As Spanish authorities colonized Alta California, they established 21 Franciscan missions and four forts, or presidios, to bring the native inhabitants of the region under control and to provide for security and defense. Today, the missions and presidios are among California's most popular historic landmarks, and enduring reminders of California's Spanish and Mexican past. For travelers and outdoor enthusiasts who want to experience a taste of all that the area has to offer, this book contains short hikes, biking, and other outdoor recreation opportunities, plus travel information and natural history. It is a fun and fascinating tour of the missions and presidios for vacationers and history buffs alike.
Other books in the Exploring series include Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Canyonlands and Arches National Park, Cape Hatteras and Cape Lookout National Seashores, Dinosaur National Monument, Florida's Atlantic Coast Beaches, Florida's Gulf Coast Beaches, Glacier National Park, Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail, Gulf Islands National Seashore, Hawaii's Parklands, Mount Helena, Point Reyes National Seashore and Golden Gate National Recreation Area, and Southern California Beaches.
