, this mountain soars 14,505 feet and ideal for hiking, climbing and mountaineering
View from the top of Mt. Conness at the border of Yosemite Na�onal Park
-Photo by
Mike Toffey
Snowshoe Winnemucca Lake to Round Top Lake in Mokelumne Wilderness
By Craig Cooper
Living in or near the Sierra, we are fortunate to have many incredible areas to explore during the cold, winter months. Although downhill skiing takes up a good por�on of my winter recrea�on, I always try to get out on my snowshoes and explore on foot as o�en as I can. Winnemucca Lake and Round Top Lake have both quickly become two of my favorite areas to enjoy, located in the expansive Mokelumne Wilderness. The area is quite popular in the summer and spring months, lush with wildflowers and sprawling trails, but winter can be just as rewarding for those willing to trudge through the snow for some exhilara�ng winter recrea�on.
The trail is 7 miles round trip to comple�on, with an overall eleva�on gain of approximately 1,140 feet. The trailhead begins above 8,000 feet eleva�on, ensuring typically good snow coverage during the winter months, even on less-than-average snowpack seasons for the Sierra. The area is an ideal loca�on for not only snowshoeing but for cross-country skiing as well. The trailhead is accessible from Carson Pass, located directly off of Highway 88. From November-May, Sno-Park permits are required for both parking lots near the summit. These can be purchased ahead of �me here: I recommend purchasing these permits in advance, as permits are not available on site.
Tracks up to Round Top Lake from Winnemucca Lake
The trek up to Winnemucca Lake is approximately a 2 mile trip, and maintains a fairly gentle and enjoyable climb along the way. The trail begins through dazzling pine forests before eventually reaching expansive views of
Images By Craig Cooper Previous Page: Craig Climbs to winnemucca Lake in the Mokelumne Wilderness Top: Round Top Lake Middle: Tracks up to Winnemucca Lake Bottom: Craig takes in the scenic Sierra Nevada Range Opposite: Tracks up Round Top Peak
some of the Sierra’s most alluring peaks and mountain ranges. Elephant’s Back is visible, which is a popular mountain for backcountry downhill skiers. Round Top peak is also prominent, towering at 10,381 feet of eleva�on. A lot of snowshoers and cross-country skiers will complete their hikes at Winnemucca Lake but if you have the �me and stamina, I highly recommend con�nuing on to Round Top Lake. This por�on of the trail I find most difficult, as you gain approximately 350 feet of eleva�on in a mile before reaching Round Top Lake. Deep in the winter months, the lake can be frozen, crea�ng an incredibly charming winter landscape at the base of one of the most unique peaks in the Sierra. During my most recent trip to Round Top Lake, I was fortunate enough to be able to witness a small herd of deer playing in the snow, from a safe distance of course. You never know what you’re going to run into in the Sierra! To get back to the trailhead, I typically just retrace my steps. I make sure that I take the �me to truly enjoy the views even more along the much easier and much more leisure trek downhill back to the parking lot. With such a great start to the 2022-2023 winter season, I am enthusias�c and eager to get out there and explore this magical place we call home. Hope to see you out there!
Sierra Nevada Scenic Travel Routes
The Na�onal Scenic Byways Program, established by Congress in 1991, recognizes historic, scenic and culturally important roads. The California Scenic Highway Program, established by state legislature in 1963 under the Streets and Highways Code Sec�on 260, seeks to protect and enhance California’s natural beauty and scenic resources. All that to say the Sierra Nevada is home to some of the most beau�ful and scenic driving and travel experiences in the United States. There are mountain passes that take travelers from East to West over high al�tude byways that are carved into mountain sides. And there are scenic segments on highways that both travel the edges of the sierra Nevada or Travel into the mountains to a scenic stopping point, giving visitors an incredible visual experience of mountain authority. On this page you will find a basic descrip�on to the Scenic byways and scenic routes of the Sierra Nevada and nearby areas of significance. Many of these by-ways we have larger feature informa�on provided to links of the individual routes and stories or news events we have collected for your enjoyment.
64 miles - Take 90 minutes to drive or three hours to visit places along the way. Tioga Pass is only open in the summer and provides travelers a scenic route through Yosemite Na�onal Park. Driving Tioga does require a park entrance fee but will take you through Tuolumne Meadow, and next to Tenaya lake and Olmsted Point along the route. It also gives you access to popular camping areas such as 20 Lakes basin, White Wolf Lodge and Tuolumne Campground. Sonora Pass - Scenic Route 108
Sonora Pass (108) is a designated Scenic Highway and is 64 miles east to west. Sonora is known for its stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It is the highest highway pass in the Sierra Nevada. It reaches an eleva�on of 9,624 feet and is only open to vehicle traffic during the summer months, due to heavy snowfall in the winter. Sonora Pass offers access to a variety of recrea�onal ac�vi�es, including hiking, camping, fishing, and skiing. The pass is also home to a number of historic sites, including the Excelsior Hotel and the Kennedy Meadows Pack Sta�on. Oher Popular recrea�onal areas include the Leavi� Meadow on the East side, The Crossing of the PCT on top of the pass is great hiking area and Pinecrest Lake resort. Ebbe�'s Pass - Scenic Route 4
Ebbe�'s pass is a pure Scenic travel experience. Highlighted by a sec�on of highway that is barely wide enough for two cars and now centerline road markings, Ebbe�'s pass is a beau�ful mountain drive giving travelers access to several lakes, the Mokelumne River, Bear Valley Ski resort and Calaveras Big Tree State Park.
Ebbe�'s Pass is approximately 46 miles long. It runs from the town of Markleeville in the Central Valley to the town of Arnold in Calaveras County. The pass itself reaches an eleva�on of 8,730 feet. In the middle por�on between Lake Alpine and Silver Creek, the road and the travel experience changes drama�cally, becoming a narrow twolane road with no center line and no shoulders as it slowly winds its way up and over the Sierra crest. This part of the byway contains some steep, narrow and curvy por�ons with a few precipitous drop-offs. The route is recommended for cars and motorcycles, but is not accessible to tractortrailers, buses or large recrea�onal vehicles (RV’s).
Monitor Pass - HWY 89 Southern Pass Near Markleville
Monitor Pass reaches an eleva�on of 8,314 feet and is only open to vehicle traffic during the summer months, due to heavy snowfall in the winter. The pass is located on Highway 89 and is a designated Scenic Highway. It is a popular route for travelers heading to or from Lake Tahoe, as it offers a more scenic alterna�ve to the busier Highway 50. There are several recrea�onal ac�vi�es available in the area surrounding Monitor Pass, including hiking, camping, fishing, and skiing. The pass is also home to a number of historic sites, including the Monitor Pass Historic Summit and the Monitor Creek Pack Sta�on. Fall on monitor Pass Sierra Rec Magazine Special Edi�on 52 h�ps:// sierrarecmagazine.com
is stunning and popular local Motorcycle route for touring. Monitor Pass is also part of the annual Death Ride experience. Carson Pass - HWY 88 East to West
A popular year round route across the Sierra Hwy 88 is a popular des�na�on for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. It travels over Carson Pas at 8'574 feet and is a popular route to and from South Lake Tahoe. The Views of the sierra crest are stunning from Hwy 88 and traveling next to Kirkwood Ski resort is stunning no ma�er what season you pass. Caple Lake and Silver Lake provide road side lake access and the high Alpine meadows of Hope Valley on the easter slope of the sierra is a popular recrea�on area all year round. The Carson Pass Historic Summit: This is a historic marker located at the highest point on the Carson Pass Highway. It marks the spot where the first wagon train to cross the Sierra Nevada by way of the pass was believed to have crossed in the 1850s. Traveling to South Lake Tahoe most travelers will turn onto HWY 89 and Travel over Luther Pass at Pickets Junc�on which is located just before the Carson River start's its plunge down into the Carson Valley of Nevada. Luther Pass reaches an eleva�on of 7,740 feet and is open all year round even though it gets a heavy amount of snow in the winter. a short road that connects Highway 88 to Highway 50 and travels by several hiking trails, a Campground and the Tahoe Rim trail.
Highway 50 over Echo summit is the most popular travel route from south Lake Tahoe to Sacramento. It travels from Carson City over the Spooner summit and along the east shore of Lake Tahoe. traveling through the center of South Lake Tahoe and then over Echo summit at 7'382 feet. It is open all year round even though it receives considerable snow fall and Echo summit is historically an area of high Avalanche danger in the winter. This scenic route travels near the American river a�er crossing over Echo summit and is highlighted by views of Horsetail Falls coming out of Desola�on wilderness. This is a popular des�na�on for day hikes for travelers coming over the pass. The Historic Lodge in Strawberry serves as a popular stopping loca�on to enjoy the river and take in the scenic region. Lovers Leap is a popular camping area with rock climbing, hiking and mountain biking trails near by. Highway 50 also gives travelers access to the Crystal Basin recrea�on area North of the highway and the historic travel area of Placerville California. Yuba Pass - Highway 49
Yuba Pass reaches an eleva�on of 6,722 feet and is open to vehicle traffic year-round, although it can be prone to heavy snowfall in the winter. The pass is a designated Scenic Highway and is a popular route for travelers heading to or from the Lake Tahoe area. The Yuba Pass region features travels through historic Gold country as the Yuba River pours westerly from the Sierra Crest and the Sierra Bu�es to the California Central Valley. travelers have a plethora of camping and fishing loca�on on the Yuba with historic sites such as Downieville, Sierraville and The Gold Lakes Highway (during the summer Season). It is approximately 190 miles (306 kilometers) long and runs from the town of Oakhurst in the Central Valley to the town of Downieville in the Sierra Nevada. The highway passes through a number of historic mining towns and is known for its beau�ful views of the surrounding landscape. The Feather River Highway Route 70
The Feather River Highway State Route 70 is a scenic route known for its beau�ful views of the surrounding wilderness, including the Feather River Canyon, which the highway follows for much of its length. The highway begins in the town of Oroville, about 70 miles (113 kilometers) north of Sacramento, and ends in the town of Quincy, about 80 miles (129 kilometers) northwest of Lake Tahoe. The Feather River Highway is a popular des�na�on for outdoor enthusiasts, with many opportuni�es for hiking, fishing, and other recrea�onal ac�vi�es in the surrounding area. The highway also passes through several small towns, including Belden, Twain, and Clio, which offer a variety of services, including gas sta�ons, restaurants, and lodgings. The highest eleva�on on the Feather River Highway is about 5,340 feet above sea level. This occurs at a point near the town of Belden, which is about halfway along the highway's length.
Historic L odge Vacations in the Sierra
Historic Sierra Lodges make for a Authen�c Adventure Vaca�on
Vaca�oning in the Sierra Nevada has many op�ons for incredible adventures. Yet for some who dare to experience the Sierra with authen�city, discovering a Sierra Historic Lodge might be the recipe for an unforge�able vaca�on. There is something intriguing and relaxing about staying in loca�on a li�le of the beaten path and places that once were featured establishments to the first se�lers of the Sierra Nevada Gold rush.
With the historic Gold Rush of California we o�en think first of Ghost towns and day trip visits state parks or monuments to celebrate the history. But with a li�le research and flexibility in your travel plans you can discover a charming, loca�on with lots of story, character and community. Staying at one of the sierra historic lodges is also a great way of discovering local favorites for recrea�on and entertainment.
High Sierra Lodges | Total Escape Lodging
The word ‘high Sierra' o�en refers to the highest mountain peaks in the United States. The highest granite ranges are protected in Wilderness Areas. No road construc�on, no developments. Yet through out the Sierra, the Scenic Byways across the Sierra and countless small mountain communi�es host a variety of base camps for not only travelers on road trip vaca�ons but adventure seekers looking for a base camp for discovery in the high country.
This list of Sierra Nevada lodges and Historic Hotels is great for planning your 2023 adventure vaca�ons.
Wawona Hotel Yosemite
The Wawona Hotel is one of the most historic hotels in Yosemite Na�onal Park. The first cabin built for lodging was in 1856 gave travelers a place to stop and rest and pick up supplies when traveling through the valley. The Wawona Hotel is only 4 miles from the south entrance of the park and 28 miles from the Yosemite Valley, giving its guests a great loca�on in the park without the crowds.
The Wawona Hotel is one of the oldest mountain resort hotels in California and was completely renovated in 2002, giving the hotel its classic Victorian-era style. Opened for most of the year, the Wawona Hotel offers its guests a charming stay in a relaxed environment yet s�ll close to all of the hustle and bustle that con�nues to make Yosemite a las�ng tradi�on for many families.
Bridgeport Inn
If you wish to explore and experience the deep history, a trip to the Bridgeport Inn is the best place to start. Built around 1877, the hotel became the des�na�on where many miners sought the riches of their journey to the Bodie. Rumor says Samuel Clemens stayed there.
With a reputa�on for comfortable lodging, family fine dining and friendly service, the Bridgeport Inn has long been a favorite des�na�on for travelers from near and far.
Owned and operated by the Peters family, the Bridgeport Inn is open daily from Mid-March through October. Guests find it an ideal base from which to experience the abundance of outdoor recrea�onal ac�vi�es unique to this Eastern High Sierra paradise. Fish and explore the many lakes, rivers, and streams. Tour century-old ca�le ranches. Explore Visit Bodie, a legendary ghost town. If you can reserve a room, we recommend a stay around the fourth of July. Enjoy an old-�me, smalltown Fourth of July celebra�on.
The Evergreen Lodge is an ideal choice to travel to Yosemite and the surrounding area and provides excellent value for money. With 0ver 100 years of family memories flooding the resort, Evergreen has a wholesome value of mountain life that is hard to find in tradi�onal tourism travel. A mile from Hetch Hetchy, you may spend the day showcasing the lesser-known but amazing waterfall & granite dome. It ends the day at a campfire with local eats and snacks.
Fern Creek Lodge
Rus�c romance blooms like a desert flower at Fern Creek Lodge, one of June Lake's oldest and friendliest family lodges. Quaint cabins are a quiet hideaway at the base of the majes�c Carson Peak, where you can live in peace and privacy in the secluded horseshoe-shaped canyon loop before the drama�c mountain backdrop of Mono Basin. Grill fresh-caught fish under the covered canopy barbeques. Hike canyon trails, sail the lakes, or horseback ride into the sunset of California’s wild west.
Historic Cary House Hotel
The Historic Cary House Hotel, a bou�que loca�on for individuals and gatherings for all in one wedding, celebra�ng, and mee�ng, is conveniently located in the heart of Northern California wine and gold country and directly on the way to Lake Tahoe. The always original Historic Cary House Hotel is a calm and quiet sanctuary among the Sierra foothills. Our historic, smoke-free loca�on, with spectacular period pieces and an�ques da�ng back to 1857, is matched by excep�onal service, dedica�on to detail and a friendly, comfortable environment with free wi-fi and free parking. Walk and experience Main Street an�que shops, taste wine, olive, and cheese, browse art galleries, and taste beers at local breweries
St. Bernard Lodge
A beloved lodging stop for travelers since the 1920s, St. Bernard Lodge is currently a popular interna�onal des�na�on for visitors from all around the country and the globe. The rus�c charm of our warm, kno�y-pine interiors and quaint rooms make the St. Bernard Lodge the ideal choice for
your back-to-nature escape when you are visi�ng Lassen Volcanic Na�onal Park or Lake Almanor. The hotel is a great stop when traveling the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway between Crater Lake and Lassen Park.
The Na�onal Exchange Hotel
Built in 1856 in what was to become the most sophis�cated of the gold rush mining camps, the Na�onal Exchange Hotel is a treasured piece of Nevada City history.
This grand old dame has a new lease on life a�er an extensive, three-year, floor-to-ra�ers renova�on. Full of rich colors and pa�erns, opulent furnishings and lovingly restored original features, with whispers of stories past to be discovered around every turn…the Na�onal Exchange Hotel invites you to spend unforge�able days and nights with her. the dining at Lola's is exquisite and the old historic bar is a community favorite.
The Truckee Hotel
Established in 1873, the Truckee Hotel is a staple in tales of Truckee's past. First built as the American House, later known as the Whitney House, the structure stands tall on the historical registry.
Carriage House Inn
Be one of the first to experience the updated Historic Carriage House Inn located in the heart of the Gold Country Boom-Town in Downieville, California. This 3-story bou�que hotel has reopened under a new ownership team in the fall of 2019 but retains its charm and longstanding commitment to serving our guests.
Whether you are a long �me hiker, mountain biker, fly fisher, forest bather, wild game hunter, kayaker, rock climber, horse-person, ra�er, snow sport enthusiast, peak bagger, boater, wilderness trekker, Clamper, an�que chaser, wildlife photographer, or
you just enjoy making memories in the Tahoe Na�onal Forest and relaxing on the banks of the pris�ne North Yuba and Downie Rivers - Carriage House Inn welcomes you and adventure awaits! Lake Elowin Resort
Sierra Pines Resort - Yuba City
The resort is comprised of 40 acres of beau�ful Sierra �mberland through which State Highway 49 and the North Fork of the Yuba River meander for a third of a mile. Once a booming mining town, Sierra City has become a popular tourist area with more than fi�y glacial lakes providing one of the finest and most beau�ful recrea�on areas of the en�re state. The last remaining barn on the property is over 150 years old. The tree growing through the roof of the lobby is a century old Royal Ann Cherry Tree which s�ll bears fruit every year. The trout pond in front of the lodge is 10 feet deep in the center and holds several thousand trout. The trout range in size from 10 to 28 inches and are ne�ed daily for the restaurant’s use.
Tranquil Cabin Paradise on the Foothills of California Mountainside - Escape to Lake Elowin Resort, one of the oldest and the absolute best resorts in Three Rivers, California, 2 1/2 miles west of incredibly beau�ful Sequoia Na�onal Park. Lake Elowin Resort is set on an enchan�ng landscape along the Kaweah River. The resort’s beau�ful park-like landscape with shaded lawns and peaceful lake provides the perfect se�ng to enjoy the serenity of the Sierra Nevada mountains! Relax by the koi pond, hike the nearby Sierra Nevada mountains and trails, visit an elegant vineyard, or canoe down Kaweah River. Lake Elowin Resort is a secluded California hidden gem full of exquisite surprises!
Gold Hill Hotel - Virginia City
The Gold Hill Hotel is a picturesque country inn located in Gold Hill, Nevada, one mile south of Virginia City in the Comstock Historic District. It is the oldest hotel in Nevada and offers guest facili�es in the original 1861 stone structure, a 1987 addi�on, and several separate historic buildings. Each room features a private bath and is uniquely decorated in period style with an�ques and reproduc�ons. The Crown Point Restaurant offers fine dining, and the Gold Hill Saloon provides guests with a rus�c environment to relax and unwind. Called "Mark Twain's favorite bar" since his �me in Gold Hill back in 1862, come back in �me and enjoy your favorite liba�on in our historic bar.
The River Rock Inn in Mariposa
Tucked just off the main street in the heart of downtown Mariposa, the historic River Rock Inn checks all the boxes with nine rooms and suites, a verdant garden pa�o and an adorable onsite coffee shop, S�cks Coffee. The original structure at River Rock Inn was built in 1891 and became a hotel in 1941. Like most Mariposa hotels, it’s steps away from shopping, dining, drinks and the YARTS bus bound for Yosemite day trips.
Coulterville’s Hotel Jeffery, est. 1851, entertained notable guests, including Teddy Roosevelt, Mark Twain, and John Muir, as the town served as a primary stage stop for travelers on their way to Yosemite. Originally a saloon and fandango hall with rock and adobe walls some 30” thick, Coulterville’s landmark building was rebuilt several �mes following fires and redesigned with Victorian-esque architecture. The Jeffery Hotel will reopen as a modern and historically faithful evolu�on of the Jeffery, set to reopen in 2023, along with the adjacent Magnolia Saloon, the oldest opera�ng watering hole in California.
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Spring Time Adventure Brings Blossoms and Big Trees
Visalia California, long known as the gateway to Sequoia & Kings Canyon Na�onal Parks, was recently designated as the very first Cer�fied Au�sm Des�na�on in the county by IBCCES, a leader in cogni�ve training and cer�fica�on. For travelers with au�sm and their families, this means having the ability to travel with confidence knowing they will be treated with understanding and compassion. Visit Visalia, the city’s des�na�on marke�ng organiza�on, worked with tourism-based businesses throughout the city including hotels, museums and a�rac�ons, to undergo specialized training in au�sm spectrum disorders. The result is that key tourism a�rac�ons as well as 42% of the hotels are now Cer�fied Au�sm Centers –
and the city has been named a Cer�fied Au�sm Des�na�on. Here is a spring�me Blossom Trail i�nerary that families can follow that includes a visit to the nearby Sequoia & Kings Canyon Na�onal Parks as well as provides family-friendly hotels and a�rac�ons that are Cer�fied Au�sm Centers. At the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains, in California’s Central Valley, agricultural fields dominate the landscape. And Tulare County is the most diversified ag producing area in the world. This powerhouse of agriculture puts on a spring-�me display of blossoms that a�racts visitors from all over the state for a chance to see this amazing display. For Visalia, in Tulare County, the fields that surround the city become awash with color as the trees begin to sprout Sierra Rec Magazine Special Edi�on 65 h�ps:// sierrarecmagazine.com
their floral buds. More than 120 crops grow in and around Visalia and the orange, plum, almond, peach, and apricot trees burst with vibrant pinks and snowy white blossoms each spring�me. Almonds, walnuts, blueberries and other fruits and nuts are also preparing for their annual harvest. Star�ng in late February through March visitors can take a drive to see the Blossom Trail for themselves. Whether you are headed to Sequoia or Kings Canyon Na�onal Park and want to take a quick detour along the way to view the blossoms or you want to spend an a�ernoon exploring the orchards and groves at leisure, we have �ps to see one of the best blossom trails in California. Along the blossom trail, visitors can see not only the groves of oranges and orchards of fruit and nut trees, but also small farms and big dairies for deeper look into this region that feeds the world. Stop along the way to take a tour, visit a pe�ng zoo, or taste olive oil. Visit a farm store, the farmer’s market or a corner fruit stand. Dine in a restaurant where local chefs make the freshest ingredients shine. Immerse yourself in a region where “farm to fork” is not just a tag line, it’s a way of life.
BLOSSOM TRAIL ROUTE
Use the blossom trail map (available for free on the Visit Visalia website) as a star�ng point for your adventure, then feel free to explore. Because the roads and avenues are on a grid, you can head off the beaten path or take side roads to get the Sequoia or Kings Canyon Na�onal Park and never get too lost. You can start anywhere along the trail, spend as must �me as you like exploring, and view the beau�ful blooms along the way. If you are headed to the parks for a visit, take a brief side trip to enjoy the spring blossoms.Sequoia Na�onal Park For an “off-the-beatenpath” route to Sequoia Na�onal Park, head towards Farmer Bob’s World. Follow Route 216 Sierra Rec Magazine Special Edi�on 66 h�ps:// sierrarecmagazine.com
through Woodlake and connect with Highway 198 which goes to the park entrance. This route will take you through Plums, Almonds, Oranges and Pomegranates. There are more crops that grow along this route but may not be in bloom. If you see a farm stand along the way, stop in and see what’s in season. The Main Squeeze Market, along Highway 198 just before Lake Kaweah is a great place to stop. Kings Canyon Na�onal Park
From downtown Visalia, Highway 63 heads north toward Highway 180 and the entrance to Kings Canyon Na�onal Park. For a quick detour and bloom viewing, take Road 120 which parallels Highway 63 to the west. This will take you through orange groves, stone fruit (like peaches) and even olives! More to do:
� If you have �me, book a tour at Farmer Bob's World at McKellar Farms. They are a Cer�fied Au�sm Center. Their citrus ranch has been family owned for nearly 100 years. They offer wagon tours of the groves as well as educa�onal exhibits to learn more about the process to get the oranges from the field to your table.
Farmer Bob’s World will also host a Citrus Celebra�on April 1-8.
Along with walking tours the fragrant orchards at peak blossom �me, he offers wagon tours, u-pick and fun, farm animals. � Big L Ranch is a fun spot for U-Pick blueberries in season. They also host family friendly events, have canoes and kayaks to rent along the river, and seasonal ac�vi�es. � A�er a drive along the blossom trail, take the kids to Visalia Adventure Park, also a Cer�fied Au�sm Center. There are lots of familyfriendly ac�vi�es including miniature golf, Ko-Kart racetrack, and summer-�me fun at Sequoia Springs Waterslides. � Imagine U Children’s Museum is the best handson space for kids. Also designated a Cer�fied Au�sm Center, the museum has special sensoryfriendly play dates each month. � Tulare County Museum and Arts Visalia are both Cer�fied Au�sm Centers and offer addi�onal places to explore during your visit. One of the largest na�ve American basket collec�ons on display is at the Tulare County Museum in Mooney Grove Park. Where to stay:
Visalia has 6 hotels that are Cer�fied Au�sm Centers. They are: Best Western, Comfort Suites Downtown, Hampton Inn, Lamp Liter Inn, Marrio� Hotel, and the Wyndham Hotel.
Travel throughout California:
If you plan to travel to other areas of California, follow our California Au�sm Road Trip. Each of the a�rac�ons listed are Cer�fied Au�sm Centers and make a great stop on a California road trip. From the newly opened Sesame Place in San Diego, to L.A.s GRAMMY Museum, to the Santa Barbara Zoo and the Six Flags proper�es, au�s�c adventures and their families will have lots to explore.
The 2023 fes�val kicks off summer in Reno Tahoe and is just one reason why tens of thousands of outdoor enthusiasts flock to the Truckee River in downtown Reno. Enjoy two days of live music, food, liba�ons, cra� beer village and lots of interac�ve summer and outdoor experiences.
Reno River Fes�val Ac�vi�es
• More than 100 food/beverage vendors and outdoor merchants
• Live music featuring up and coming recording ar�sts
• Specialty areas including the Cra� Beer and Seltzer Experience
• Interac�ve summer and outdoor experiences at the Reno Tahoe Adventure Park, a carnival atmosphere with thrills for the en�re family
• Reno River Roll, costumed slow bike ride with a traveling live band
• Reno River Fes�val Cornhole Championship
Photo by Kim Steed
Eagles and Agriculture Jumping Frog Jubilee
Calling wildlife lovers tot he Carson Valley! This annual Winter weekend showcases bird, wide-open spaces and the cutest calves imaginable! Each year, the calving season draws raptors, including bald eagles, to Carson Valley.
Eagles and Agriculture celebrates their arrival and offers a chance to witness these majes�c birds. Highlights of the event include an opening dinner, where falconers bring their birds for up close viewing, tours for exclusive access to the ranches.
Come Line the roadways with your Cameras as local rancher play their part and bring the ca�le front and center for the show. Located in the beau�ful rolling foothills of California’s Gold Country just outside the quaint Gold Rush town of Angels Camp, the interna�onal The Calaveras County Fair and Jumping Frog Jubilee is disguised as a small town fair harkening back to a simpler era.
But don’t let appearances fool ya. The Calaveras County Fair and Jumping Frog Jubilee blends good ol’ fashioned fun with a hearty dollop of world literary history. Held the 3rd weekend in May each year (Thursday through Sunday) the Calaveras County Fair and Jumping Frog Jubilee commemorates the story that launched Mark Twain’s career, The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County.
Eagles & Ag 2023: January 26th through January 29th May 18th -21st 2023 - Mark Your Calendars
High Sierra
Music Fes�val
Travel in Late June to the Ul�mate In�mate Fes�val Experience!
The High Sierra Music Fes�val is an annual music and camping fes�val that takes place in Quincy, California. It was founded in 1991 and has been held every year since then. The fes�val features a variety of musical genres, including rock, bluegrass, funk, jazz, and more. In addi�on to music, the fes�val also offers a variety of other ac�vi�es, such as yoga, hiking, and cra�s. The fes�val is held over the course of four days and typically takes place in late June or early July.
Inyo National Forest
2023 Seasonal Recreation Positions
The Inyo National Forest is hiring seasonal recreation positions starting mid-June. Jobs are available in a variety of exciting and rewarding fields including visitor services, wilderness and trails, facilities and developed recreation. If your passion is working in the great outdoors or preserving and protecting America’s most exciting cultural resources, the Forest Service invites you to apply!
Recreation specialists and technicians perform most of their duties outdoors, which could include trail repair, campground and facilitieis maintenance, visitor information and wilderness protection. Positions are available across the Inyo in Bishop, Lee Vining, Lone Pine and Mammoth Lakes, CA.
To connect with a recruiter, email inf_outreachresponse@usda.gov.
Resolving to Get in Shape in 2023? Don’t Forget Your Feet
StatePoint) While you may want to tone your abs, glutes and triceps in the new year, there’s one o�en-overlooked area of the body that deserves your a�en�on too: your feet! “A lot of people hit the gym or dust off their home exercise equipment in January,” says Danielle Bu�o, DPM, FACFAS, a board-cer�fied foot and ankle surgeon and a Fellow Member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS). “But without proper precau�ons, a new exercise rou�ne can cause foot and ankle injuries that could sideline you just as you’re hi�ng your stride.” According to ACFAS, here’s what to know as you follow through on your resolu�on to get fit: Common Injuries
• Don’t play through the pain of an ankle sprain. Avoiding treatment can not only cause further damage to the ligaments which may take much longer to heal or possibly require surgery, but you may be overlooking a more serious injury — a stress fracture. • A stress fracture may feel like an ankle sprain at first, but you’ll no�ce addi�onal warning signs, such as swelling without bruising, and pain even during normal ac�vi�es or when touching the area. If you have any of these Sierra Rec Magazine Edi�on 74 h�ps:// sierrarecmagazine.com
symptoms, have your foot and ankle evaluated by a foot and ankle surgeon as soon as possible. • Pain or swelling around your Achilles tendon a�er a workout could be indica�ons of Achilles tendoni�s. Untreated, a stretched or strained Achilles tendon may worsen over �me, leading to s�ffness and fa�gue in your injured leg. Worse yet, untreated Achilles tendoni�s could result in a ruptured tendon requiring surgery and a rehabilita�on of several months. • Heel pain that lasts for more than a day or two, or worsens when you stand a�er si�ng for an extended amount of �me, may be plantar fascii�s. This common condi�on is a result of inflamma�on of the �ssue extending from your heel to your toes. If caught early, your foot and ankle surgeon can recommend at-home condi�oning. In late stages, plantar fascii�s is harder to treat and takes longer to resolve. Preven�on Tips
The good news? Many injuries are preventable. Foot and ankle surgeons offer five �ps to help you keep your feet and ankles healthy: Be smart. Consider consul�ng a personal trainer at first to ensure you’re prac�cing good form, and to increase the dura�on and intensity of your workouts gradually and safely. Stretch. Incorporate mobility and stretching into your fitness regimen, par�cularly before and a�er workouts. Be footwear aware. Wear properly-fi�ng athle�c shoes that support the arch of the foot, provide heel cushioning and are designed for the exercise in which you’re engaged. These measures can help you avoid plantar fascii�s and neuromas. Wear co�on or nonslip socks to help prevent painful blisters, which can become infected and cause more serious issues, especially if you have diabetes. Guard against bacteria. Sweaty shoes, public showers, exercise equipment and the pool deck are breeding grounds for fungus, viruses and bacteria. Wear water shoes in public areas, and a�er workouts, and get your feet clean and dry quickly. Book an appointment. Foot and ankle pain isn’t normal. It signals a problem that needs to be evaluated, diagnosed and treated by a specialist who fully understands this part of the body. To find a foot and ankle surgeon near you, use the “Find a Physician” search tool at FootHealthFacts.org. “When you exercise, your feet and ankles do a ton of work holding you up and absorbing the shock of each step you take,” says Dr. Bu�o. “So, as you kick off your new fitness rou�ne, don’t forget to protect them.”
PHOTO SOURCE: (c) kazuma seki / iStock via Ge�y Images Plus
Photo of Janet Phillips Courtesy of Reno-based photographer David Calvert | CalvertPhotography.com
Finally as we close out this Special Editon in January 2023, we pause to remember a Sierra Nevada Visionary. On December 28, 2022 Janet Phillps the Visionary and founder of the Tahoe Pyramid Trail (TPT) passed away a�er a ba�er with Lung cancer. 20 years ago, Phillips envisioned crea�ng a trail from Tahoe all the way to Pyramid Lake. The Tahoe-Pyramid Trail (abbreviated as ‘TPT’) started as an audacious idea that once completed, will result in a trail that follows the en�re length of the Truckee River, from its source at the stunning Lake Tahoe (6225ʹ) to the majes�c desert terminus of Pyramid Lake (3796ʹ). The trail (now at 80% comple�on) can be enjoyed by hikers, runners, walkers, or cyclists. Once fully completed the trail will descend nearly 2500ʹ in eleva�on over the course of the 114-mile length, using a combina�on of exis�ng dirt, paved, and historic roads, bike paths, as well as many newly constructed sec�ons of trail and connec�ng bridges in both urban and more remote trail areas.
Founder of Tahoe Pyramid Trail, Janet Phillips, Dies at age 70.
Phillips graduated from Stanford University and spent her career working in water resources along the Truckee River in Nevada. When she re�red, she knew she wanted to spend her �me crea�ng the one thing she saw missing along the Truckee River; a trail for all to enjoy. Phillips worked with two states, numerous coun�es, the railroad, and countless other agencies to get approval to build sec�ons of the trail. In 2019, Phillips was named the Reno-Sparks Ci�zen of the Year by the Reno Gaze�eJournal. EDAWN also awarded her the President’s Award. In addi�on to her primary love of the TPT Janet served as Chair, from incep�on, of the Truckee River Fund which has awarded more than 268 grants totaling well over $10 million. She was a generous supporter of a wide variety of chari�es including Keep Truckee Meadows Beau�ful, the Child Assault Preven�on, Women and Children’s Center of the Sierra, the Alzheimer’s Associa�on, the Na�onal Founda�on for Cancer Research, the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance, Resurge, Compassion & Choices, and FINCA. Phillips fought a valiant ba�le against cancer for nearly 2 years. Her legacy will forever be crea�ng the Tahoe Pyramid Trail which is already enjoyed by thousands of hikers and cyclists every year. To support Janet’s legacy and the comple�on of the trail, please visit h�ps:// tahoepyramidtrail.org/ donate/ A memorial service for Phillips will be held along the trail this spring.
Janet Phillips 1952 – 2022 Tahoe-Pyramid Trail Founder
Remember the last time your family visited the forest? It’s a place of wonder and imagination for the whole family—where stories come to life. And it’s closer than you think. Sounds like it’s time to plan your next visit. Make the forest part of your story today at a local park near you or fi nd one at DiscoverTheForest.org.
