A Historic Wildlife Discovery: For the first time in over 100 years, a grey wolf has been tracked entering Sequoia National Park! Wildlife officials are currently monitoring its collar in a remote area of the park.

Waterfalls, Hiking & Wildlife: The trail season is in peak form. Trails to cascading waters like Tokopah Falls and Marble Falls are putting on spectacular displays, and the wilderness is alive with native birds and active wildlife.

National Park Fee-Free Days: Mark your calendars to save on your park budget! Entrance fees are waived for US residents on Flag Day (June 14th) and the entire 4th of July Weekend (July 3rd–5th).

Junior Ranger Program & Ranger Talks: Interactive, educational ranger-led programs are fully active for the summer. Families can also grab a free activity book at any visitor center so kids can earn an official junior ranger badge on the trails.

Be Bear Aware: Active black bears are out. Never leave food scraps or fruit peels (including compostable orange peels) on trails. Use bear-resistant cans or pack your trash completely out to keep both bears and people safe.

Crystal Cave Booking: Tickets must be purchased in advance online via the Sequoia Parks Conservancy—no tickets are sold at the gate. Allow at least a 1.5-hour drive from the main entrance due to storm repairs, and make sure younger kids are comfortable with a dark, enclosed, hour-long guided tour.

Ride the Visalia Shuttle: Skip the summer traffic and parking hassle. The seasonal shuttle runs from Visalia straight up to the Giant Forest Museum transportation hub from late May through Labor Day. A Taste of Summer (Food & Agriculture)

Woodlake Botanical Garden: A free, donation-based community treasure around Bravo Lake where visitors can stroll the orchards and taste fresh stone fruits, citrus, and berries right off the branch.

Visalia Farmers Markets: Hit the massive morning markets on Saturdays (by the courthouse) and Wednesdays, or explore the lively seasonal Thursday night market downtown.

Exeter Farmers Market: A certified organic market at Mixter Park where vendors can only sell items they personally grew or made themselves.

Rustic Cheese Shop (Visalia) & Exeter Cheese Co.: The perfect spots to pick up gourmet local cheeses or a custom charcuterie box before driving up the mountain.

Hometown Emporium (Exeter): A beloved local staple famous for fresh-baked cookies, scratch-made cupcakes, and delicious deli sandwiches.

Orange Works (Visalia & Strathmore): A must-visit local cafe celebrated for its signature soft-serve ice cream made using fresh, locally grown oranges.

Stafford's Chocolates (Porterville): A charming boutique coffee and artisan chocolate shop.

Reimer's Candies (Three Rivers): Located right outside the park entrance, legendary for its fresh chocolates and wild berry ice creams.

Crescent & Halstead Meadows: Beautiful, quiet meadow views ideal for a peaceful lunch away from the heaviest park crowds.

Hospital Rock: Enjoy lunch while exploring the rich history and petroglyphs of the local Native American tribes.

Mooney Grove Park (Visalia): California’s first county park features shaded historic arbors, a lagoon with peacocks, and a fully inclusive, accessible playground.

Cutler Park: Offers great shade, lush grass, and direct access to the St. John’s River Parkway multi-use trail.

Exeter's Interactive Murals: Home to over 30 vibrant public murals and sculptures. Grab a tour map at the chamber office to hunt for the "hidden surprises" painted into the art. An auditory history trail is also launching soon!

Kiwanis Centennial (June 7th): Exeter is celebrating 100 years of service with a special bridge dedication, free hot dogs, and a splash pad play day at the city park.

Free Summer Concert Series (June 10th): Hosted by K-JUG at Exeter's Memorial Building Park, featuring live country music, food trucks, a beer garden, and face painting.

Old-Fashioned 4th of July Festivities: