The San Lorenzo Valley (Images of America)

The headwaters of the San Lorenzo River are just 15 miles from the city of San Jose and just 15 miles from the city of Santa Cruz, both thriving towns during the Mission period. Even so, a steep canyon, an almost impenetrable forest, and formidable grizzly bears ensured that these headwaters remained unexploited by Westerners until the 1880s. Once the rich natural resources such as vast forests of redwood lumber, lime deposits, and tan oaks were discovered, this virgin landscape was pillaged and plundered. A few enlightened individuals understood that the clear-cutting techniques of the lumber companies would soon result in the total loss of this natural wonder. Their endeavors resulted in the founding of California's first state park at Big Basin, saving this precious resource for future generations.