And there were gardens bright with sinuous rills
Where blossomed many an incense-bearing tree;
And here were forests ancient as the hills,
Enfolding sunny spots of greenery.
--_Kubla Khan._
The Sequoia National Park, which is located in eastern central
California, was created by the act of September 25, 1890, and enlarged
by act of July 3, 1926. Its area is now approximately 604 square miles.
The park is situated on the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada and was
established to preserve the groves and forests of California Big Trees
(_Sequoia gigantea_).
It contains not only the largest and perhaps oldest trees in the world,
but many other superb scenic attractions.
It is easily reached by train and auto stage or by private automobiles,
is open the year round, and accommodations are available at all times.