Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 175 miles, approximately 4 hours. Walking up to 1 mile; smooth, flat terrain.
At the hotel, enjoy a buffet with assorted toast, fresh fruit, yogurt plus fruit juice, coffee, tea, milk, and water.
For our next field trip, we will ride to the Kings Canyon Visitor Center in Grant Grove Village for a self-directed exploration to view the exhibits. We’ll then ride to the General Grant Tree. Named for General Ulysses S. Grant, this giant sequoia is only second in trunk volume to the General Sherman. A relative of the coastal redwood — several of which rank among the tallest trees on Earth — giant sequoias can reach a height of well over 200 feet and can live several thousand years. The General Grant Tree is estimated to be close to 1,700 years old. During an expert-led exploration, we’ll learn about the ecology and natural history of these tree communities, as well as insights into related human history.
At a scenic spot in the park, we’ll have boxed lunches.
Next, we’ll hike to Roaring River Falls. Created by snowmelt running through the canyon, the falls drop nearly 40 feet off a narrow ledge into the pool below. We’ll have expert commentary about natural history and storytelling from a local naturalist as we make our way to the falls. We’ll have excellent views of the Kings River and the surrounding granite cliffs, including Grand Sentinel (8,518 feet) and North Dome (8,717 feet).
We will ride to a local restaurant and have a plated meal with entrée, rolls and butter, dessert, and nonalcoholic beverages; other beverages available for purchase.
We’ll remain at our dinner location for a living history program featuring John Muir (in the person of a talented reenactor). Muir (1838-1914) was born in Scotland and emigrated to the U.S. with his family in 1849. During his lifetime, he was a farmer, inventor, sheepherder, explorer, botanist, and writer, but is best known as America’s most famous and influential naturalist, conservationist, and founder of the Sierra Club. Considered one of the founders of the National Park System, Muir’s writings and efforts resulted in Congress creating Yosemite National Park. He was also involved in the creation of the Grand Canyon, Kings Canyon, Petrified Forest, and Mount Rainier National Parks. Returning to our hotel, prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.