Central Valley is the perfect basecamp to explore California’s top national [arks.
Conveniently running through the middle of the state, from Bakersfield in the south, to Yolo County in the north, adventurers can explore charming towns alongside epic scenery and sample Central Valley’s farm fresh produce along the way.
Yosemite National Park – Madera
This iconic National Park is just an hour’s drive away from Madera, or an hour and a half away from Merced, both of which are great places to use as a base. Madera offers visitors an exciting wine trail, as one of the oldest wine growing regions in America. This is a perfect introduction to California wines. Bass Lake sits just outside of the Park but is no less stunning. Enjoy the water on a paddle board or kayak and explore the lake’s incredible wildlife, surrounded by majestic pine trees.
Stay: Tenaya at Yosemite, Madera County
Kings Canyon National Park – Fresno
An hour’s drive from the entrance of Kings Canyon National Park is Fresno, often referred to as the heart of California. Take a break from exploring the park on two feet and take a bike ride exploring the Clovis Dry Creek Trail. Spanning 5.8 miles, the trail winds along a creek to the historic town of Old Town Clovis as well as passing through Clovis Botanical Garden. Take a trip to River Park Farmers Market for artisanal goods and locally-grown produce.
Stay: Courtyard Hotel by Marriott, Fresno
Sequoia National Park – Visalia
A leisurely 40 minutes’ drive from Sequoia National Park makes Visalia the ideal destination for visitors to relax after a long day hiking. The vibrant city has a natural charm, offering live entertainment, impressive art displays and farm-fresh restaurants. Head to the Chapala Grill to fuel up before embarking on a hiking adventure, with over 800 miles of trails to explore in the cities surrounding the wilderness. Enjoy the rooftop cocktail bar at The Darling Hotel to wind down after a long day out in nature.
Stay: The Darling Hotel, Visalia
For more information visit www.visitcentralvalley.com
