Upland(United States) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Appling, the top family-friendly option is Lake Appling Resort, nestled along the shores of Lake Appling. It offers spacious family suites, a dedicated children’s play area, and on-site activities like guided nature walks and fishing excursions. For a more rustic experience, Greenwood Homestay provides cozy cabins with kitchenettes and private outdoor spaces—perfect for families wanting to immerse in local life. If you seek seclusion, the Redwood Forest Eco-Lodges offer secluded treehouses with panoramic forest views, ideal for quiet, nature-based bonding time. All properties prioritize safety, accessibility, and child-friendly amenities.

The best time to visit Appling for hiking and outdoor adventures is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Temperatures hover between 15–20°C, skies are clear, and wildflowers bloom in spring while fall brings vibrant foliage. Trails like Maple Ridge Trail and Pine Creek Pathway are accessible and scenic. Summer can be hot with occasional wildfire risks, while winter brings heavy rain and trail closures. Avoiding peak July crowds ensures a more peaceful experience. These seasons offer optimal conditions for backpacking, birdwatching, and photography in pristine natural settings.

Visitors to Appling can engage in authentic Miwok Tribal Guided Tours, learning about the indigenous Miwok people’s traditions, storytelling, and deep connection to the land. The monthly Appling Artisan Market features local craftspeople showcasing handmade pottery, wood carvings, and woven textiles—ideal for purchasing meaningful souvenirs. At night, join Stargazing Sessions at the Skyview Observatory, where minimal light pollution reveals breathtaking constellations. Don’t miss tasting wild pine nut and honey pastries, a traditional recipe passed down through generations, offering a true taste of Appling’s heritage.

Must-try dishes in Appling include Squirrel & Pine Nut Stew, a hearty blend of wild game and locally harvested pine nuts, slow-cooked to perfection. Another highlight is Redwood Honey-Glazed Salmon, made with fresh Sacramento River salmon, drizzled with wildflower honey and roasted with herbs. Start your day with wild blueberry jam on sourdough toast, sourced from nearby farms. For a campfire treat, try roasted corn with butter and sea salt, served over an open flame. These dishes reflect Appling’s rich culinary roots and its harmonious relationship with the surrounding wilderness.

For ultimate peace and quiet, head to Oak Valley, located in western Appling. Surrounded by ancient redwood forests and oak groves, this remote area has minimal development and only a few eco-lodges. Oakhaven Retreat offers secluded cabins with private decks and fireplaces, perfect for meditation or reading. A short walk leads to Whispering Brook, a crystal-clear stream ideal for quiet reflection. With no streetlights and near-silent nights, it’s a sanctuary for those seeking solitude and deep connection with nature—ideal for digital detoxes and soulful escapes.

Appling is a photographer’s dream. Capture stunning reflections of the redwood canopy on the glassy surface of Lake Appling at dawn using a long exposure. The Skyline Overlook offers sweeping panoramic views of the valley, especially magical at sunrise when golden light floods the forest. In autumn, Maple Ridge Trail becomes a kaleidoscope of color—perfect for wide-angle shots. The ruins of the Old Miner’s Cabin provide dramatic textures and historical contrast against creeping vines. Bring a tripod and wide-angle lens to fully capture the region’s ethereal beauty and dynamic lighting.

Yes, driving is highly recommended in Appling, as public transit is non-existent. The main route, State Route 49, winds through scenic landscapes but includes narrow, winding sections—drive carefully. Renting a car or SUV is essential for accessing remote areas like the Redwood Forest Preserve and Whispering Brook Trail. From Sacramento, it’s a 1.5-hour drive; from Lake Tahoe, about 2 hours. Some lodges offer shuttle services, though infrequently. Always download offline maps due to spotty cell coverage. Driving not only grants flexibility but also allows full immersion in Appling’s untamed natural beauty.

Couples visiting Appling will love Lakeside Starlight Cabin, a secluded cabin with a glass-roofed bedroom overlooking Lake Appling, perfect for stargazing. It features a private hot tub and fireplace, ideal for intimate evenings. Alternatively, the Redwood Treehouse Suite offers a suspended room among towering redwoods, with floor-to-ceiling windows framing the forest canopy. Couples can stroll hand-in-hand along the Lovers’ Trail, lined with engraved iron plaques. Evening fireside dinners under the stars complete the dreamy atmosphere. These stays emphasize privacy, romance, and harmony with nature—ideal for unforgettable getaways.

Appling enforces strict eco-tourism policies. All lodgings must use biodegradable materials and ban single-use plastics. Visitors entering the Redwood Forest Preserve must sign an Eco-Pledge, committing to leave no trace, avoid wildlife feeding, and not introduce invasive species. Waste must be sorted and disposed of properly—campfires are allowed only in designated zones. Some trails operate on a reservation system to limit foot traffic. Visitors are encouraged to bring reusable bottles and eco-friendly toiletries. Violations may result in fines or restricted access. These measures ensure the preservation of Appling’s fragile ecosystems for future generations.

Appling offers enchanting nighttime experiences. Join the Night Walk in the Redwoods, led by expert guides who reveal nocturnal wildlife like owls, bats, and fireflies. Every evening, the Lake Appling Starlight Concert blends acoustic music with projected star maps, creating a magical soundscape. Gather around a bonfire at Oakhaven Retreat for Storytelling Nights, where local legends and Miwok myths come alive. On clear nights, witness deer silently crossing the meadow under moonlight—a surreal, poetic moment. These activities deepen the connection to Appling’s mystical night world, making it a truly unforgettable destination.