american west, california, Camping, Hiking, history, outdoors, Travel, Uncategorized, writing

Pacific Crest Trails: Vasquez Rocks

For a nice hike along the Pacific Crest Trail featuring some other-worldly rock formations, Vasquez Rocks is a fun adventure. Located in north Los Angeles County, this 945-acre county park has a nature center- and scenic views.

american west, california, Camping, dogs, Hiking, Opinion, outdoors, Style, Travel, Uncategorized, writing

The Reopening of Chantry Flat

After a four-year closure, we headed back to Chantry Flat Recreation Area in the Angeles National Forest. While life- and the trail- has changed some, there is still much adventure to be shared in Big Santa Anita Canyon.

american west, Brunch, Family, Hiking, holidays, Opinion, outdoors, Shopping, Style, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

Scenic Routes: Salt River Canyon

The Cranky Camper family takes the scenic route from Pinetop-Lakeside to Scottsdale on the last day of Thanksgiving vacation. This drive along U.S. Route 60 took us through Arizona's spectacular Salt River Canyon.

american west, california, Camping, Hiking, Historical sites, outdoors, Travel, Uncategorized

Hiking the Angeles: Eaton Saddle Trails

With hundreds of miles of trails across over 700000 acres, there are many opportunities for unique adventures in the Angeles National Forest, with each trail bringing something different to explore. This post features two trails, both starting at Eaton Saddle: Tom Sloan Trail and Mt. Lowe Trail to Inspiration Point.

american west, california, Hiking, Historical sites, history, outdoors, safety, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

Hiking the Angeles: Mt. Disappointment and San Gabriel Peak

With hundreds of miles to explore, the San Gabriel Mountains offer ample opportunities for fun and adventure. One an early fall Saturday, we returned to Eaton Saddle to explore two new peaks: Mt. Disappointment and San Gabriel Peak.