Big Basin Redwoods State Park was California's first ever state park, established in 1902. And for many people across the West, it's a beloved place.
So when the CZU Lightning Complex fires raged through the Santa Cruz mountains, scarring the trees and razing the historic Visitor’s Center, there were a lot of feelings — even though it looks like the majority of those majestic trees are going to be just fine.
Some of Big Basin's redwoods are over 300 feet tall, and potentially as ancient as 2,500 years old. Those big, beautiful trees witnessed weddings, family reunions, first camping trips and so much more. So KQED asked its audience for their treasured memories and photographs of Big Basin on KQED News' Instagram, so they could showcase them.
Go here to read about how California's increasingly devastating wildfires might affect special places like Big Basin.
