1. WebWhile both naturally occur ONLY in California, the Giant Sequoia is found in the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada. Strong legs. You can also camp in California's oldest state parkthe majestic Big Basin Redwoods State Parkwhich was established in 1902. East of the redwoods is Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the 48 contiguous states and part of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Its about one-eighth of the total US population. Winters are mild and never freezing. Pack your camping gear and start a road trip to the White Mountains. However, San Francisco and Oakland are not officially a part of Silicon Valley. 4. Here are the ranges you should know about and visit next. MC Cali the valley quail takes Barry the bald eagle around the United States's most populated state: California. TheSierra Nevadais a mountain range situated in Western United States, which includes Yosemite National Park. The Klamath Mountains are found in the far northwestern corner and are connected to the Northern and Southern Coastal Ranges. In 2021, there were about 15.8 million Hispanics in California, up from 14.0 million in 2010. 2023 Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Media, All Rights Reserved. Fun Facts The state's admission followed a period of rapid growth in the wake of the gold rush, as thousands of settlers flooded the region in the hopes of striking it rich. (The government website said so). Amazing balance. The highest peak in the world is Mount Everest, found out in the Himalayas, at more than 29,000 feet tall. Keep reading to learn more. The Californian part of the Cascades is home to Mount Shasta, a gorgeous summit that is the second tallest in the range after Washingtons Mount Rainier. Each has a distinct climate and topography, and each is the natural habitat for a plants and wildlife unique to that region. See answer (1) Best Answer. What's Up With Sausalito's Floating Homes and Houseboats? He described it as the fairest picture the whole world affords. In addition to this beauty, its also the 2nd deepest lake in the United States with a depth of over 1,645 feet. Californias Death Valley is North Americas hottest desert, with an average daily high in the month of June of 115.5F. Key Facts California is a U.S. state located on the west coast of North America, bordered by Oregon to the north, Nevada and Arizona to the east, and Mexico to The Sierra Nevadas most common nickname is the Range of Light. Here are seven exciting facts Here are 7 interesting facts about Mono County in California history: 1. Interesting Facts Not to be outdone by Spains mountain range, the Sierra Nevada in California doesnt have just the highest peak in California but also the ENTIRE contiguous United States. Part of it is in Sequoia National Park, so you can see the biggest tree and the biggest mountain all in one giant hike if youre up for it. Those delicious avocados that we enjoy so much on avocado toast most likely come from California. When Spanish explorers arrived in the 16th century, they are said to have been reminded of the fictional island and named the region after it. Mark Twains words said it best about Lake Tahoe. If you enjoy raisins, almonds or pistachios, there's a good chance your favorites were grown here. For thousands of years, hundreds of Native American tribes thrived on this land. Discover the Hidden Gems of San Carlos, California: A Family-Friendly Paradise, Embrace the Charm of San Lorenzo, California: Discover the Hidden Gem of the Bay Area, Discover the Charm of Burlingame, California: A Family-Friendly Gem in the Bay Area, 10 Must-Visit California Auto Racing Tracks and Events, 7 Must-Visit California Archery Ranges and Classes, The Benefits of Living in West Sacramento, California, Yucaipa, California: A Hidden Gem for Outdoor Lovers, The Charms of South Whittier: An Inviting Neighborhood, Fountain Valley, California: The Ultimate Destination for Families and Outdoor Enthusiasts, We're committed to helping you discover the places, people and businesses that make our state Golden. The Central Valley aquifers supply 20 percent of the nations groundwater. What we suggest is selected independently by the Kidadl team. Camp at the Grandview Campground, where you'll be surrounded by pinyon pines and juniper trees, for an unsurpassed star-gazing experience. They are the 320-mile Sacramento River in the north and the 350-mile San Joaquin River in the south. But the grizzly bear was once thriving in California and has been the official state animal since 1954. The range is growing by about a millimetre each year. Next time you crack open your fortune, think of the Golden State! Copyright 1996-2015 National Geographic Society, Copyright 2015-2023 National Geographic Partners, LLC. This expansive territory encompasses 17 separate ranges and offers a highly diverse climate. General Sherman within the Sequoia National Park is the biggest. The Central Valley is a low land region between the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the Coast Ranges. After gold was struck in 1848 at Sutters Mill in Coloma, more than 100,000 people, nicknamed forty-niners, rushed to California in 1849 to seek their fortunes. The region has the least human inhabitation but is home to plant species like Joshua tree, creosote, and pear cactus. The city stands geographically aloof from others with its diverse terrains, not just in terms of politics and history. Whitney (14,494-foot) to Death Valley (282 feet below sea level) in less than a day. The Bear Flag was created during the Bear Flag Revolt in June 1846, when a group of American settlers and adventurers seized control of the Mexican garrison at Sonoma. In Northern California, Sonoma County, a lush green valley has contributed the Windows wallpaper of rolling green meadows and blue skies. The State Tree is the California Redwood Tree, The Official Motto of California is Eureka. Regardless of its origin, the name California has come to be closely associated with the American West and is now synonymous with the state of California. The first successful steam-powered vessel in California made Youll find the smallest desert in North America here, the Mojave Desert. Kidadl cannot accept liability for the execution of these ideas, and parental supervision is advised at all times, as safety is paramount. From lino cutting to surfing to childrens mental health, their hobbies and interests range far and wide. If its the famed fortune cookie, youre not alone. The Golden Gate Bridge is a suspension bridge which links San Francisco to Marin County. Around 68% of Californias population lives in the coastal region and 80% of the states economy. The rebels then raised a makeshift flag featuring a bear and a star, which became known as the Bear Flag, and declared the establishment of the California Republic. It was to be an upscale development called Hollywoodland and the sign used to have the word land on it. Copy. He began writing online in 2010, offering information in scientific, cultural and practical topics. Mount Whitney, the highest point, can be located here. Traverse along 360 miles of the Bigfoot Trail or, through three wilderness areas to explore the biodiversity of this unsung region. No article about California would be complete without a section about Los Angeles, the center of Hollywood. The state on the West Coast of the United States is While in the Coast Ranges, admire the stunning views overlooking the California coastline as you smell the sweet scent of wildflowers. The Sierras extend north to the Cascades, which feature Mt. CALIFORNIA Linda Bair, Dreamstime (bear); Natureniche, iStockphoto (quail); Lokibaho, iStockphoto (poppy); Micha Klootwijk, Dreamstime (quarter). We strive to recommend the very best things that are suggested by our community and are things we would do ourselves - our aim is to be the trusted friend to parents. The Coastal Ranges are followed by the Transverse Ranges and the Peninsular Ranges, which extend all the way to the Baja California Peninsula. Interesting Facts The name California comes from a 16th-century Spanish novel that describes a mythical paradise called California. 2. California Speaking of trees, it would make sense that the sequoias are the official tree, but it is the California redwood tree. In addition to the Sierras and the Coastal Range, the state has several smaller ranges, including the Siskiyou Range near the Oregon border and the Tehachapi Mountains in the south. 2023 California.com All Rights Reserved, California's mountain ranges make the landscape one of the most diverse in the U.S. The average daily temperature can swing between 70-80F (21-26 C), increasing during acute summers. 7 Interesting Facts About Nevada County, California The region is home to several state and national parks, including Yosemite National Park, and has played an important role in the history of California. But is California all about summer fun? So they have the biggest quakes, but did you also know that they have the biggest trees? Unauthorized use is prohibited. Mono County, located on the eastern side of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, is no exception. After digging deeper I learned that San Bernardino County is actually the largest county in the world. The Hyperion stands at a whopping 379.7 feet tall but sadly, you can no longer get near it. Our goal is to make science relevant and fun for everyone. Besides being colder, the northern coast receives more rainfall, which creates the ideal conditions for coastal redwoods. Wiki User. If the climb up to the San Jacinto Peak doesn't satisfy your hiking hunger, travel to Mount Lagunalocated an hour east of San Diegoand enjoy the drastic change in the climate. The Coast, the Central Valley, the Deserts, and the Mountains are Californias four major geographical regions. Venture off on the northern side for a maritime climate with high fog levels, or experience a desert-like climate on the eastern slopes bordering the Central Valley. When will it happen? In 1955, Disneyland opened in Anaheim, California. Keen eyesight. Interesting facts about mountains | Just Fun Facts The region is home to several state and national parks, including Yosemite National Park, and has played an important role in the history of California. The mountains include temperate rain forest a biome unique to the area. Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Mount Whitney is the tallest mountain in the contiguous United States and obviously, it is Californias highest point. California Maps & Facts - World Atlas Mojave Desert, arid region of southeastern California and portions of Nevada, Arizona, and Utah, U.S. Anyone using the information provided by Kidadl does so at their own risk and we can not accept liability if things go wrong. High altitude areas experience summers, fall colors, and cold-snowy winters followed by enthralling springs. The largest county in California just so happens to be the largest county in the country. What does it mean to be a California.com Recommended Business? For more about waterfall options that cascade down from the High Sierra, check out our Waterfall season is here post. This also makes Death Valley the lowest national park in the world. It was funded in 1915 and finished in 1938. For something more romantic, plan a getaway to Lake Tahoes most underrated towns and explore the shores of North Americas deepest lake. The state is the top U.S. producer of lemons, apricots, avocados, dates, figs, grapes, kiwi, nectarines, peaches, raspberries, strawberries, and many others. Typically, men hunted and fished while women and children collected plant foods and small game. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor. California has a Mediterranean climate, unlike other counterparts of America. 2. Our recommended businesses are top-quality and are committed to their communities. The lowest reaches of the sparkling gem of the Sierra can be found on the northern shore within Crystal Bay. Theyre a clear representation of the city and have been officially designated a moving national historic landmark. Looking to book your next trip? Running north-south from SoCal, the Peninsular Ranges encompass the Santa Ana Mountains, Temescal Mountains, Perris Block, San Jacinto Mountains, and Laguna Mountains (which stretch to the southernmost tip of the Baja California Peninsula). Older Post Sadly grizzly bears were tracked and hunted after the California Gold Rush brought a higher population to the area and the last bear was shot in 1922. Death Valley is the lowest point and has one of Earths hottest temperatures. The geographical diversity within its borders, arguably unmatched by any other state, is typified by its four well-defined regions. The novel tells the story of a mythical island called California. Whats your favorite part of your Chinese take-out meal? Youll discover uncountable activities and unforgettable adventures. With an area of 18,000 sq mi (46,619 sq km), Central Valley is the smallest of all four regions. and take it to the Mountain Station; from here, it's only a 5.5-mile hike to reach the San Jacinto Peak. Fun Facts The following is a list of 10 geographic facts to know about Baja California: It is believed that people first settled on the Baja Peninsula around 1,000 years ago and that the region was dominated by a few Indigenous groups. The Central Valley and the wine-growing Napa Valley have big names for farming productivity. Please note: prices are correct and items are available at the time the article was published. Here are seven interesting facts about Siskiyou County in California history that you may not have known. Interesting Facts Its no secret that California has its fair share of earthquakes. Thats the largest population of any state, and its about 10 million more than the next second largest (Texas). Klamath Mountains - Wikipedia Regardless of your ideal climate, California can keep up with what youre looking for. Interesting Facts When you buy through the links on our site we may earn a commission. These rivers are confluent to form a water-transit hub of the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta System known for its spectacular biodiversity. Mono Lake, one of the county's most famous landmarks, was formed over 760,000 years ago. WebCalifornia is divided into four natural regions. Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Taking advantage of the region's moderate climate, farmers can even grow olives. California is also home to the worlds tallest tree. Now that youve learned a little more about the snowy range, its time to explore this range for yourself. Tank up before you drive there. California became a U.S. state on March 4, 1850. California's coast is home to seals, sea lions and otters, and humpback and blue whales are yearly visitors to the deep submarine canyons of Monterey Bay on the Central Coast. Sure, you can surf and swim in California, but you can also hike through dense forests, climb tall mountains, and even ski or snowboard. Plants include the Joshua tree, the creosote plant, the Mojave yucca and the prickly pear cactus. Interesting Facts Sequoias and giant Redwoods are often referred to interchangeably even though they are VERY different species of tree. Visit Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park in the Santa Cruz Mountain Range to observe 1,500-year-old coast redwoods along the Redwood Grove Trail. The Sierra Nevada region incorporates more than 25% of Californias entire land area. And search the skies for a sight of bald eagles, California condors, and California quails, the state bird. It is home to giant sequoia trees, which grow up to heights of 7,000 feet. By this, we mean that there are so many things that originated in California. They have nine! The average temperature in Crescent City near the Oregon border is almost 52 degrees Fahrenheit, while in San Diego, it's close to 64 degrees. WebFast Facts History. Youve seen them in movies and commercials, and even on that family favorite sitcom, Full House. The first successful steam-powered vessel in California made The range is home to over 58 mountains, so its difficult to say where your voyage in this range should begin. The shape of the mountains are influenced by the shifting of tectonic plates beneath the surface of the Earth. Or, observe fascinating rock formations and stunning scenery just east of San Francisco by hiking through the Diablo Range, found in Mount Diablo State Park. Hike the Seven Lakes Basin Trail in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest for panoramic views of Mount Shasta, Mount Eddy, and the Trinity Alps. - Death Valley has a record high temperature of 134 degrees.-Many cowboy movies have been filmed in the California deserts. span west to east from the coast, passing through Santa Barbara. Some of these stubby conifers are estimated to be over 4,000 years old, making them among the world's oldest living trees. These cable cars make up the first moving landmark in the United States. California is home to almost40 million people. Here at Kidadl, we have carefully created many interesting family-friendly facts for everyone to enjoy! Its known for its beaches in San Diego, Hollywood in Los Angeles, the bright and bustling city of San Francisco, and the lush national parks. Go check out the forest and get ready to feel small. In fact, Death Valley in the Mojave Desert, which is the lowest point in the continental United States, experiences some of the hottest temperatures on Earth. Gold discovery: Nevada County played an important role in the California Gold Rush of the mid-1800s. We already talked about Californias climate diversity, but did you know that its also home to both the highest and lowest points in the mainland United States? Before reaching California, the Cascade Range makes its way through southern British Columbia, Washington, and Oregon. a look at the California flag you will see that it features a grizzly bear. 60% of Californias total annual precipitation in the form of rain and snow, falls in the Sierra Nevada. WebIn one of its valleys along the California border, youll find Lake Tahoe, North Americas largest alpine lake. Being a year-round destination, California welcomes tourists all across the globe with its mild and moderate climatic conditions conducive for sightseeing. Each episode is an animated rap music video focusing on the big cities, history, landmarks, and significant geographical areas of each state. Thanks for signing up. Californias mountains include many of the highest peaks in the country, including Mount Whitney, the highest summit in the contiguous United States. Plus, its cable car system is the last manually operated cable car system in the world. The non-Hispanic White population, the next largest group in California, declined from 15.0 million to 13.4 million during this time, reflecting a broader national trend. It has Hollywood glamor and an abundance of pet dogs. You may also opt to. And its not just fruitCalifornia leads the nation in production of almonds, pistachios, and walnuts. The back lots of Los Angeles studios and the diverse landscape of California have doubled for locations around the world. Travel southeast to the 25,000-square-mile Mojave Desert. California is kind of like an entire world in one state. If you're looking for mountains, California has them. Baja, California Facts. In 1858, a massive earthquake rocked the city of San Jose, California on January 9th. His writing covers science, math and home improvement and design, as well as religion and the oriental healing arts. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The range stretches from north to the Cascades that feature extinct volcanic marvels of Mount Lassen and Mount Shasta. The lush forests of the Klamath Mountains will send you to seventh heaven. The valley is bounded on the west by the Panamint Range and Nevertheless, this range is the biggest of all four regions. We try our very best, but cannot guarantee perfection. You can also see Sequoias in Mariposa Grove of Yosemite National Park. Interesting Facts California has three major deserts, the Great Basin, Colorado, and Mojave, in the states southeastern part. The northern coastal areas have more wet and foggy climatic conditions than the rest of the regions. San Juan Capistrano is the oldest community in Orange County, dating back to 1776. The tranquility and freedom found in the forests and valleys of these world-renown mountains are much more valuable than any gold and glory. Many animal species are in decline, however. Add a map of the four regions of California. California is the most populous state in the United States and, with a total area of 158,706 square miles, it's the third largest state after Alaska and Texas. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine, the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field. The Mojave Desert occupies more than 25,000 square miles (65,000 square km) and joins the Sonoran, Great Basin, and Chihuahuan deserts in forming the North American Desert. And there are said to be only 50 Sierra Nevada Red Foxes remaining. The Hollywood Sign was originally created to advertise a housing development in 1923. Coyotes are members of the Canidae family and share a lot of the same traits as their relatives: wolves, dogs, foxes, and jackalsanother significant part of Wildlife in California. The Klamath range is very unusual geologically, as the subduction zone at the Western edge of North Americas tectonic plate has significantly deformed the rocks in this region over millions of years. a scenic drive through the Shasta-Cascade, Head to the San Bernardino National Forest, take a beautiful drive on the Angeles Crest Highway, Limit the Use of Sensitive Personal Information. Southern California offers perfect climate for growing avocados and they are in season year-round. The California Mountain Region takes up about half of California. Kidadl has a number of affiliate partners that we work with including Amazon. 7 Interesting Facts About Mono County, California The desert climate isn't hospitable, and few people live there. Known as the "Fort Tejon earthquake," it was one of the largest earthquakes to ever hit California, and caused significant damage to buildings and infrastructure throughout the region. By joining Kidadl you agree to Kidadls Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receiving marketing communications from Kidadl. Head to the San Bernardino National Forest to hike the Old Greybackalso known as San Gorgonio MountainSouthern Californias highest peak. Rainn Wilson Shares Why We Need a Spiritual Revolution, California's 11 Most Affordable Places to Live. Here are seven interesting facts about Tuolumne County's history: 1. 15% of the Sierra Nevada is listed as designated conservation land. After reading about the Central Valley Region, Sierra Nevada region, San Francisco Bay, West Coast, Mountain Region, and Desert Region, check out facts about four seasons in the USA and palm trees native to California here on Kidadl. In Spanish, the term means snow-covered mountain range. How could such a fitting name come to be? It is renowned for its picturesque vineyard landscapes, high-end wineries, and excellent wine-tasting events. Death Valley in California is the hottest, driest and lowest of all the national parks in the United States. Since then about 750 million people have visited the park. A Spanish soldier by the name of Pedro Font headed east and saw a range of high snowy mountains to the East. 1. The non-Hispanic White population, the next largest group in California, declined from 15.0 million to 13.4 million during this time, reflecting a broader national trend. They were actually createdin California. Plan a trip to the marvelous Peninsular Ranges and prepare yourself for a transcendental experience. Read about Mount Whitney by Jenna of UpAndAwayMag (above photo). These rivers meet at a break in the Coastal Range and empty into the northern part of San Francisco Bay. All rights reserved. Archaeological excavations place theMartis peopleof Paleo-Indians in the Sierra Nevada during the period of3,000 BCE to around 500 CE. Others say that they were created to revitalize Chinatown in San Francisco. San Francisco actually has a lot going on when it comes to cool facts about California. More movies have been filmed in California than any other state. WebCalifornia mountain regions were formed millions of years ago during major geologic movements, though the earth continues to move even inches per day in some parts of Alex Silgalis is an outdoors travel writer who enjoys snowboarding, mountain biking, or having a cold one from a local mountain brewery. facts Inland, the temperature is more predictable with the least effect of ocean winds. Eastern Sierra Lake Tahoe Southern Sierra Western Sierra. More than 20,000 years ago, the first people arrived in what is now California. California is the home of skateboards, Barbie dolls, arcade games, and McDonalds.