10 Epic Adventures Every Northern Californian Must Take Before They Die

There's no better way to feel like a true adventurer than by visiting Moaning Caverns Adventure Park in Calaveras County. Located in the beautiful Sierra Nevada foothills, you'll get the very best view of the area as you zip line through the trees. The park contains tons of family activities on the ground for those who want to pass on the zip lining adrenaline rush. Here you can learn how to gold plan, stroll through the Zen garden, or explore the underground tunnels. This place really has it all. Click here for directions and more information.

This may be one of the newer national landmarks in California since it was established in 2012 but these amazing caverns have been around for millions of years. Lake Shasta is a popular spot during the spring and summer, but few know to venture beneath the lake and explore these stunning caverns. Made entirely of limestone, the formations looks otherworldly. Walking through these wondrous caverns is something every Northern Californian should do at least once. Click here for directions and more information.

Few people know that you can go on a real African safari right here in California. Safari West in Santa Rosa allows their guests to feel like they've been transported to the real African Serengeti. You'll take a guided tour through the 100-acre park to see all sorts of wildlife including giraffes, wildebeests, and rhinos. This is truly an experience you'll never forget. Click here for directions and more information.

Northern California is full of odd geologic wonders but few are as breathtaking as Castle Crags State Park. The stunning granite formations within the park are the products of millions of years worth of geologic movement. It's a splendid sight to see up close and in person. With so many recreational opportunities, the park is an outdoorsman's paradise. Click here for directions and more information.

There's really nothing as relaxing as going out and soaking in a beautiful natural hot spring. Sierra Hot Springs boasts some of the most stunning springs in California. The secluded nature of the springs among 700 acres of bordering forests makes this the perfect place to get away from it all. There are even onsite accommodations for overnight stays if you find you just can't leave. Click here for directions and more information.

Northern California is just as much train country as it is wine country and you truly haven't lived until you've experienced a beautiful train like this. The California Western Railroad (also known as the Skunk Train) runs from Fort Bragg to Willits. You'll be blown away by the views as the train makes its journey through some of the most scenic mountain landscapes. Click here for directions and more information.

Every Californian you should experience the unparalleled beauty of our state's giant trees. You can do exactly that at Calaveras Big Tree State Park which contains two groves of giant sequoia trees that are absolutely stunning. Considered the longest running tourist destination in California since it was established in 1852, the park is full of giant, beautiful trees of all shapes and sizes. There are various interpretive trails that run through the park that show off the absolute best parts. Click here for directions and more information.

Here is another epic adventure to be had near the stunning Shasta Lake. Little Backbone Creek requires a small hike to get to it, but you won't regret making the small effort once you see it. The creek is simply idyllic. Tucked away in a secluded area of the lake's surrounding wilderness, you'll feel like you've stumbled onto a hidden paradise. The creek's blue-green waters among the red rocks is a sight you've got to see with your own eyes. The little waterfall even creates a natural slide into the pool below which is popular among swimmers in the warmer months. Click here for directions and more information.

Black Sands Beach is a stunning piece of coastline in the Kings Range National Conservation Area. The beach is located along The Lost Coast Trail, tucked away behind towering redwood trees. The remote beach consists of 3.5 miles of dark sand which creates a purely magical atmosphere along the breathtaking coast. There really are no words to describe the utter glory of this hidden beach and you absolutely must experience it in your lifetime. Click here for directions and more information.

Northern California is home to many unforgettable national parks, and Lassen may just be the weirdest one of them all. There's so much to love about the park's volcanic, prehistoric-looking landscape. Sitting at the foot of the Cascade Mountain Range, the park boasts some of the most awe-inspiring views. No matter what time of year it is, this place is a treasure all year long. Click here for directions and more information.