The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Central California from Hay & Hideaway

A Guest Resource for Adventure, Nature & Year-Round Experiences

When you stay at Hay & Hideaway in Squaw Valley, you’re not just booking a cabin, you’re positioning yourself at the heart of some of California’s most iconic destinations.

Within just a few hours (or less), you can stand beneath ancient redwoods, explore world-famous national parks, ski Olympic terrain, attend a local rodeo, or enjoy an open-air movie night under the stars.

This guide is designed to help you plan your stay with ease, whether you're visiting for romance, family adventure, or a quiet reset in nature.

Sequoia National Park

Drive Time from Hay & Hideaway: 1 hour 27 minutes

Few landscapes in the world compare to Sequoia National Park, home to some of the largest and oldest trees on Earth.

According to SevenWonders.org, redwoods and giant sequoias are considered one of the seven natural wonders of the world due to their immense size, ancient lineage, and ecological significance. Walking among these giants feels like stepping into a cathedral carved by time itself.

Why Guests Love Visiting Sequoia

See the General Sherman Tree (the largest tree by volume on Earth)

• Walk the family-friendly Congress Trail

• Scenic mountain drives with breathtaking overlooks

• Picnic areas perfect for couples and families

• Snowshoeing and winter beauty in colder months

Insider Tip:

Arrive early during peak summer months to avoid parking congestion. Bring layers, mountain temperatures shift quickly.

After a full day of exploration, returning to the quiet comfort of Hay & Hideaway makes the experience even more meaningful. Adventure by day, peace by night.

Yosemite National Park

Drive Time from Cabin: Approximately 2 Hours

World-renowned and celebrated by National Geographic, Yosemite National Park offers towering granite cliffs, waterfalls, alpine meadows, and wildlife encounters.

While Sequoia is known for its massive trees, Yosemite is known for scale and drama, from El Capitan to Half Dome.

What to See in Yosemite

• Yosemite Valley

• Yosemite Falls (especially impressive in spring)

• Glacier Point (seasonal access)

• Easy meadow walks for families

• Rock climbing history and scenic viewpoints

Yosemite makes for an unforgettable day trip or an overnight extension of your stay.

Pro Tip: Download park maps before arriving. Cell service can be limited.

Winter Adventures: Palisades Tahoe (Formerly Squaw Valley)

World-Class Skiing & Olympic Legacy

Just north of the Central Valley, Palisades Tahoe (formerly Squaw Valley, rebranded in 2021) remains one of California’s most celebrated ski destinations.

Host of the 1960 Winter Olympics, this iconic resort is known for:

• 6,000+ acres of skiable terrain

• High annual snowfall

• The legendary Aerial Tram

• A reputation as the “Spring Skiing Capital”

Featured in Forbes as one of the world’s best ski resorts, Palisades Tahoe blends history with modern alpine luxury.

Whether you're a seasoned skier or planning your first snow-filled family trip, pairing winter sports with a peaceful cabin retreat creates the perfect balance of thrill and relaxation.

Local Rodeo Events & Family Nights

For a truly local experience, guests can explore events hosted by the Mountain Rodeo Association.

Throughout the year, nearby arenas host:

• Rodeo competitions

• Community events

• Family movie nights in the arena

• Date-night experiences under the stars

These events offer a charming, authentic glimpse into the region’s Western heritage and community spirit.

Check event schedules ahead of your stay to see what’s happening during your visit.

Seasonal Experiences to Plan Around

Spring

• Wildflower blooms in the foothills

• Waterfalls at peak flow in Yosemite

• Cooler hiking weather

Summer

• Ideal conditions for Sequoia and Yosemite day trips

• Family travel season

• Outdoor dining and sunset drives

Fall

• Fewer crowds

• Crisp mornings, golden hills

• Romantic escape season

Winter

• Snow-dusted landscapes

• Ski trips to Palisades Tahoe

• Cozy cabin evenings

Each season offers a different lens on Central California and Hay & Hideaway remains your peaceful home base year-round.

Why Staying at Hay & Hideaway Makes Every Adventure Better

Location matters but atmosphere matters just as much.

After exploring towering redwoods, dramatic granite cliffs, ski slopes, or rodeo arenas, guests return to:

• A private, thoughtfully designed hayloft cabin

• Quiet evenings free from crowds

• Wide-open valley views

• Space to reconnect and unwind

Because Hay & Hideaway sits on family land rich with legacy, it offers more than convenience, it offers grounding.

Here, silence isn’t empty.
It’s restorative.

Planning Your Stay

When booking your trip, consider:

• 2–3 nights for Sequoia-focused visits

• 3–4 nights if combining Sequoia + Yosemite

• Winter stays for ski access and cozy evenings

• Event calendars for rodeos or movie nights

No matter your itinerary, the cabin gives you flexibility, adventure within reach, and stillness when you need it.

Start Planning Your Central California Escape

From the ancient giants of Sequoia National Park to the granite drama of Yosemite, from Olympic ski slopes to small-town rodeo nights, Central California offers a rare combination of world-class experiences and grounded simplicity.

And at the center of it all is Hay & Hideaway.

Book your stay today and make the cabin your basecamp for exploration, connection, and unforgettable memories.