Take a Hike, No Really
Hey there! If you’re a nature lover or just looking for some breathtaking scenery, you’re in luck! Fall is the perfect time to explore the amazing hiking trails in Fresno County. Picture yourself surrounded by the vibrant colors of autumn while enjoying the crisp fall breeze. And guess what? You don’t have to go far from Fresno and Clovis to experience the beauty of three of California’s stunning national parks: Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon.
Discover the Hidden Gems
Let’s start with Yosemite. Have you ever heard of the Mount Watkins Trail? It’s a 6.2-mile hike that offers a unique perspective of the legendary Half Dome, Yosemite Valley, and Cloud’s Rest. Trust me, the views are absolutely breathtaking! If you’re more into shorter hikes, head over to Sequoia National Park and check out the Eagle View Trail. It’s only 1.5 miles long, but the scenery is out of this world. You’ll get a colorful view of the entire valley and even catch a glimpse of Moro Rock. And let’s not forget about Kings Canyon National Park. Just off the Generals Highway, you’ll find the Buena Vista viewpoint. This 2-mile hike rewards you with incredible outlooks of Redwood Canyon and the majestic Sierra Crest summits. It’s truly a hidden gem!
Local Treasures
But wait, there’s more! If you prefer to stay closer to Fresno and Clovis, don’t worry. There are plenty of local hiking trails that offer spectacular views. One of the favorites among locals is the Pincushion Mountain Trail. It’s a 2.8-mile hike that overlooks Millerton Lake and ends with a steep climb up Pincushion Peak. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view of the foothills and Fresno in the distance. Another must-see is Stevenson Falls, the tallest waterfall in Fresno County. This 7-mile hike takes you through the Sierra National Forest, where you’ll witness the rushing falls in all their glory. And if you’re more into leisurely walks, Fresno and Clovis have many walking trails perfect for walkers and bicyclists. The Old Town Clovis Trail, for example, is lined with beautiful trees and leads you to charming shops and restaurants in Old Town Clovis.
Seasonal Showcase
Who says fall and winter are dull seasons? Not in Fresno County! We have a vibrant lineup of special events that will keep you entertained all year long. In October, don’t miss the annual Taco Truck Throwdown at Fresno’s Chukchansi Park. It’s a taco lover’s dream come true, with the best food trucks in Central California competing for the title of champion. And there’s live entertainment all night long! If you’re up for a challenge, join the Two Cities Marathon in November. This Boston qualifying marathon takes you through the streets of Fresno and Clovis, pushing your limits and giving you a sense of accomplishment. And when it comes to holiday shopping, One Enchanted Evening in Old Town Clovis is the place to be. Local businesses set up their shops for the Christmas season, creating a magical atmosphere that will get you in the holiday spirit. And of course, we can’t forget about the local pumpkin patches and the traditional Christmas tree hunt at Hillcrest Tree Farm and Kings Canyon National Park. To top it all off, celebrate the Hmong Cultural New Year at the Fresno Fairgrounds. It’s the largest event of its kind in the United States, where you can immerse yourself in Hmong culture, heritage, and delicious Hmong foods.
Best Brews & Bites
All that hiking and celebrating is bound to make you thirsty and hungry! Lucky for you, Fresno County has an incredible brewery scene. Our local brew masters are putting a seasonal spin on their craft beers, and you don’t want to miss out. Picture yourself sipping a cold beer in one of our beer gardens, while listening to local musicians and enjoying the perfect fall weather. The Brewery District in Downtown Fresno is a must-visit, with a wide variety of drinks on tap. If you’re into craft beer, make sure to try Half Dome at Tioga Sequoia Brewing Company or Pie of the Tiger at Full Circle Brewing Company. And if cocktails are more your style, the Modernist bar always has something new and exciting to offer each season. In Clovis, don’t forget to grab a growler at Crow and Wolf Brewing Company’s industrial-style brewery. It has been voted the best in Central California!
But Fresno County isn’t just about beer. We take pride in being THE farm-to-fork destination. As a top producing agricultural county, our chefs use locally grown ingredients to create unique and delicious dishes. You’ll find a melting pot of cuisines from all over the world, from Japanese mochi to El Salvadorian pupusas, street tacos, and baba ghanoush. It’s a food lover’s paradise!
Find more information on vistifresnocounty.org.
Photo: Freepik.com
