Walk amid some of the biggest trees in the world, go fishing while admiring stunning scenery, and set up camp in the High Sierras of Tuolumne County.
In all of California, Tuolumne County is unique. Located in the Sierra Nevada mountain range in California. This region is a natural paradise with plenty of places to walk, bike, camp, and ride horses. And just enjoy being outside. Yosemite National Park is famous for its soaring huge sequoia trees. And the setting for many of renowned photographer Ansel Adams’ well-known images, may also be explored from Tuolumne County.
Giant Sequoia walk in Tuolumne Grove
The enormous sequoias in Tuolumne are an incredible sight. At maturity, they stand taller than London’s Big Ben at more than 76 metres. Their enormous trunks can grow to a diameter of over 9 metres, which is roughly the same length as a bus. And these magnificent trees are among the world’s longest-living tree species, with an average lifespan of more than 2,000 years.
Hike Tuolumne Grove in Yosemite National Park to find solitude among the woods. From Big Oak Flat Road, you can travel to the trailhead, stopping at the Big Oak Flat Information Station en route. After leaving the trailhead, you’ll descend steeply past sugar pine and white fir trees until coming across a sign that announces the adventure to come: “Entering the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias.”
Around 0.3 kilometres past the sign, you’ll come across your first sequoia. About a dozen mature giant sequoias can be seen if you keep going down the trail. The track is only 4 kilometres round-trip, but the ascent on the way back makes it important to have enough of water and energy. It was a truly unforgettable experience.
Fishing with flies at Kennedy Meadows
Get up early because you’ll want to catch the colourful dawn that illuminates the Stanislaus River and nearby mountains. Adventurers of all stripes love to visit Tuolumne County’s Kennedy Meadows. Try your hand at fly fishing; a suitable location is just south of Kennedy Meadows Resort, and outfitters like Sonora Fly Co. can give you all the tools you need.
Brown, brook, and rainbow trout can all be caught by anglers. If you’ve never even held a fishing rod, don’t be concerned. You can arrange for a local expert to show you the ropes for casting a line and take you to their favourite fishing spots. In no time at all, you’ll be reeling in your first catch. Finish off your day at the resort with a home-cooked lunch at Kennedy Meadows and a refreshing beverage in the saloon.
Tuolumne County offers a variety of camping alternatives in and around Yosemite National Park
including opulent cabins, cosy yurts, RV and tent sites, and vintage camping trailers. Try “glamping” in a fully furnished Conestoga waggon at Yosemite Pines RV Resort and Family Lodge for a dash of pioneer spirit. The waggons have supplied beds, air conditioning and heating, a refrigerator, a microwave, and a coffee maker. They can accommodate up to six people. A picnic table and fire ring are also included in each Conestoga waggon, making them ideal for evenings spent outside.
The numerous attractions of Yosemite National Park are accessible by car from any accommodation. Visit the lovely Tuolumne Meadows, take in the breathtaking views from Half Dome and Glacier Point, or travel to the mesmerising Bridalveil Fall. At Columbia State Historic Park, you can learn more about the history of the California Gold Rush. Visit the buildings from the historic gold rush at Matelot Gulch Mining Company, or pan for gold on your own. Whether you discover gold nuggets or witness a beautiful Sierra sunset, Tuolumne County is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.