The landscape of the High Sierra, California inspires awe in most people that visit the area. After all, this region prompted John Muir to begin his life’s work in conservation and preservation of natural and wild places. This California Region presented the photographer Ansel Adams with the scenic views and natural wonders he captured on film. Modern visitors can enjoy the same experiences when they visit the High Sierras today.
Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is not an ordinary lake. First, the lake is large with more than 70 miles of beaches surrounding its cold deep waters. Travelers looking for solitude find it among the campgrounds accessible only by boats. However, the area does not just draw campers and boaters. Scuba divers enjoy the clarity of the water making the dives more enjoyable. Top attractions include Emerald Bay and Thunderbird Lodge.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
Looking for really big trees? The sequoia redwood grows the biggest and lives the longest of any tree. Sequoia National Park, originally called Giant Forest, is home to some of these monster trees including the General Sherman tree. This giant sequoia stands about 275 feet tall and is estimated to have been about 700 years old at the time of Christ.
Yosemite
Photographers continue to follow Ansel Adams’ lead and pointing their cameras at the wonders of Yosemite. The area is known for mountain peaks, rock domes and waterfalls. It also offers great camping, hiking and wildlife viewing. Any trip to the High Sierras should include a few days at Yosemite. The park also includes tour operators and lodging of varying levels of comfort.
Arts and Culture
Visitors can include a trip back in time at the museums located at Lake Tahoe. Checkout displays of Native American arts and history or explore the life of a gold prospector of 1849. The Lake Tahoe area also caters to the art lover with a number of galleries focusing on local artists. Summer events include theater festivals, concerts and other events. Enjoy a night on the town after a day spending time with nature.
Truckee
Named for a local Native American leader, Truckee is one of the larger communities in the high mountains of the High Sierra. The Truckee area is home to one of the great tragic events of the American West. The Donner Party became snowed in the passes of the Sierra Nevada mountains. The surviving members of the party resorted to cannibalism to survive. Donner Memorial State Park is named in honor of the group.
