Brand USA - Northern California - Giant Trees and Ancient Forests

It is certainly possible to walk along the famous hilly streets of San Francisco, but why not instead take one of the famous trams? You will rest your legs and admire the view while enjoying one of the city's most unique experiences. Spend some time at Fisherman's Wharf, a seaside neighborhood and tourist destination that includes seafood restaurants, Pier 39 with sea lions, Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, historic ships, and other attractions. Climb up to Telegraph Hill to enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the top of Coit Tower and walk down the winding Lombard Street. If the weather permits, take part in a free walking tour of the Golden Gate Bridge. Taste delicious ethnic cuisine in some of the city's diverse neighborhoods, including Chinatown, the largest outside of Asia.,

Fifteen miles (24 km) north of the city, Muir Woods National Monument is literally a monument to trees, specifically an ancient forest of coastal redwoods that are between 600 and 800 years old and reach heights of about 250 feet (76 meters). There are dozens of trails, but try the six-mile (10 km) one that goes through Pinchot Grove and Cathedral Grove and follows the Redwood Creek. Plan your visit for a weekday and arrive early in the morning to experience the forest at its most magical and peaceful. Muir Woods is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, which spans three counties in the San Francisco Bay area. Take a boat tour or explore by bike starting from Sausalito. Extend your day and head further north to visit the Point Reyes National Seashore peninsula, where you can hike in the hills or along the beach. Keep your eyes open for whales and gray seals.,

You travel through Northern California towards Lassen Volcanic National Park, whose predominant feature is Lassen Peak. Hot springs, boiling fumaroles, and mud pots contribute to creating this unique landscape. Walk through the Devastated Area and observe the remains of past eruptions. The 150 miles (241 km) of trails allow you to hike through lush forests and around crystal-clear lakes, for a unique experience.,

Through Lassen Volcanic National Park and ancient forests, follow the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail to Lake Tahoe. Discover the lake's activities, explore the numerous hiking or biking trails, or simply enjoy the breathtaking scenery of this wild area on the border between California and Nevada.,

Through the Sierra Nevada, you can reach Yosemite National Park, where giant sequoia trees dominate the wild natural landscape that includes waterfalls, such as the 620-foot (189-meter) Bridalveil Falls, and the granite cliffs of Half Dome and El Capitan. The Yosemite Village community offers the opportunity to visit the Ansel Adams Gallery, a gallery that exhibits landscape photographs, and the Yosemite Museum. All levels of trails make this area a paradise for hikers and bikers, and you may want to stay longer to fully explore the area.,

Free day,

Take advantage of your extra time in San Francisco to take a boat to Alcatraz Island in the San Francisco Bay and get a close look at the former federal penitentiary, part of the National Park Service, as well as the marine wildlife, seabird colonies, and historic buildings. Alternatively, visit the Presidio of San Francisco, a former US military fort now part of the Golden Gate Recreation Area, with trails, restaurants, museums, and special events.,