american west, Brunch, california, Camping, coffee, Dessert, Food, Hiking, Historical sites, history, Museums, Opinion, outdoors, School, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, wine, wine and drink, writing

Coloma: California Gold

In this second post on the American River, we explore the Marshall Gold Discovery Center in Coloma, California and learn more about the history of the California Gold Rush.

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, Deserts, Hiking, national parks, outdoors, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

Death Valley: Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes

The fourth post in our Death Valley series explores the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. Sand sledding and fun are permitted. As a bonus, the end of the post features a stop at Natural Bridge, an arch within Death Valley National Park not far from Badwater Basin.

american west, california, Camping, Deserts, national parks, outdoors, Style, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

Death Valley: Hitting New Lows

In the third post of our Death Valley series, we hit a new low at 282 feet below sea level, the lowest point in North America: Badwater Basin.

american west, california, Camping, Deserts, Hiking, Historical sites, history, national parks, outdoors, Style, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

Death Valley National Park

This is the first post of our Death Valley series. The national park is the lowest, driest, and hottest area in the United States, and there are many opportunities for adventure throughout the park.