The Sutter Buttes
The Sutter Buttes mountain range is the remains of an extinct volcano, which erupted between 1.60 and 1.35 million years ago. The Buttes have an array of flora and fauna that have remained virtually untouched for hundreds of years. We explore the range's volcanic origins, visit the grinding rocks left behind by Native Americans, explore an old pioneer family ranch, and the remains of a family cemetery of the early Buttes' pioneers.
www.middlemountain.org

Sequoia National Park
The Giant Sequoias are one of the largest living things on the planet, and the park they reside in is one of California's best-kept secrets. Join us as we wander among the giant redwoods of Sequoia National Park and check out the accommodations at the beautiful new Wuksachi Lodge.

Elkhorn Slough
Located midway between Santa Cruz and Monterey lies moss landing and Elkhorn slough, major stopovers on the migratory route for more than 300 species of birds, flying as far north as the Arctic and as far south as South America. In this hidden town complete with salt marshes, the ocean and historical buildings, you can take the Elkhorn slough safari, a 2-hour nature experience in one of California's largest coastal wetlands run by former U.S. Navy Captain Yohn Gideon. Also in town, a new bed and breakfast, the Captain's Inn. It was once the headquarters for the pacific coast steamship company.
www.elkhornslough.com
www.captainsinn.com

Costanoa Coastal Lodge & Camp
Head to the picture-perfect Costanoa Coastal Lodge & Camp surrounded by endless acres of undisturbed wilderness and coastal hills. Pitch your own tent or relax in a luxury room where accommodations include Douglas fir cabins, canvas tents, and a 40-room lodge.
www.costanoa.com
www.anonuevo.org

Drakesbad Guest Ranch
Join us as we travel to a time without electricity and the intrusionsof modern technology to the Drakesbad Guest Ranch. Situated in a beautiful meadow in a secluded area of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, you can swim in the nearby natural hot springs, take a horseback ride through the meadow, and see all of the geological wonders of the park peppered with active volcanoes.
www.drakesbad.com
www.nps.gov/lavo

Llama Treks
Take a hike with Como Say Llamas for a 6-mile leisurely trek that ends with a gourmet lunch in the middle of the wilderness, with a llama carrying the load. The gentle creatures carry up to 80 pounds to allow you to enjoy the hike that starts at the Point Reyes National Seashore.
www.llamapacker.com

Woodleaf Outdoor
Education Program
Located on the site of a former native Maidu village and a Gold Rush era hotel, the Woodleaf Outdoor Education Program offers school children a chance to explore the forest and all of its inhabitants as they learn valuable survival skills. Founded by nature photographer John Hendrickson, the program also houses the Radin Raptor Center, home to red-tailed hawks, bald eagles, and owls.

Other Stories
We also visit one couple that delights in their encounters with rattlesnakes.

Season eight of "Central Valley Chronicles" is underwritten in part by Classic Living.