After a few prior attempts trying to visit Calaveras Big Trees State Park, we finally were able to get past the visitor kiosk to walk among some of the oldest and largest living organisms on the planet. This amazing state park protects the endangered giant sequoia and provides recreation and education to the park's many visitors. There are dark sky programs as well as a fun junior ranger program for ages three and up.
Devils Postpile National Monument, located in the Mammoth Lakes, protects the unique columnar basalt formation that is the Devils Postpile. On this adventure, we explore the national monument and earn our junior ranger badges. Highlights of this trip include the hike to Rainbow Falls and viewing the Devils Postpile from the PCT/JMT.
With fruit trees, pie, stunning canyons, and natural bridges, Capitol Reef National Park is an adventurer's paradise. While it was quieter than Arches or even Canyonlands, this national park was probably my favorite.
Arches National Park in Moab, Utah is home to thousands of arches and natural rock formations, including the famed Delicate Arch.
Canyonlands is the largest national park in Utah with diverse geology and interesting features. Points in interest include balanced rocks, deep canyons, needle-like spires, and the famed Mesa Arch.
The Cranky Camper 