American West, California, Dogs, Hiking, Historic Sites, Outdoors, Travel, Uncategorized, Writing

Hiking the Angeles: Mt. Wilson Trail to First Water and Orchard Camp

The San Gabriel Mountains has miles of hiking trails, with many opportunities for adventures. The Mt. Wilson Trail has several points of interest that make for fun stops up to Mt. Wilson or as hikes on their own.

American West, California, Camping, Hiking, Outdoors, Travel, Uncategorized, Writing

Hiking the Angeles: Strawberries on Strawberry Peak

Peak 3 of our Six Pack of Peaks challenge was Strawberry Peak in the San Gabriel Mountains. The trail starts off Angeles Crest Highway across from the Red Box Picnic Area, and the hike is generally considered challenging. In this post, the Cranky Camper shares her experience, as well as a minor misadventure on the trail.

American West, California, Camping, Hiking, Outdoors, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, Writing

Ontario Peak via Icehouse Canyon

Icehouse Canyon is a gateway to multiple trails in the Cucamonga Wilderness. Ontario Peak is a strenuous hike that yields beautiful views.

American West, California, Dogs, Family, Midwest, National Parks, Opinion, Outdoors, Parenting, pets, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, Writing

Ode to the Great American Road Trip

A prelude to the summer 2022 vacation season, the Cranky Camper takes a drive down memory lane in this essay on the American road trip

American West, California, Hiking, Outdoors, Travel, Uncategorized, Writing

A Six Pack of Peaks

The Cranky Camper takes on the 2022 So Cal Six Packs of Peaks challenge- starting with a familiar hike: Mt. Baden-Powell.