Foresthill Bridge

The Foresthill Bridge (aka Auburn-Foresthill Bridge & Auburn Bridge) is the tallest bridge in California towering 730-feet over the North Fork American River in Placer County and the Sierra Nevada foothills
The Foresthill Bridge (aka Auburn-Foresthill Bridge & Auburn Bridge) is the tallest bridge in California towering 730-feet over the North Fork American River in Placer County and the Sierra Nevada foothills
The Sierra Nevada mountains range is host to a stunning range of natural diversity. With the ocean to the west, the desert to the east, and glacial mountaintops in between, there are new surprises to be encountered with each change in ecosystem. At about 4,700 feet in elevation and just off Alpine State Highway is a collection of giants that can grow to 325 feet tall and 33 feet wide - some as old as 2,000 years. Despite a turbulent, tragic, and occasionally uncertain history, these giants are now protected for all to enjoy in the Calaveras Big Trees State Park.
I thought my directions were wrong when we turned up a steep incline and wandered down a rough but clearly residential road. I don't expect historic sites to be flanked by rural homes with horses and chicken coops. Yet, standing across the street from the accusatory glare of a neighboring donkey is the Mark Twain Cabin.
The California foothills are full to bursting with beautiful historic towns but Murphys takes a place of special prominence. The "Queen of the Sierra" is quintessentially Californian. It traces its origins to the California Gold Rush but retains its relevance thanks to its proximity to the outdoor draws of Calaveras Big Trees State Park and Bear Valley Ski Resort while surrounded by vineyards. Over two dozen wine tasting rooms line the main street. While the rest of the world visits Napa and Sonoma, Californians in the know visit Murphys and other neighboring appellations .
No Hands Bridge off highway 49 is a hiking destination crossing the North Fork of the American River in the California's Auburn State Recreation Area.
The vastness of the United States frontier has made road trips a classic piece of Americana. It is the ultimate way to the explore the states. But that said, there are so many routes to take. In celebration of a new decade and the 50th birthday of our Avion, we are sharing 20 road trips—from half day excursions to multi-day epic quests—that you should add to your bucket list.