Highest, lowest, largest, oldest: Southern California is a land of superlatives, from the alpine summit of Mount Whitney (14,495 feet above sea level) in the Sierra Nevada range, to the salty pool at Badwater (282 feet below sea level) in the depths of Death Valley; from groves of giant sequoia trees standing over 250 feet tall, to desert plants more than four thousand years old. To help you explore these sites and dozens more, 'Backroads of Southern California' - written and photographed by a local expert and tour guide - features spectacularly varied and vibrantly seductive backroads and showcases the compelling scenery and colourful history in the lower half of the Golden State. Whether you are planning a day trip, looking for unusual destinations, or simply want to learn more about the region, 'Backroads of Southern California' will lead you deep into the soul of the southern part of the state - beyond the bustling cities and common tourist attractions.