The Cranky Camper returns to the Angeles National Forest for a fun hike in historic Millard Canyon. The Dawn Mine was the site of marginally successful gold mining operations from 1985 until its permanent closure in 1954. Today, hikers can visit the site of the Dawn Mine via the Sunset Ridge Trail, not far from Echo Mountain.
On this June hike, I revisited the Bailey Canyon Nature Trail. This short hike terminates with the ephemeral Bailey Canyon Falls. In 2024, the falls are flowing thanks to the atmospheric rivers of the past two winters.
Calaveras Big Trees State Park is a magical setting in the snow. Unfortunately, driving in a snowstorm can prove futile and even dangerous if caught unawares.
Even with inclement weather presenting challenges for a President's Day camping trip, Pinnacles National Park offered up some new hiking adventures. In this post, the Cranky Camper highlights the lushness of the Bear Gulch and Rim trails, as well as a new hike along the Old Pinnacles trail.
The sunny shores of Baeleric Sea, part of the Mediterranean, enjoy relatively mild weather, even late in the year. The Cranky Camper visits the Costa Brava, Spain's northern 'rough coast.' At the end of this post is a bonus recipe for sangria.
The Cranky Camper 