Places Roko Wants to Go

A small research station sits at the summit of this mountain, which is one of the few U.S. peaks higher than 14,000 feet outside of the Sierra Nevada.

A volcanic cone that formed over 600 years ago.

Colorful sedimentary rock layers provide opportunities both for hiking and photography.

This massive redwood tree has stood in Northern California for nearly 2,000 years.

Deep vertical fissures like miniature slot canyons cut across the cemented volcanic rock of Black Point above Mono Lake.

This hiking/biking/horse trail along an old railroad grade features trestles, tunnels, and a roadless stretch through the scenic Susan River canyon.

The flow from this waterfall sometimes comes out of springs below its rim.

A sparse, solitary sequoia still stands as a living tribute to the famous conservationist who planted it—but it's dying.

What began as an illegal art installation has become a symbol for unity, ocean awareness, and coastline preservation.

Tucked away behind an unassuming set of shops is a must-see series of stunning murals.

The neighborhood of Eagle Rock is named after a gigantic boulder with a shadowy surprise.

Traversing these canyons, visitors can take in stunning views and glimpses of the region's history.

A huge work of Burning Man-inspired outsider art on the grounds of a California winery.

A massive volcanic plug is now a protected area that hosts a number of bird species.

This giant temperature attraction created some giant electric bills.

The beauty and the beast of hydraulic mining is on full display at this California Historic State Park.

Centuries of crashing waves carved out this small hole in the rock, which lights up at certain parts of the year.

The first life claimed by this record-breaking peak wasn't lost to exposure or a fall, but rather lightning.

Inky sludge oozes to the surface of this beach thanks to a rare natural tar seep.

A natural dome made of volcanic glass in Inyo National Forest.

Massive prehistoric mammals used these stones as oversized scratching posts.

Burping, gurgling geothermal mud pots by the Salton Sea.

Four hundred granite steps were built into this massive rock by the National Park Service.

This dormant volcanic crater has been converted from a roiling pit of magma to a pleasant hiking spot.