#196 California Citrus State Historic Park
California Citrus State Historic Park preserves one of the last remaining citrus groves in the Inland Empire, once known as the Orange Empire. The citrus industry of California was known as the 'second gold rush'. In the 1870's, the introduction of the navel orange created an extreme economic boom. The parallel boom of the railroad industry allowed the 'gold' to be shipped across the country and America went crazy. Though the boom today is only a fragment of its past, it is still a billion dollar industry in California. Park trails allow visitors a glimpse into the romanticized orange groves that made California famous.
#195 Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway rises 6,000 feet from the desert floor to the alpine forest through five diverse life zones. It is the largest rotating aerial tramway in the world. From the top to the bottom, the temperature can differ by up to 40 degrees making it the perfect escape during hot summers. On a clear day, the views stretch as far as 200 miles including Mount Charleston outside of Las Vegas, Nevada. Because of its engineering feat, it earned the nickname 'eight wonder of the world' when it opened in 1963.
#194 Newport Pier
Newport Pier has been an Orange County signature since 1888. It began as a shipping wharf connected to the famous California railway system. In the early 1900's, tourism flourished and Newport Beach became an oceanfront destination. The current wooden pier has been around since 1940 and continues to draw visitors to the Orange Coast.
#193 Broken Hill
Broken Hill is a beautiful overlook at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve in La Jolla. Eroded sandstone cliffs create a dramatic scene offering breathtaking views of the ocean below. A hiking loop trail leads down to the beach and makes for a great afternoon.
#192 El Capitan
El Capitan is one of the most iconic rock formations at Yosemite National Park. This granite monolith rises 3,000 feet straight up from the valley floor. One look will leave you breathless.
#191 Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park
Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park preserves one of the last remaining strands of Joshua Trees in Antelope Valley. Native Americans used the trees as a source of food and material. During the Spring, Joshua Trees contain gorgeous blooms and provide a striking sight.
#190 Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest
The Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest high in the alpine of the White Mountains contains the Earth's oldest living species. Bristlecone pines grow from 9,800 to 11,000 feet above sea level and are believed to be up to 5,000 years old. The oldest tree is estimated at 5,065 years old and unmarked to protect from vandals who set fire to the visitor center and adjacent trees in 2008. Beautiful trails wind through this majestic grove and provide peaceful solitude.
#189 Grant Park
Grant Park is one of the best views in Ventura. Sweeping views of the ocean, Channel Islands, Santa Monica Mountains and the city itself go on for miles. A cross has marked the top of the park since 1782 named 'Serra Cross' after Father Serra, the father of the mission system. It lies directly above Mission San Buneaventura. A new 2 mile trail makes a great hike to the top from City Hall though can also be reached by a short, winding drive.
#188 Spooner's Cove
Spooner's Cove in Montaña de Oro State Park is a stunning cove on the Central Coast. Alden Spooner moved here the the late 1800's and established a farm of dairy and hog. At its peak, his ranch contained 9,000 acres and 6 miles of beautiful coastline. He built a ranch house as well as several barns and warehouse to load ships to deliver. The original house still stand as well as the 100-year-old-flooring purchased from a Sears Roebuck and Co. Catalog. The inviting cove features beautiful sand as well as dramatic rock formations.
#187 Maritime Museum of San Diego
Since 1948, The Maritime Museum of San Diego has preserved and replicated some of the best sea vessels in the United States. Its 'star', the Star of India, is the oldest active ship in the World. The Berkeley was a ferryboat that operated between 1898 and 1958. It served between the San Francisco Bay and Oakland Pier. Yachts, pilots boats and submarines are also part of the collection.
