American West, Breakfast, Brunch, California, Camping, Coffee, Dogs, Food, Hiking, Historic Sites, Lunch, Outdoors, Shopping, Style, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, Writing

Idyllwild, California

Tucked into the San Jacinto Mountains, Idyllwild, California is an idyllic retreat from the desert below. With miles of nearby hiking trails, dining, shopping, and the arts, this town offers something for everyone- including a chance to meet Mayor Max and his deputies.

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

Bailey Canyon Falls

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.

American West, Camping, Family, Hiking, National Parks, Travel, Uncategorized, Writing

Old Pinnacles

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.

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

North Etiwanda Preserve

After a stressful Saturday morning professional test, the Cranky Camper hiked to Etiwanda Falls. The Etiwanda Wilderness Preserve protects Riversidian Alluvial Sage Scrub habitat and the endemic species found there.

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

The Natural Bridges of Calaveras County

The Cranky Camper visits a well-known secret swimming spot not far from Angels Camp: Natural Bridges.