Holidays in Northern California

Northern California Holiday

Explore the outdoors, from rivers and lakes to mountains and volcanoes. Here miners once came to find gold and tourists now find nature’s recreational treasures. Northern California is the region north of San Francisco and the mindset of outdoor living and healthy recreation. Visit this welcoming area to explore its history, enjoy outdoor sports and appreciate splendid views.

Far North California is the state’s least populated area, meaning attractions are often uncrowded and peaceful. Explore Lassen Volcanic National Park to see and smell its sulfurous steam vents and mud pots and hike through many acres of lovely wilderness. Rent a houseboat to party in style on Shasta Lake. Catch trout in the cold waters of Trinity Lake. Walk along the interesting Sundial Bridge across the Sacramento River in Redding ’s Turtle Bay Exploration Park to see turtles and other reptiles and mammals.

Appreciate stunning views of lighthouses, towering cliffs and raging ocean waves along the northern California coast between Mendocino, Eureka and Crescent City. From December through May, more than 15,000 grey whales pass near the shoreline on their migratory path. Visit Redwood National and State Parks where you can walk among trees growing to 350 feet (110 metres) tall and over 2,000 years old. Kayak along the coast and observe other plants and wildlife in these peaceful parklands.

Move inland to Gold Country, where aspiring miners searched for and sometimes found vast gold deposits starting in 1848, sparking westward travel of more than 300,000 people. Visit the California State Capitol Museum in Sacramento to learn about this pioneer history and see the state’s modern government in action. Learn how efficient rail travel was developed and contributed to the state’s progress in the California State Railroad Museum .

Farther south and east is the Sierra Nevada Range with snow-capped mountains for challenging climbs or spectacular views, including Mount Whitney at over 14,500 feet (4,550 metres) tall. Hike and ski at the numerous resorts around Lake Tahoe . Go boating on the brilliant emerald-blue waters of this deep lake.

Escape to Northern California to appreciate a healthy lifestyle amid natural beauty.