Visible from outer space, California’s Central Valley is approximately 450 miles long, 22,500 square mile, and more than 13% of California’s landmass – it’s one huge trough! Ancient lands, it consisted of marshes, grasses, and wetlands; habitat for wintering birds and herds of elk, deer, and other mammals. Rimmed by foothills and mountains; flooded by rushing rivers and streams, the topography and terrain of the Central Valley has evolved over the centuries. Human intervention has altered this expansive landscape and created what is known as the world’s breadbasket. It is a beautiful place where the visual panorama is forever changing. Skies dappled with storm clouds and fields rich with greenery. It is more than food for the masses; it is a visual feast, as well.
At the heart of this region is Visalia, the oldest continuously inhabited inland European settlement between Stockton and Los Angeles, is known for its agricultural industry and historical downtown, and the Gateway to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. The name Visalia may also be linked to Arabic and Indian origins, meaning connection, grandeur, or greatness. Each of these attributes is easily tied to the wonders of Visalia.
From Visalia, it’s less than 40 miles to the Foothills Visitor Center in Sequoia National Park. The topography changes dramatically from Visalia’s 331-foot elevation to the famed General Sherman Tree (the largest living thing on Earth) at the 7,000-foot elevation. Highway 198, a narrow two-lane road, twists and turns its way into the Sierra Nevada and the marvels of Sequoia National Park’s Giant Forest. The Sierra sequoia’s are the largest living organisms on the planet and are unmatched in their mass and bulk.
If you’re planning a day-long visit to the park, put Crystal Cave at the top of your list. Ancient stalagmites and stalactites are pure magic and an excellent example of a marble cavern. The 1-1/2 round-trip hike to the cave entrance is a challenge, but the tour is worth ever step. First discovered in 1918 by Park employees, public tours began in 1940, and the cave has been a popular attraction ever since. The cave tours often sellout. Advance purchase tickets is required and recommended at least a month in advance for busy summer dates. The cave typically closes in the fall when the first snows arrive, and reopens in late May. Check online through Sequoia Parks Conservancy for dates.
Post-summer, there are still many more reasons to visit Sequoia National Park. Autumn weather remains comfy with daytime temps warm enough for shorts and river sandals; nights can be chilly but cozy; even more so as the fall season evolves. Changes in temperatures and weather should be considered when packing. Better to err on the conservative side – the layered approach is usually best – and remember, rain and early snows are always a possibility; come prepared.
The onset of autumn colors can’t be timed. Lengthening nights and colder temperatures signal the change. So in other words, later in the season is better but is no guarantee. In the solitude and calm of the autumn season, Sequoia National Park will not disappoint ardent leaf peepers. Colorful dogwoods – shades of oranges and red; understory ferns turn yellow; and blue oak woodlands display shades of bronzy-pink, orange, and yellow. From Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays the park can be crowded. However, for the most part, a quiet hush falls over Sequoia National park during the winter months. Hiking, cross-country skiing snowshoeing, and sledding are delightful options. Always check ahead for road conditions, carry chains, and prioritize layers, warm and wet weather clothing, and appropriate shoes. Check ahead for weather and road conditions, and carry chains.
The largest city in Tulare County, Visalia still retains its small town charm. Their celebrated Main Street and downtown district features an array of public art, local shops and restaurants. This pedestrian-friendly neighborhood begs to be explored. A mix of historic and newly renovated spaces, it has been Visalia’s epicenter since 1852. The magnificent Visalia Fox Theatre, a performing arts destination, opened in 1930; it closed in the 1990s. A community group restored the Spanish, Moorish, and Sri Lankan structure and it reopened in 1999 to great fanfare.
The Darling Hotel is another 1930s marvel; also centrally located in downtown Visalia. Like the Fox, the hotel previously lived as the Art Deco Tulare County Courthouse Annex which survived an earthquake in 1952. After other incarnations, it was vacant for a period of time before being revived by local investors as The Darling Hotel. The 32-room boutique hotel is brilliantly appointed in every possible way. Roof-top dining at the Elderwood restaurant and lounge features seasonal menus and scenic views.
Recommendations: There are many name-brand lodging options throughout Visalia. The Wyndham Visalia provides many options for couples, families with children, and is pet friendly. Across the street, Plaza Park includes a bark park and a variety of kid-friendly activities. The Sequoia Shuttle (which operates seasonally) picks up and drops off at the Wyndham and other locations throughout Visalia.
There are many dining options. Two top my list and are at opposite ends of the spectrum. Dimples Diner features big plates of great diner food – biscuits and gravy, home fries, waffles, crisp bacon, pancakes, onion rings, burgers and more. For more than 50 years, The Vintage Press has provided all the best in gourmet cuisine and elegant décor. So farm-to-fork, you’ll often find local farmers at the table.
A short daytrip to Exeter won’t disappoint. An outdoor gallery of 30 murals provides plenty of reasons to walk and explore. Murals have helped define the town according to Dwight Sabala, executive director of CACHE (The Center for Art & Culture Exeter). CACHE features an extraordinary display of dolomite sculptures by Adrian Green (David Green). These are a must see!
For more information, Visit Visalia is located at 112 E. Main Street.
