american west, Brunch, california, Camping, Hiking, Lunch, outdoors, safety, Travel, Uncategorized

Mt. Pinos

Located in the Los Padres National Forest, Mt. Pinos and the surrounding peaks offer many opportunities for adventure across all seasons- in sunshine and in snow. This posts covers two hiking and camping weekend adventures in September.

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

Devils Postpile National Monument

Devils Postpile National Monument, located in the Mammoth Lakes, protects the unique columnar basalt formation that is the Devils Postpile. On this adventure, we explore the national monument and earn our junior ranger badges. Highlights of this trip include the hike to Rainbow Falls and viewing the Devils Postpile from the PCT/JMT.

american west, california, Camping, Hiking, national parks, Opinion, outdoors, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

Kelso Dunes

Located in the Mojave National Preserve along I-40 in Southern California, Kelso Dunes offers fun recreational opportunities for camping, hiking, and sliding on the 'singing' sand dunes.

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

Pacific Crest Trails: Cooper Canyon Falls

Cooper Canyon Falls, nestled in the San Gabriel Mountains near the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail, is a 25-foot waterfall formed from the perennially flowing stream within Cooper Canyon. On a sunny Saturday in late March, we trekked along the Burkhart Trail to Cooper Canyon Falls.

american west, california, Camping, Hiking, Opinion, outdoors, safety, Travel, Uncategorized, writing

Geology Adventures: Pisgah Crater

Pisgah Crater, located in the literal middle-of-nowhere off Interstate 40, is a geology adventure perfect for rockhounds and cave enthusiasts. In this post, I share our experience exploring the lava fields and crater, along with some practical considerations. Please note that camping is not allowed on private property, and that dispersed camping on BLM land comes with no services. Also, exploring the lava tubes can carry some risk, so proceed with caution.