Forget Yosemite, California's Hidden Gem State Park Boasts Impressive Sequoias And Scenic Hikes

When trying to experience some of California's awe-inspiring nature, you may think of visiting one of the state's national parks, such as Yosemite. After all, it's California's most famous national park and is home to some incredible waterfalls. However, the downside is that because the park is so popular, there's often a long wait to get in, and moving around through the park can be slow and challenging. Fortunately, the Golden State has plenty of other opportunities, particularly if you're trying to see massive trees. But we're not talking about redwoods. Instead, you can marvel at gigantic sequoias at the aptly named Calaveras Big Trees State Park near Arnold.

If you're not familiar with the small town of Arnold, it's deep in Central California, about 90 minutes east of Stockton. This also helps add to the adventure, as you have to travel somewhat far to appreciate the park's "big trees." Fortunately, though, you can also camp on site so it's easier to take your time and explore as much of the park as possible.

As you might imagine, one of the main things to do at this state park is hike around and marvel at the size and scale of the area's sequoias. So if you're trying to get your steps in, there are multiple trails weaving through the park to help you see everything. If the trees are your main priority, there are two loops to check out. First, there's the North Grove Trail, which spans 1.7 miles and is easily accessible to most visitors, including those in wheelchairs when weather allows. 

For more of a challenge, the South Grove Trail is much longer, stretching for 5.5 miles over moderately difficult terrain. However, the benefit of hiking the whole thing is that you get to see the Agassiz Tree, the largest in the park, towering 250 feet tall and measuring over 25 feet in diameter six feet above the ground. On both grove trails, make sure to grab a hiking brochure that offers more information about the trees and the area's ecology. At the time of writing, the South Grove area, including this trail, is closed for prescribed burning.

Outside of these two loops, there are other trails to explore, ranging in difficulty from a short walk to an intense eight-mile round-trip hike to the base of the Stanislaus River Canyon. Overall, whether you're looking to test yourself or just want more ways to see these incredible trees, Calaveras has hiking options for every skill level.

The best way to reach Calaveras Big Trees State Park is to fly into California's unique capital city full of Gold Rush history: Sacramento. The park is just over two hours southeast of Sacramento International Airport. As we mentioned, camping is allowed on site, so you don't necessarily have to find accommodations nearby. However, if you prefer to stay in a hotel, there are a number of lodges and inns along Route 4, which leads to the park.

There are two main campgrounds: North Grove and Oak Hollow. There used to be four cabins available for rent, but they're closed until further notice at the time of this writing. North Grove is the larger option, with 74 campsites. Both campgrounds offer restrooms, showers, and running water. To use the showers, though, you must purchase tokens. There's also a dump station at North Grove if you're visiting in an RV. Campsites are also equipped with a bear locker. Bears are present throughout the park, so you're required to keep all food in a locker when not using it. Also, keep in mind that you may encounter a bear while hiking.

Finally, if you're impressed by the sequoias and want to experience another of California's picturesque parks full of giant, ancient, towering trees, you can plan a visit to Redwood National and State Parks. However, as those parks are over seven and a half hours north of Calaveras, that may be too far. Fortunately, California is full of parks featuring redwoods, and Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park is just two and a half hours west in Oakland.