For the second installment of “Where Did Maria Go?”, I take you to one of California’s most stunning national parks, Sequoia. Did you know the Sequoia redwood was named after Sequoya (a.k.a. George Guess, 1760–1843), a Cherokee man who invented a system of writing his people’s language? Some internet sources say the word sequoia means “sparrow,” but I also saw “hog,” so I’ll have to confirm with someone of the Cherokee Nation. Aside from my fascination with etymology, I love nature and the great outdoors. I am a proud National Parks passport holder and own a mug with the famous John Muir quote, “The mountains are calling and I must go.”

Camping cooking!

Sequoia Coffee Co.

The search for accommodations began with Airbnb, and as travel is surging, the prices were a tad bit too much for the adventure. My friends found available campsites, significantly more in the price range I like for national park adventures. You can also find lodging within the park if you plan far enough ahead of time. I have camped all over that park, even in Kings Canyon, and this time we stayed at Potwisha Campground, in the foothills area, so one of the first as you’re driving into the park. This campground has Kaweah River running just at the periphery, so you have that refresher there; we enjoyed a few dips in there despite the cold water. It’s nice to be close to the park entrance because you can make your way out for some local coffee, like we did when we discovered Sequoia Coffee Co.

Selfie at Tokopah Falls.

Memorial Day Weekend was busy for the park, but this did not deter us. We got some great sights in near Giant Forest Museum trailhead and relaxed at Beetle Rock. The park recently opened up a new walkway called Big Trees Trail, a chill 1.3-mile loop great for those who want to feel like they’re in nature but without the physical strain. We made our way to General Sherman Tree, where we got lucky and spotted a black bear. Did you know that by volume, General Sherman is the largest-known, living, single-stem tree on Earth? The Tree is estimated to be 2,300–2,700 years old. On our second full day, we ventured to Lodgepole Campground where we hiked up to Tokopah Falls. It’s a longish trail and can get a bit difficult for some at times, so make sure you bring a water bottle with you and be patient with yourself. The walk is totally worth the effort as you can see from our photos.

Hiking up to Tokopah Falls.

Taking a rest at Kaweah River.

Selfie at Beetle Rock overlook.

I cannot recommend this national park enough if you’re into unplugging for a few days to reset. Americans have a tendency to not explore their own backyard; and if you haven’t made your way to Sequoia, I suggest you get out there for the next three-day weekend. You can wake up to deer at the campsite across from yours. You can rent an RV, camp out of your tent or, as I mentioned above, get some lodging so you don’t have to sacrifice your luxuries. There’s nothing like nature. Did you make it to a national park for the holiday weekend? I’d love to hear about it!

— Maria Angeles, account executive