California - High Sierra Area Attractions

The Grant Grove Visitor Center contains exhibits on the logging history of the sequoias and the wildlife, and early native inhabitants.

Big Pine (pop. 1,500) covers 28,000 acres in Inyo National Forest and preserves gnarled trees, some 4,000-years-old. Four self-guiding trails are available. The main point of interest is the Schulman Grove, unfortunately the visitor center was destroyed by fire in 2008 but is expected to be rebuilt.

Big Pine (pop. 1,500) covers 28,000 acres in Inyo National Forest and preserves gnarled trees, some 4,000-years-old. Four self-guiding trails are available.

Kernville (pop. 1,700) started as a gold town in 1860. Today, it's a resort community located in the high desert of Southern California.

The Kern Valley Museum in Kernville has artifacts from the history of the valley including displays of the Tubatulabal Indians, gold mining, agriculture and lumber. There are also displays from local artists.

The Lodgepole Visitor Center has displays on the sequoias, geological history and plant life.

Taft (pop. 5,902), located 28mi/45km southwest of Bakersfield, attracts outdoors enthusiasts because of its mild climate, antique shops and bed & breakfasts.

The West Kern Oil Museum in Taft is home to one of the last remaining original wooden derricks. The derrick stands over its original well, with all the cable tools intact. The museum preserves, exhibits and interprets artifacts, books, and equipment that highlight the story of oil in California, particularly in West Kern County.