Giant Sequoia Tree
Rapids in King's River
We left for kings Canyan and Sequoia National park in the morning of July 4th 2009 . I expected some show of celebration as it was the American Independence day but there was no such sign. Back in India, Independence Day means blaring loud speakers, people carrying the Indian flag, TV displaying the flag hoisting ceremony and the prime minister's or President 's speech at Red Fort New Delhi, all school children in their respective coloured school uniforms, teachers in white sarees, the air resounding with "Sare Jaha se Acchha Hindusetha hamara..." , "Hey Mere Vatan Ke Logo, Jara aank me Barlo Pani " etc... I missed all that as in USA people simply packed off in their cars to different holiday spots and set about enjoying the long week end.
It was a long drive and the temperature was climbing up. On the way Vidya bought some nice farm fresh Straw berries, Blue berries, Cherry tomato, huge cucumber and we ate all that happily, It was a long tedious drive but once we entered the Sequoia Park all our tiredness vanished. We saw the huge aged GIANT seqouia trees touching the skies and really it is a world wonder. Imagine trees as old as 1000 to 3000 years and this is the only place on earth they were found.
The drive inside is absolutely scenic with the King's river flowing deep down in the canyan and surrounded by mountains - In some places the river was in great fury with fearful rapids, while in some walking trails the river was absolutely calm like a lake. As with all tourist destinations in USA this park is well preserved with several walking trails. It is best to carry good food packed in bear resistant canisters and drinking water. There were scenic water falls, meadows, lots and lots of trees and trails leading to Giant Sequoia groves.
The photo link is here
Day 1 KIngs Canyan
Day 2 Sequoia National Park
