Open: Always. Best during spring bloom period
Location: East of Visalia to foothills and back
Take the back roads in eastern Tulare County and see agriculture at its finest. Known as the “Citrus Belt,” this region of citrus groves is not just pretty to look at. Citrus – lemons, navel and Valencia oranges and tangerines – produces over $650 million in gross income for the county annually.
You’ll enjoy this relaxing 87-mile loop east of Visalia in all seasons. It route takes you through the citrus region, into oak woodlands, up to the Sequoia National Forest and back again through charming small towns.
Starting at Visalia, head east on Hwy 198. About 8 miles out you’ll pass the Kaweah Oaks Preserve, reminiscent of the oak forests that once completely surrounded Visalia.
At mile 13, turn right onto Yokohl Drive, just past the bridge over Yokohl Creek. The Jordan Trail Toll Marker is located at this juncture. Three miles beyond, Yokohl Drive branches to the left and provides a scenic all-weather route upward through the Sierra foothills.
Just beyond Milo, the Yokohl intersects with Balch Park Road. Here, a left turn will take you to Mt. Home State Forest. Or you can turn right and drive through historic Springville to Hwy 190. Turn right onto Hwy 190 and you’re on the downward and homeward leg of your journey.
On your right you’ll see Lake Success and Bartlett Park. These are pubic recreational areas with plenty of picnicking, bird watching and fishing.
Take a right turn into Porterville and you can see the historic Zalud House at Morton and Hockett Streets. Or continue driving west to Hwy 65, where you’ll turn right (north) toward Lindsay.
You’ll pass miles of perennially dark green citrus trees and grey-green olive trees. Tulare County also has the largest olive production in the U.S.
Watch the signs and follow Hwy 65 into Exeter, home to citrus groves, citrus packing houses and mural art. Three miles past Exeter you’ll intersect with Hwy 198 once again. A left turn brings you back to Visalia.
|
