Located in central California, the city of Fresno is your gateway to some of the best national parks in America. Its excellent location also means that the idyllic coastlines, or a visit to the big cities of San Francisco or Los Angeles, are within easy reach. Enjoying mild and wet winters along with balmy, hot summers, a trip here can be well utilised whatever time of the year.
Introducing Fresno
When it comes to things to do in Fresno itself, there is somewhat of a limited choice. Most tourists use it simply as a base to explore the stunning surrounding areas. For a few days spent in the city however, family fun can be had at Island Water Park and Blackbeards Family Fun Centre where visitors can enjoy everything from paintball to arcade games. For those not with a family, the Forestiere Underground Gardens are a popular attraction. A little shopping in America is usually favoured by most visitors and there is ample opportunity at River Park Shopping Centre, the largest and most popular mall the city has to offer. When it comes to restaurants and nightlife Fresno will hit the spot with most cuisines easily available, perfect to keep you fully fuelled for your day time adventures.
Explore further afield
Trips out from Fresno are plentiful and will surely dominate your visit; choosing where you want to visit first will probably be your biggest hurdle. Millerton Lake is close to home and just a 12 mile drive away. When the temperatures soar, it’s the perfect place to go to have some fun and cool off in the water. Go swimming, fishing and boating. Keep your eyes peeled for the wildlife that frequents the park such as squirrels, cottontails, mule deer and badgers. In the winter months, embark on a boat tour to view the bald eagles which live here.
Yosemite National Park
The famous Yosemite National Park is one of the largest and best known National Parks in the USA. It’s in such close proximity, a good few days spent here, if not longer, will no doubt feature highly on your to-do list. Escape to the stunning scenery which encompasses mammoth mountain faces, plunging into blankets of dense woodland, filled with huge trees and interspersed with lakes and waterfalls. Words probably won’t do Yosemite justice. Rich in flora and fauna, the park is home to a huge variety of wildlife from the brown bear to coyotes. Enjoy the breath-taking surrounding and go hiking and camping, rock climbing, canoeing, cycling, horseback riding, take photographs, swimming and rafting. In winter, strap your skis and take to the pistes.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park are a whole other matter entirely. They are probably best visited in conjunction because they are so close. Spectacular valleys, plunging waterfalls and giant trees are the focus of Sequoia. Whereas Kings Canyon is regarded more for its distinct rocky outcrops. Take a stroll on one of the many scenic trails. Alternatively, get down to business and head out on a full scale hike. In Sequoia, visit the fabulous Crystal Cave packed with stalagmites and stalactites. Highlights of King Canyon include Buck Rock Lookout and Mist Falls, some of the largest falls in the park. A visit to these two will be an outdoor enthusiast’s dream.
Come to Fresno for a truly unforgettable, fun and adventure filled holiday exploring some of California’s, and indeed the USA’s, best National Parks.
Have you ever visited this area of California or set foot in any of the National Parks? Share your experiences in the comments section below, we would really love to hear them.
