Sequoia is the oldest national park in California—and it's among the least visited. In a remote setting at the park's southern tip, Mineral King is a subalpine valley that will absolutely knock your boots off. We recommend base camping in the rustic cabins at Silver City Resort (which is neither a city nor a resort). You'll drive 25 miles up a snaky road, which is listed in the National Historic Register, deep into the heart of the southern Sierra. From there the serrated peaks and high-alpine lakes of Mineral King await. While day hikes around here are not for the faint of heart—many range between 7 and 10 miles, with altitude gains of 1,700 to 2,200 feet—they're undoubtedly worth the effort. The 3.4-mile (one way) trail to Eagle Lake will reward you with unimpeded views of granite peaks shooting from the timberline; then cool off with a swim across the crisp, clear waters to a tiny island in the middle of the lake. Less ambitious hikers can wander the Farewell Gap Trail through gentler, wildflower-laden terrain in the Mineral King Valley, or relax by Mineral King Stream with a good book. At day's end, decompress with a home-cooked meal at Silver City's onsite restaurant, and be sure to have a whopping slice of its Fruits of the Forest pie. We couldn't keep the secret any longer: escape the city and live like a king!


Silver City offers three levels of cabins: Swiss Chalet, Comfy, and Rustic. Your best bet for a stay this summer is in a Rustic cabin. These come furnished with beds, basic camp kitchens, kerosene lamps, and fireplaces. Rates start at $85 per night. For more information about Silver City Resort and directions, click here, or call 559-561-3223.

Topic 1 photo courtesy of Edie.