Do you ever get that travel bug? It just keeps nagging at you until you take the itch on.
Well, if you live in Selma, California, you are really fortunate because you have a great choice for destination tripping.
In fact, day-tripping from Selma, California to discover great forests and parks is sure to provide a day filled with great scenery and outdoor activity.
Each of the destinations I will share with you offers plenty of time in the great outdoors and are photo-tastic.
Further, the great forests and parks are less than a 3-hour drive from Selma, California, relieving the ‘itch’ to feel like you are far away, but not too far.
Ready?
Buckle up those seat belts it’s time to uncover those great forests and parks close to Selma, California.
Day Tripping From Selma California To Discover Great Forests and Parks
While I am aware that the Government shutdown is affecting many of the National Forest and Parks, the shutdown can not go on forever.
My list is to help you start planning where to go and what to do.
It’s nice to have a go-to list so you can dash out at the last minute.
I keep a list of places so when I get that minute, that itch… I go!
The everyday grind is just that, every day.
When you are ready to rest, and own the day, and realize that life moves fast, it’s time for a Day Trip.
Day trips are nice because the distance you drive, allows you to clear your mind.
Suddenly you are looking forward to what you might see and find.
State Parks and Forests are great getaways because often, other than a small fee to gain entrance to the park or for parking you have a relatively low budget getaway.
Now, you can always opt to stay in the parks in cabins, or nearby hotels, and I will share that info too. Let’ get adventuring!
The Stanislaus National Forest
Why would someone from Selma drive to and visit Stanislaus National Forest?
Get in those vehicles and drive. When navigating the area, and depending on the season a 4WD will be your best friend.
However, if you like to do bucket-listing, there’s another reason to go.
Visiting the Oldest National Forest can get checked right off your list.
Imagine over 898,000 acres of protected National Forest land.
Then you learn that the Stanislaus National Forest is the oldest national forest and it covers over 4 different counties in the mountains of the Sierra Nevada.
Well, that on its own is impressive, but there’s more than just this information that makes the Stanislaus National Forest the perfect day trip from Selma.
Did you know that the Sonora Pass goes through the Stanislaus National Forest?
Things to Know
Make a stop at the Visitor’s Center. Lots of great info there. Hiking is incredible in the area.
From natural lakes to hiking paths, there’s no end to options and best yet, something for every skill level in.
If you love kayaking, biking, camping, snow sports (skiing to snowmobile riding) it’s all here.
In fact, it would take years to find all the trails for hiking and biking, it’s huge fun!
Look at the rock formations and be aware of wildlife, there’s lots of it to watch.
There are even snow parks, that cost a small admission but the fun to be had there outweighs the mini fees. Sledding, skiing, and snowmobiling should be on your FUN checklist.
Insider Tip: Go to Big Trees park to see the incredible Redwood Trees, it’s awesome!
Lodging
Stay close and enjoy the Holiday Inn Express or at Murphy’s Suites, each about 6 miles from Pines Hathaway!
You can camp in cabins or haul your RV, it’s your choice and if you want it to be a day trip you may not be lodging.
Do consider that outdoor activity will make you tired, so plan accordingly.
Insider Tip: Make sure to check out Alpine Lake.
Hiking
For those that love a good hike, try Kennedy Meadows, as the forest is incredible.
Speaking of hiking, don’t forget snowshoeing, it’s a great option and what about cross country skiing? Yep!
Less Frequented than Yosemite and So…..
Inyo National Park
Next stop, Inyo National Park. It’s just about a one hour drive from Selma to here, and so much less frequented than Yosemite.
From views for every season to lakes and mountains, this is America. Gorgeous by day and by night!
Interesting Insider’s Tips: Look for Indian cave paintings, seek out lava tubes (from the prehistoric era), and find the hot springs!
There’s even more history than I am mentioning but this is a great starting point.
Talk to people while you are there, you will learn so much more.
Check out Mono Lake and look for wild roaming horses.
Insider’s Tip: Stop by a Ranger’s station and check the condition of trails before hiking!
LOVE FISHING?
Try out Clark Lake and Gem Lake, it’s ready and waiting for you and your rod!
VEHICLES AND PARKS
You can get there in any vehicle, but park driving often goes more smoothly in a 4WD vehicle, a Jeep or a Truck.
Also, you can stow your gear easily in these vehicles that you might need for your day trips.
If you don’t have a 4WD Vehicles, Jeeps or Trucks, check out your local dealership to buy one!
Fun is just a few hours away, it’s time to take a break from work and get out there and adventure.
