Fresno County: A Different Kind of California Adventure

Fresno County: A Different Kind of California Adventure

Fresno County is made for those seeking to experience the outdoors. Spring and summer are prime times to enjoy scenic hiking trails, serene lakes, wondrous national parks and annual events celebrating the region’s agricultural roots.

HIT THE TRAILS

With some of the best hiking trails in California, Fresno County’s natural beauty is on full display. It provides steady paths for beginners or more of a challenge for experienced hikers. Wander Pincushion Mountain Trail, a 4.5 km round-trip located about 30 minutes from the Fresno/Clovis area. A favourite among locals, the short trail overlooks Millerton Lake and ends with a steep climb up Pincushion Peak to a view of Fresno and Clovis in the distance.

Further up the San Joaquin River, more experienced hikers and bicyclists can trek through the grasslands of the McKenzie Table Mountain Preserve. Climb to the top of Big Table Mountain from Wellbarn Road (12.7 km roundtrip). Along the way, see blooming wildflowers and views of the river and the Sierra Nevada mountains.

In Clovis, walkers and cyclists can follow paved trails across the city. The most famous is the Old Town Clovis Trail (15 km round-trip), that’s lined with trees and leads to the charming shops and restaurants in downtown Clovis. The 12.4 km round-trip Lewis S. Eaton Trail runs through Fresno’s Woodward Park along the San Joaquin River bluffs. Enjoy a view of the river and Sierras on this trail located within the city limits.

ON THE WATER IN FRESNO COUNTY

Lakeside is Fresno County’s best side. Find great lakes right in the heart of California to experience water sports, boating, or a serene day on the lakeshore. Shaver Lake is just an hour northeast of Fresno, perfect for jet skiing, canoeing, wakeboarding and more! Go horseback riding at sunset and take a tour of the land around the lake via Shaver Stables. Set sail on Huntington Lake, located further north in the Sierra Nevada. The lake is excellent for kayaking and fishing, and hosts the annual High Sierra Regatta yacht races. Find a tranquil spot and gorgeous views at Pine Flat Lake.

The reservoir is a prime location for catching spotted bass, largemouth bass, catfish and trout. Take a wild ride 16 km down the Kings River in the Sierra National Forest! The Kings River Expedition Class 3 whitewater rafting trips are a thrill ride that lead through winding channels and cold waters. Located about an hour east of Fresno/Clovis, family-friendly tours are available. Kayaking and canoe tours along the San Joaquin River are perfect for taking in the sights and sounds along the riverbank.

The San Joaquin River Parkway and Conservation Trust, Inc. offer family-friendly tours that start with a nature walk to learn about the wildlife and plants near the river. River guides will then lead a canoe tour on the water. Watch the sunset in Fresno County from a kayak on the river, and then enjoy a night hike along the bank.

UNLIMITED BREATHING ROOM

No other county offers you three extraordinary national parks located a short drive away. Experience unlimited breathing room when you journey to Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Drive 90 minutes outside Fresno/Clovis to find stunning landmarks and incredible views that are sure to leave you breathless. See the famous El Capitan Mountain, climb Half Dome and sit beneath the giant sequoias in Mariposa Grove in Yosemite. Sequoia National Park is a bucket

list experience. Stand beside the General Sherman, climb to the top of Moro Rock or trek through Crystal Cave in this extraordinary park home to the largest trees in the world. From roaring falls and serene lakes to magnificent trees like the General Grant and Fallen Monarch, Kings Canyon National Park is a hidden treasure that cannot be overlooked. Kings Canyon is the deepest canyon in the United States, and the park is quieter than Yosemite and Sequoia.

CELEBRATION OF AGRICULTURAL ROOTS

Rooted in its vast agricultural industry, Fresno County’s food scene is unparalleled, offering diverse cuisines made from the freshest ingredients. Fresno County’s agricultural footprint spans two million acres, producing more than 300 crops. In this heartland of farmto-fork dining, discover foods from across various cultures that make up the community. Experience unique food truck dining that has become part of Fresno County’s culinary culture, and tap into the local craft beer scene by visiting the Brewery District in Fresno and breweries across Clovis.

Forestiere Underground Gardens tells the story of a citrus farmer who spent 40 years hand-carving his home beneath Fresno’s soil. Walk through this underground wonder to see where Baldassare Forestiere carefully designed rooms, courtyards and even an aquarium using nothing but farm tools and his imagination. In late April, strap on those cowboy boots and hang on to those hats as the annual Clovis Rodeo rolls into town. See riders from the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) showcase top-tier performances and roping events at the Clovis Rodeo Grounds. The weeklong event also features parades, concerts, dances and plenty of food.

No trip to Fresno County is complete without experiencing one of many year-round farmers’ markets. Find fresh produce, artisan foods, and join in the celebration of the county’s farming heritage. In the spring and summer, hop on the Fresno County Fruit Trail, the annual harvesting of all fruits across our county. Tour local farms and pick up fresh produce right from the source.

From natural outdoor beauty to unique experiences and farmto-table dining, plan your visit to Fresno County for a different kind of California adventure. Visit visitfresnocounty.org for more information.