I never been in the USA but I am planning to go for the first time this summer, these are some of the things I would be personally be interesting on seeing If I would go to northern California...
I would definitely go see the redwood forest... I understand 8h is no joke, is it worth it for that drive ?? I don't know, I guess it depend if you could hit other attraction along the way
The Mystery Spot
Located just outside of Santa Cruz, the Mystery Spot is a gravitational anomaly that attracts visitors from across the country. Come witness this strange attraction for yourself, then take a fun photo to show your friends. This mysterious spot will amaze you!
Livermore Valley Wine Country
45 minutes east of San Jose, Livermore Valley Wine Country welcomes visitors with over 40 wineries open for tastings and tours of the vineyards. Amid picturesque canyons, ridges and outposts of suburbia, the lush vines and convivial tasting rooms define the quality of life in the Livermore Valley. Welcoming tasting rooms showcase wine varietals and offer year-round activities.
Big Sur and bixby bridge
Big Sur is part of California’s central coast between Carmel and San Simeon. It has numerous state parks with breathtaking, unmatched coastal views, making it a must-visit area for outdoor enthusiasts. The area is a favorite among campers, hikers, bikers and backpackers. A must-see location is Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park to McWay Falls, so gorgeous that it appears untouched. The area is home to one of California's most picturesque attractions, the Bixby Bridge. Dare to cross, but before you do, pull off and take it all in - a true bucket-list moment!
Big Basin Redwoods State Park / Big Trees Narrow Gauge Railroad
Big Basin Redwoods is California’s oldest state park and is home to ancient coast redwoods that are more than 50 feet around and stand as tall as the Statue of Liberty. The magnificent redwood groves are an amazing sight, but if that’s not enough, the park also offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean./
Travel over trestles, through towering redwood groves and up a winding narrow-gauge grade as conductors narrate the history of Roaring Camp depot, the railroad and the forest. These railways are among the oldest and most historic lines in California. This route, which previously carried lumber, now takes passengers through the redwoods and drops you off along the Pacific Coast, at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
Lassen Volcanic National Park,
Lassen Peak, the dominant volcano in the park, last erupted in 1914, and it didn’t stop rumbling until 1917.
However, since 1921, the volcano has been dormant.
Why You Should Go
The park is home to four different types of volcanoes.
Even though they haven’t erupted in 50 years, they are still regarded as active.
The hydrothermal activities at the park give an insight into how volcanoes work.
The Crystalline lakes at the park are great places to rest.
What To Do
You can take a walk through the Bumpass Hell Trail, where a visitor to the park once burnt his leg, or go to the Drakesbad Guest Ranch, where you can discover the terrain from guarded horseback rides.
McArthur Burney Falls — Burney
The Burney Falls stands at a height of 129 ft. and a width of 250 ft., which makes it one of the largest falls in the whole of California.
Why You Should Go
Every day, the McArthur Burney Falls produces more than 100 gallons of water, which joins with the flowing water.
The water at the fall mainly comes from individual springs, which creates a mist in the area.
Additionally, the best time to visit the fall is on a clear day because the area is not the best place to stay when it’s raining or cold.
What To Do
The place is very cozy and perfect for outdoor activities like camping.
Another thing to do at the Falls is to take a hike through the highs and lows of the Burnley area. You can also take pictures while you’re at it.
Bodie State Historic Park — Bridegeport
Bodie state sprang up out of nowhere during the American Gold Rush near Yosemite as a mining town.
The town derives its name from Waterman S. Body (William Bodey, who discovered gold on the land.
Why You Should Go
If you’re looking for fun things to do around Northern California, visit Bodie.
The area used to be a booming place in the 19th century.
The area is also preserved to look like the residents just stepped out.
So, you can have an idea of how it was in the 1800s.
What To Do
You can learn all about the history of how the town went from a booming metropolis to an empty, abandoned place during your visit.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Bridgeport Inn
The Petrified Forest — Calistoga
he Petrified Forest was bought by Ollie Orre Bockee in 1912, who made it into a tourist attraction.
In 1978, the forest joined the list of California Historical Landmarks.
Why You Should Go
The area is filled with beautiful creatures and the petrified trees are the results of a natural occurrence that are both enlightening and breathtaking.
At the shop, you can get souvenirs for yourself or a novelty gift for your loved one.
What To Do
Take a walk through the Meadow Trail to take a look at the petrified trees around the area.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Solage, An Auberge Resor
