Three Rivers vacation rentals

Nestled in the oak-studded foothills of the Sierra Nevadas is Three Rivers — a California town that has long been defined by its proximity to Sequoia National Park. Sequoia’s Ash Mountain Entrance, which leads to the Mineral King area of the park, lies just 10 minutes to the northeast of Three Rivers. Even the town’s name originates in Sequoia, where three forks of the Kaweah River begin their journey as Sierra snowmelt.

The striking views of the Sierras and surrounding chaparral have inspired many artists over the years, so you’ll find more than a few Three Rivers studios and galleries showcasing the work of California artists. There’s even a monthly First Saturday food and art market, where you can find handwoven scarves, biodegradable soaps, tie-dyed fabrics, and more. Beneath all the civic life of the town is a passion for life lived outdoors — on the rivers, on Lake Kaweah, and across the dusty trails that thread through the Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park, which is just an hour’s drive away.

Both Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park are open year-round, but they’re best enjoyed when the California weather is at its most inviting — in spring, summer, and fall. When temperatures warm up in spring, the melting snow creates faster, wilder rivers, perfect for whitewater rafting on the Kaweah River. That same snowmelt feeds nearby Lake Kaweah, which fills up enough for boating, fishing, and swimming in May and June. The annual Redbud Arts and Crafts Festival — a weekend celebration of art, music, and food — also takes place in May. For hikers taking on the famous John Muir Trail, July through September is the best time to lace up those boots and hit the road, avoiding the substantial snow that usually arrives in October. Winter in Three Rivers tends to be cold and snowy, so you can enjoy the outdoors on snowshoes and skis. Beware, though: Winter storms can sometimes close trails or roads going into the park.

Three Rivers Historical Museum

A statue of folk hero Paul Bunyan that was carved from a single sequoia tree guards the entrance to the Three Rivers Historical Museum. Inside the museum, you will find exhibits detailing the creation of this statue, information about the land’s Native American inhabitants, as well as an interesting story of how the Mineral King region of the Sequoia National Park almost became a ski resort.

Lake Kaweah

When this reservoir fills in May and June, there’s no better place to go for a swim. The lake is also popular for fishing, with the most common catches being largemouth bass, bluegill, and rainbow trout. Boat rentals and fishing gear can easily be found at the nearby Kaweah Marina. During the other months, when the lake is relatively empty of swimmers and boats, you can take advantage of the numerous picnic tables and barbecue grills available. The one-mile trail from Slick Rock to Cobble Knoll, just west of the lake, offers a quiet walk where you can spot warblers in the spring and California quail in the winter.

Foothills Visitor Center

The Foothills Visitor Center is a strong starting point for any expedition into Sequoia National Park. Located just five minutes away by car from the Ash Mountain Entrance, the center offers trip-planning help, trail maps, and the latest information on park conditions. The mini-museum has exhibits on the ecology and human history of the foothills, and you can even inquire about free ranger-led activities during the summer months.