Our last and final day was going to prove to be a big one. As if this trip wasn't large enough, we planned the night before to try and visit an additional park on our way home. The day had yet again started before sunrise as we left the lodge and headed into Kings Canyon. The feeling of dawn is so amazing to me, I think what I love about it is the quiet and stillness you get from the early hours, and so few see it compared to sunset. We watched the sunrise and made its way through the deep canyon as we charged in the opposite direction. We took some time where we could and grabbed a moment in a place called Muir Rock. There is something unique to know you relaxed in the same area as John Muir. Giving the moment as much time as we could spare, we then pushed on exploring a waterfall and an old 4x4 track.
Before we left the Sierra Nevadas, we made our way to Grant Grove for one last hike through the sequoias before heading back west to civilization. Neither of us knew much about Pinnacles, but we knew we wouldn't be any closer for a long time. The park was nice and quiet since we were there in its offseason. With a ten hour drive ahead of us, we decided one last hike would be good for our cramped legs. We set forth and soon found ourselves in the middle of a cave system with endangered frogs and a bat sanctuary before heading up and climbing a series of rocks to gain a view of a visible portion of the San Andreas fault.
I can honestly say this, to date, is the longest and busiest road trip I've ever attempted. In total, we covered somewhere north 2,500 miles in 49 hours over the five days. It was worth by far, and I wouldn't have changed anything (other than wanting more time). I've gained an entirely new respect for the geography of California; it is some of the most beautiful lands the West has.
