Afton Canyon Afton Canyon's surface water makes it unique in the southern California desert. Known locally as "The Grand Canyon of the Mojave" for its dramatic geological formations, this is the only place where the Mojave River flows above ground year-round - providing significant riparian (riverbank) wildlife habitat amid the desert. Since prehistoric times, the natural bounty created by this water source has made Afton Canyon a focus for living things. Dense willows and cottonwoods shaded the river, and thickets of mesquite produced bean pods for food. The ponds, marshes and streams provided habitat for a wide variety of wildlife species.
Alabama Hills Recreation Management Area This campground is shadowed by some of the most impressive peaks in the Sierra Nevada Range. Mt. Whitney, Lone Fine Peak, and Mt. Williamson rise to the west of the campground. Camping is in an open desert setting on an alluvial fan. Spread out to the east are the Alabama Hills, with their famous movie history and terrific exploring.
Alcatraz Island Out in the middle of the San Francisco Bay, the island of Alcatraz is a world unto itself. Isolation, one of the constants of island life for any inhabitant - soldier, guard, prisoner, bird or plant - is a recurrent theme in the unfolding history of Alcatraz. Alcatraz Island is one of Golden Gate National Recreation Area's most popular destinations, offering a close-up look at a historic and infamous federal prison long off-limits to the public. Visitors to the island can not only explore the remnants of the prison, but learn about the Native American occupation of 1969 - 1971, early military fortifications and the West Coast's first (and oldest operating) lighthouse. The island features many natural features as well - gardens, tide pools, bird colonies, and bay views beyond compare
Alturas Recreation Area The Alturas resource area encompasses a panorama of diversity, from evergreen forests to rocky lava flows to high desert plains. The recreational opportunities are as varied as the landscape. The visitor can camp in remote settings, hike the emigrant trails that dissect the lands, or watch herds of Pronghorn Antelope and Mule Deer. Several Indian and settler conflicts, including the Modoc Indian War of 1872Â73, occurred in this region and impart to the area a rich sense of history.The proximity of the Lava Beds National Monument and the Modoc National Wildlife Refuge provide further recreational opportunities. From hiking, camping and fishing to mountain biking and auto tours, this unspoiled country offers it all.
American River North Middle South Forks The famous Giant Gap 14-mile run of the even more famous North Fork American River is one of California's top whitewater challenges, for experts only. Cliffs tower 2,000 feet above the river. Heaps of mine tailings and old cabin ruins border this roller-coaster ride through the historic Mother Lode. Stop to catch your breath at the Lover's Leap picnic area, which features California's most venerable black oak, estimated to be 350-450 years old.
Angeles National Forest Located in southern California, lies the Angeles National Forest, encompassing 694,187 acres including almost the entire San Gabriel Mountain range. The Forest provides the striking backdrop to southern California's largest metropolitan area, the city of Los Angeles. Topography on the forest ranges from mountain peaks over 10,000 feet to low-lying canyon bottoms at a mere 1,200 feet above sea level. A good introduction to the Forest is a drive along the scenic Angeles Crest Highway (State Highway No. 2). Along the way, see how the vegetation changes with elevation and watch for wildlife-bobcat, mountain lion, bear, and perhaps get a glimpse of impressive Nelson bighorn sheep. The forest offers year-round opportunities for camping, hiking, swimming, boating, picniking, and sightseeing. Over 800 miles of forest trails lead hikers, mountain bikers, equestrians, and off-highway vehicle riders across rugged backcountry, along high, scenic ridges, and through shady, tree lined canyons. During the winter, visitors can ski at one the five ski areas or cross country ski, snow camp, hike, snow-mobile, or just play in the snow.
