When visiting the Valley, make sure to take the time to see some of the top attractions. Some of these places include Racetrack Playa, Darwin Falls, Lake Berryessa, and Eureka Dunes. In addition, you’ll want to take in some of the scenic views of the region.
Racetrack Playa
At the Racetrack Playa, you can see rocks moving across the flat surface. These rocks travel more than 1,500 feet, and they leave trails in their wake. It’s an incredible site to observe, and you can often take a photo of the entire Playa from above. It’s a great way to capture the playa’s natural beauty.
The Racetrack Playa is about two miles south of the Grandstand parking area. It’s best to walk toward the southeast corner of the playa for a great view. If you’re planning to visit, make sure you’re wearing full sun protection, and don’t walk or drive on the rocks! Also, avoid driving off established roads, because the roads can get very muddy.
Eureka Dunes
If you love desert landscapes, Eureka Dunes is a must-see destination. These massive sand dunes are the largest in California and one of the tallest in North America. These dunes are relatively isolated and have a pristine, footprint-free environment. The dune fields are home to three endemic plant species, including the Eureka Dunegrass, Evening Primrose, and Milkvetch. The area is also a favorite among photographers, particularly those who love sunsets and sunrises.
The dunes are located at the south end of the Eureka Valley. These dunes cover eight square kilometers and reach up to 200 meters. They are the tallest dunes in North America and are only accessible by foot. The dune fields are characterized by steep slopes, and visitors should use caution while hiking on them. Visitors should also listen out for the “singing sands,” which mimic the sound of distant airplanes.
Darwin Falls
Darwin Falls is a small waterfall in Death Valley that is a great place to relax and cool off. It is tucked away in a lush canyon, and attracts dragonflies and birds. The waterfall is also a great spot to picnic. To see the upper series of falls, hike up the canyon trail.
The trail to Darwin Falls is not very well marked, but it is fairly easy to follow. It is best to avoid hiking the waterfall during flash flood watches. You can reach the trailhead via the unpaved Darwin Falls Road. The trail is maintained by the National Park Service. It starts in a very dry landscape, but soon you will reach lush grasses and a waterfall.
Darwin Falls is located on the west side of Death Valley National Park. It is far from the other attractions, so there are fewer visitors. However, it is worth a visit if you are staying in western Death Valley.
Hilmar Cheese Company Visitor Center
If you are looking for a place to enjoy a tasty lunch, you can stop by the Hilmar Cheese Company Visitor Center in Valley. You can eat inside the building or even order a take-out meal. The Cheese Company offers a wide variety of local and imported cheeses.
The Hilmar Cheese Company Visitor Center is a great place to learn about cheese production. The center opened in 1998 and offers free self-guided tours and group tours. Each tour includes hands-on exhibits, a movie, and a peek into the cheese manufacturing facility. There are also free samples and a gift shop where you can purchase cheese baskets and other cheese-themed nicknacks.
You can tour the factory and taste different types of cheese. The cheese factory is huge and produces more than two million pounds of cheese daily. Its main products include cheddar, Jack, and mozzarella cheeses. The company also produces cheeses for other brands.
Lava Beds National Monument
There are many different types of wildlife to observe in Lava Beds National Monument, and it is a great place for birdwatchers. You can spot various species of birds, including the western bluebird, the western meadowlark, and the great horned owl. It is also home to a variety of mammals, ranging from small kangaroo rats to mountain lions. Birdwatchers will also be able to watch migratory and year-round species of birds.
For visitors who love the outdoors, there are many hiking trails in the Lava Beds National Monument. The hikes range from a half-mile to ten miles, and they pass through many geologically exciting locations. While you can hike around the area on your own, you should bring water and snacks with you to prevent dehydration. There are also no pets allowed, so don’t bring them along. Make sure to leave the resident bats alone, too.
Napa Valley
The Napa Valley is a popular destination for wine lovers, and is home to some of California’s finest vintages. Wine tasting is a major priority for many visitors. The region is divided into 16 distinct AVAs. To get the best experience, focus on one or two regions per day.
Visitors to Napa Valley should not miss the scenic Robert Louis Stevenson State Park, which features soaring cliffs and pristine forests. The park also has some excellent hiking trails and is a great place to spend the afternoon. Other parks in Napa Valley include the Skyline Wilderness Park, which features lush greenery and a magnificent view of the region.
The Napa Valley has many hiking trails that can take visitors high above the valley and the surrounding area. One of these trails leads to Mount Saint Helena, the highest peak in the area. The trailhead is north of Calistoga, just after the Robert Louis Stevenson State Park. Taking the train is another popular option. The Napa Valley Wine Train offers tours through the area in vintage train cars.
Austin
If you’re planning a trip to the Valley, you’ll be pleased to know that it is a great destination for outdoor recreation. The area is also home to many beautiful hiking trails, and the city offers a number of events throughout the year. The Winter Carnival is a 10-day event that features life-sized ice sculptures, live music, fireworks, and a beer garden. The city also hosts a Mardi Gras parade every January.
West Virginia
If you’re looking for an outdoorsy vacation, you’ll love visiting West Virginia’s New River Gorge National Park. This scenic area is home to one of the continent’s oldest rivers and 70,000 acres of forestry. It’s a great place to go hiking or mountain biking, and the park also features plenty of seasonal fun.
A West Virginia history museum offers well-designed exhibits that take you on a journey through the state’s history. The museum also includes audio and video features that enhance the educational experience. The artifacts on display include everyday implements, as well as artifacts from historic events. Visitors can see the telescope used by George Washington, and items used by John Brown in Harpers Ferry. There is also a recreated settler’s cabin.
The West Virginia Botanic Gardens are a free, family-friendly, and dog-friendly place to spend a day. The park features a number of trails that are perfect for families with small children. There’s also a free museum in town called Tammerak, which features Appalachian crafts. Throughout the year, five resident artists give craft demonstrations.
