California Tourism 2007 Competition Winners Story
Coastal redwoods line the highway outside Mendocino, a small town north of San Francisco
View of Lake Tahoe
View of Bridal Veil Falls at Yosemite National Park
Snoe shoeing in Sequoia National Park
In 2007, Jo Tregonning of Baldivis Western Australia, was the registered site coordinator of the Baldivis Children's Forest, an award winning project that has grown from a single schools tree planting day to a year round project.
As a National Tree Day site coordinator, Jo was eligible to enter
the California Tourism Site Coordinator's competition. Her winning
entry won her a one-week adventure for two, exploring the diverse and
natural wonders that California has to offer.
Jo's California adventure began in San Francisco where she
and her husband Rob, toured the infamous former island prison Alcatraz,
enjoyed a scenic bike ride over the Golden Gate Bridge, stood in awe of
the giant coastal redwoods at Muir Woods and relaxed with a glass of
wine at one of the many vineyards at nearby Sonoma Valley.
From San Francisco, Jo and Rob travelled to Lake Tahoe. Located
on the California/Nevada border, Tahoe is a popular destination for
outdoor enthusiasts due to its year round natural beauty. Thick
snow-cover provided Jo and Rob with an opportunity to experience
Tahoe's amazing natural surrounds while revelling in the thrill of the
slopes.
Yosemite National Park, one of the United States' oldest and most recognised National Parks was the couple's next destination. Yosemite is known for its spectacular cliffs, waterfalls, clear streams and Giant Sequoia Trees - the largest trees in the world. Staying at the historic Ahwahnee Hotel (circa. 1927), Jo and Rob experienced majestic surroundings while enjoying fine dining in front of roaring fires.
Passing through Oakhurst, Jo and Rob made their way to Sequoia National Park to witness more of the giant Sequoia trees. "Standing in the silence of a snow covered meadow ringed by these giants is awe-inspiring. Blanketed in snow the landscape appeared devoid of features and difficult to navigate however it was a beautiful hike and well worth the effort," says Jo.
A California adventure would not be complete without a visit to Los Angeles. Jo and Rob spent their final four days amongst the people, skyscrapers and shops that make LA a unique buzzing metropolis. After a visit to Hollywood it was time for Jo and Rob to make their way back home.
If you would like the opportunity to experience these natural wonders, register a site for National Tree Day and you could be on your way to California. See our California Tourism Competition Page for more details.
