| Centrally located within the State of California, Tulare County is situated in a delightful and geographically - diverse region. The County includes an area of 4,863 square miles. Mountain peaks of the Sierra Nevada range rise to more than 14,000 feet in its Eastern half. Meanwhile, the extensively cultivated and very fertile valley floor in the Western half, has allowed Tulare County to become the second-leading producer of agricultural commodities in the United States. In addition to substantial packing / shipping operations, light and medium manufacturing plants are increasing in number and are becoming an important factor in the County's total economic picture.
The County has a growing population of 397,000. The Eastern half of the County is comprised primarily of public lands within the Sequoia National Park, National Forest, and the Mineral King, Golden Trout, and Domelands Wilderness areas. Opportunities for all-season outdoor recreation include: hiking, water and snow skiing, fishing, and boating.
Visalia, the County seat, is the gateway to Sequoia National Park and a variety of recreational activities. The city, with a population of 93,000 is within a four hour drive of either San Francisco or Los Angeles, and a 2-1/2 hour drive of California's central coastline. Its family-oriented lifestyle and affordable housing have proven attractive to people from all areas of the state and country. |
