Discover the Majestic Calaveras Big Trees State Park
Experience the breathtaking beauty of towering sequoias and diverse wildlife at Calaveras Big Trees State Park, a must-visit destination in California.
Calaveras Big Trees State Park is a natural wonder located in the heart of California's Sierra Nevada Mountains. This enchanting park is renowned for its towering Giant Sequoias, some of which are over 2,000 years old. As you wander through the serene groves, you'll be captivated by the sheer size and majesty of these ancient trees, which are the largest living things on Earth. The park offers a variety of trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the breathtaking wilderness. The trails weave through stunning landscapes, featuring lush meadows, bubbling streams, and vibrant wildflowers, making it a perfect spot for photography and nature appreciation. In addition to hiking, the park provides opportunities for picnicking, bird watching, and wildlife viewing, with deer, squirrels, and numerous bird species often spotted. The park also hosts educational programs and ranger-led tours that delve into the unique ecology and history of the sequoia trees, giving visitors a deeper understanding of this remarkable ecosystem. Whether you are seeking adventure or tranquility, Calaveras Big Trees State Park is a sanctuary that promises unforgettable experiences and lasting memories amidst nature's grandeur. Don't forget to explore the nearby visitor center, which offers insightful exhibits and information about the park's history and preservation efforts, enhancing your visit to this majestic location.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy peaceful trails and avoid crowds.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes, as some trails can be uneven and steep.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and towering trees.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
- Consider joining a ranger-led tour for an in-depth experience of the park's natural history.
A brief summary to Calaveras Big Trees State Park
- 1170 CA-4, Arnold, California, 95223, US
- +1209-795-2334
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-6 pm
- Thursday 6 am-6 pm
- Friday 6 am-6 pm
- Saturday 6 am-6 pm
- Sunday 6 am-6 pm
Getting There
-
Car
From Redwood National and State Parks, take the US-101 S towards Eureka. After approximately 30 miles, take exit 663 for CA-299 E towards Redding. Continue on CA-299 E for about 40 miles until you reach I-5 N. Merge onto I-5 N and continue for about 45 miles. Take exit 578 for CA-44 E towards Lassen Park. Stay on CA-44 E for about 15 miles and then merge onto CA-89 S. Follow CA-89 S for approximately 20 miles until you reach CA-4 E. Turn left onto CA-4 E and continue for about 30 miles until you reach Calaveras Big Trees State Park at 1170 CA-4, Arnold, CA 95223. Be aware of potential parking fees at the park entrance.
-
Public Transportation
To reach Calaveras Big Trees State Park from Redwood National and State Parks via public transport, you can take a combination of buses. Start by taking a local bus to Eureka Transit Center. From there, board an Amtrak Thruway bus to Stockton. Upon arrival in Stockton, transfer to a Greyhound bus heading to Arnold. Be sure to check the schedules in advance, as they can vary. Keep in mind that this method may take significantly longer than driving directly, and you should account for the costs associated with each leg of the journey.
Attractions Nearby to Calaveras Big Trees State Park
- San Antonio Creek Falls
- California Cavern State Historic Landmark
- Mercer Caverns
- Moaning Caverns Adventure Park
- Columbia State Historic Park
- Natural Bridges Trailhead
- Angels Camp Museum
- Gold Rush Originals
- Black Chasm Cavern National Natural Landmark
- Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park
- Dragoon Gulch Trail Head
- Mark Twain Cabin
- California Gold Panning
- Kennedy Gold Mine Tours
- Miners' Bend Park
Landmarks nearby to Calaveras Big Trees State Park
- Sierra Nevada Logging Museum
- California Historical Landmark 465: Site of Brownsville
- Murphys (California Historical Landmark No. 275)
- The Peter L. Traver Building (California Historical Landmark No. 466)
- California Historical Landmark 253: Sandy Gulch
- California Historical Landmark 268: West Point
- Vallecito State Historic Landmark
- Vallecito Bell Monument (California Historical Landmark No. 370)
- California Historical Landmark 123: Columbia
- California Historical Landmark 424: Sawmill Flat
- California Historical Landmark 284: Jesus Maria
- Springfield (California Historical Landmark #432)
- California Historical Landmark 288: Altaville
- California Historical Landmark 734: Angels Hotel
- Angels Camp (California Historical Landmark No. 287)