10 Most Breathtaking Natural Wonders in California

California is one of the most breathtaking destinations in the United States. From north to south, east to west, California has a variety of great landscapes, climates, and regions that are all great to explore. There is something for every adventurer in California. The state has many breathtaking natural wonders that shouldn’t be missed. Whether you want to explore dramatic parks or the Cali coastline, you can find it in The Golden State.

1: Yosemite Falls

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Yosemite Falls is an ideal location for visitors to explore in late spring. The falls are the highest waterfall in Yosemite Park and runs from November to July. Yosemite Falls is made up of three falls that all converge into one dramatic waterfall. Yosemite Falls peaks in May, but due to a lack of rainfall, can only be a trickle in August. Yosemite Village and Yosemite Valley Lodge are two of the best locations to view the falls from. There is also a one-mile loop trail you can hike to the bottom of the falls.

Address: Yosemite National Park, CA

Website: www.nps.gov

Also Read: Top 10 Things to Do in Yosemite National Park

2: Joshua Tree National Park

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The Mojave and Colorado Deserts converge to form Joshua Tree National Park. Located in southeastern California near Palm Springs, Joshua Tree was recognized as a national park in 1994. The park is home to a variety of distinct plants and animals while the entire area is sculpted by the strong winds that blow through the park. Joshua Tree is perfect for camping and hiking during the year, and there are ranger-led activities for parkgoers to enjoy.

Address: Joshua Tree National Park, CA

Website: www.nps.gov

3: Sequoia National Forest

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Situated in the southern Sierra Nevada mountains, the park is home to the beautiful and majestic Giant Sequoia tree. The trees are the world’s largest and the park contains the greatest grouping of Sequoias in the world. The park has more to offer than just the Sequoia tree grove as visitors explore the Needles and Kern River too. The towns around the park offer food and accommodation for travelers.

Address: Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park, CA

Website: www.fs.usda.gov

4: Channel Islands National Park & National Marine Sanctuary

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The Channel Islands National Park & National Marine Sanctuary was established in 1980 off the coast of Santa Barbara county. The area is home to a variety of marine species. It is an optimal destination to whale watch and visitors can view over 150 shipwrecks in the area. Many of the species living in the sanctuary are on the verge of extinction making the area extremely sensitive.

Address: Channel Islands National Park, CA

Website: www.channelislands.noaa.gov

5: Big Sur Coastline

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The Big Sur Coastline is one of the most beautiful, majestic areas in all of California. It is where the Santa Lucia mountains meet the Pacific Ocean, and incredible views of both can be found. The coast line encompasses 90-miles of redwood trees and rugged terrain. Many travelers seek to drive down the coastline on Highway 1 and take in the cool Pacific breeze as they cascade around twists and turns. There are plenty of spots to stop and explore the natural wonders of the coastline for anyone with time on their hands. It is a destination that visitors will want to go slow through to enjoy all the great views.

Address: Big Sur, CA 93920

Website: www.bigsurcalifornia.org

6: Lake Tahoe

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Lake Tahoe is situated on the border of California and Nevada and visitors descend on the lake throughout the year for the variety of sports and activities on offer. Lake Tahoe has winter ski resorts, summer camping areas, and hiking and biking trails galore. The Nevada side of Lake Tahoe also has a casino that attracts thousands of people to its doors each season. Of course, the lake is the main attraction thanks to the water sports on offer including boating, swimming, and fishing.

Address: Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

Website: www.visitinglaketahoe.com

Also Read: Top 10 Things To Do In and Around Lake Tahoe

7: Death Valley

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Death Valley is one of the hottest places in the entire world. Located in eastern California, Death Valley is home to a unique and diverse range of wildlife. Despite its name, some species thrive in Death Valley. Visitors can take part in the guided tours operated by park rangers. Visitors can explore the canyons and participate in the night sky events to view the area when the sun goes down.

Address: Death Valley National Park, CA

Website: www.nps.gov

Also Read: Top 10 Things to Do in Death Valley National Park

8: Redwoods National Park

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Redwoods National Park is home to prairies, woodlands, and wild rivers along with the giant trees that give the park its name. Redwoods National Park contains a 40-mile stretch of coastline that provides visitors with a rugged escape to nature.

Travelers will see small towns situated near the park where they can find lodging and food during their trip to Redwoods National Park. The park has nearly 200 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails waiting to be explored.

Visitors can also enjoy camping, but permits must be acquired to participate in backcountry camping adventures. Kids can also take part in the ranger-led education programs on their visit.

Address: Redwoods National Park, CA

Website: www.nps.gov

9: Vineyards in Napa Valley

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Napa Valley has become famous for its variety of wineries and vintages crafted in the region. Napa Valley’s vineyards cascade through the valley and give a beautiful backdrop to any visit. But the area isn’t just about ruby reds and wonderful whites.

Visitors can find restaurants with excellent culinary choices from top chefs and quaint inns to rest their heads. There are number of diverse activities to join throughout the year. From wine tastings to marathon races to concerts, people come for the vineyards in Napa Valley, but stay for the other exciting events.

Address: Napa Valley Welcome Center, 600 Main Street, Napa, CA 94559

Website: www.napavalley.com

Also Read: Top 10 Weekend Trips for the Wine Lover

10: Mount Shasta

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Mount Shasta is an Alpine haven where you can explore mountains, forests and the waterways located in the valley. Mount Shasta and Siskiyou County are filled with recreational outdoor activities for active people.

Mount Shasta is a single peak situated in the Cascade mountain chain. It rises 11,000 feet higher than the surrounding valley and dominates the landscape of northern California. Not only are visitors spoilt with incredible views, but they have hundreds of miles of hiking and mountain biking trails to explore.

The lake at the base of the mountain provides the opportunity for canoeing and fishing. It is truly a NorCal destination with everything for outdoor adventurers.

Address: Mount Shasta, CA