28 Oct, 2009
Calaveras Big Trees State Park Celebrates in Big Ways
Posted by: Beach Reporter In: california| travel
When you host a celebration at Calaveras Big Trees State Park not far from Murphys, California, expect the celebration to be big as you find yourself surrounded by some of the biggest trees in the world.
Calaveras Big Trees State Park was on a “hit” list for closure when the governor of California looked for ways to save money during the recent efforts to balance the state’s budget deficit.
When a list of state park closures and winter closures was released on Oct. 17, 2009, Big Trees State Park was not to be found. One of the most beautiful and most well attended parks also has one of the best organized volunteer armies to help run operations and save money for the state. It’s truly a win-win. Hats are off to those who have worked tirelessly to bring this park’s beauty and joy to the public. The volunteers exemplify what every California State Park would ideally benefit from and may, one day, come to realize is needed–volunteerism. Volunteers have often take over the guardianship of parks and run them better than paid workers.
The park is celebrating the magnificence of these beautiful giants with its annual Calaveras Big Trees Association Holiday Open House and Sale. (Big Trees State Park) —Calaveras Big Trees Association (CBTA) will hold its Annual Holiday Open House and Sale from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, November 21, and Sunday, November 22, 2009, at the Visitor Center at Calaveras Big Trees State Park. Mention the Open House at the Park Entrance and receive a free half- hour pass to the park.
As a way of thanking the community for its ongoing support of the park, nearly everything in the Visitor Center is discounted by 20 percent during the special event. Shop for unique holiday gifts for everyone on your list in a one-of-a-kind location. Refreshments will be served. Sale proceeds support the park’s interpretive programs. For further information, please call Tami at the Visitor Center at (209) 795-3840.
Home to a forest of Sierra redwood trees, the largest trees in the world (often between 250 and 300 feet tall, with diameters in excess of 30 feet near the ground,) the largest redwood in Calaveras Big Trees State Park is the Louis Agassiz tree. It is located in the South Grove, standing 250 feet tall, and over 25 feet in diameter. The largest tree in the world is the General Grant tree, located in Sequoia-Kings Canyon National Park It stands 271 feet tall and is 28 feet in diameter at six feet above the ground. While both parks are must-see attractions, the fall foliage at Calaveras Big Trees SP is happening. Read more
