View of Mount Whitney from a truck stop

I took this picture of Mount Whitney a few years ago on our way home from Washington at a truck stop where we had stopped for gas. The clouds had finally moved aside enough that we could see most of the magnificent mountain that dominates the scenery in that area of California.

Wooden Bridge at Knights Ferry

Built in 1864, the 330 foot bridge at Knights Ferry is the longest covered bridge in the western United States. Closed in 1980 to vehicles, it is still open for foot traffic.

There are nearby campsites, shaded picnic areas, and many access points to the Stanislaus river. The park is popular with hikers, bikers, rafters, and joggers. It also has a visitors center with interactive exhibits about the history and ecology of the area.

A fun rafting trip for most ages begins just downriver from the bridge. Bring a large water gun, because water wars happen all along the river.

Big Tree at Calaveras Big Trees State Park

If you have neck problems, don't visit Calaveras Big Trees State Park, home of some of North America's largest trees, because you will be spending your trip looking upward at the phenomenal Sequoia redwoods. This photo is taken on the popular North Grove trail, near the park's entrance.

If you go, visit Calaveras Big Trees' official site.