The Kaweah River country lies about 200 miles north of Los Angeles and 275 miles south of San Francisco. Three Rivers makes a good base for exploration. For more information, contact the Three Rivers―Lemon Cove Business Association ( www.threerivers.com or 559/561-0410). There's also considerable information on the local newspaper's website www.kaweahcommonwealth.com.
Hiking and exploring
In spring, hiking here is hard to beat. For information on the Ladybug Trail and others, stop in at Sequoia National Park's Foothills Visitor Center (8-4:30 daily; $10 per car park entry fee; www.nps.gov/seki or 559/565-3135). Check conditions before heading out because you'll use some narrow, unpaved roads to reach trailheads.
Rafting
Kaweah White Water Adventures. Two-hour ($40) to full-day ($130) trips on Kaweah River. www.kaweahwhitewater.com or 559/561-1000.
April events
Jazzaffair. Three Rivers' nationally celebrated High Sierra Jazz Band hosts a festival featuring eight other groups. Apr 7-10; $20 per day, $70 for three-day pass. www.highsierrajazzband.com or 559/561-4920.
Lion's Team Roping. Roping, barrel racing, and barbecues. Apr 21-24; $1 per vehicle. At Lion's Arena, off North Fork Dr.; 559/561-2222.
Springville Sierra Rodeo. The stop on the Professional Rodeo Cowboy Assocation tour stars top cowboys and features barbecues and a parade. Apr 22-24; from $8. www.rodeo49.com or 866/763-3649.
Shops and galleries
Anne Lang's Emporium. Gifts, teas, and sandwiches, including picnics to go. 41651 Sierra Dr.; 559/561-4937.
The Cabin. Coffeehouse and used books; a deck overlooks the river. 42251 Sierra; 559/561-4785.
Cort Gallery. Riverfront venue for art exhibits and occasional performances. Check Kaweah Commonwealth for programs. 41881 Sierra; 559/561-4036.
Dining
The Gateway Restaurant and Lodge. Great riverside location. $$$. 45978 Sierra; www.gateway-sequoia.com or 559/561-4133.
Main Fork Bistro. Diverse menu with good selection of seafood and pasta. $$. 41775 Sierra; 559/561-4917.
Serrano's. Casual Mexican dining. $. 40869 Sierra; 559/561-7283.
Lodging
Sequoia Motel. Fourteen distinctively decorated cabins and rooms. From $72. 43000 Sierra; www.sequoiamotel.com or 559/561-4453.
Sequoia Village Inn. Eight cabins and chalets. From $69. 45971 Sierra; www.sequoiavillageinn.com or 559/561-3652.
