California, Hiking, Outdoors, Safety, Travel, Uncategorized, Writing

Potato Mountain

Claremont Hills Wilderness Park has many opportunities for adventure. On a cool Saturday, we headed up to explore a different part of the park: Potato Mountain. Situated at the front of the San Gabriel Mountains, Potato Mountain offers nice views of the Pomona Valley below. Why it's called Potato Mountain is a mystery, but this hike offers up a good workout and a low-key adventure.

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

Hiking the Angeles: Dawn Mine

The Cranky Camper returns to the Angeles National Forest for a fun hike in historic Millard Canyon. The Dawn Mine was the site of marginally successful gold mining operations from 1985 until its permanent closure in 1954. Today, hikers can visit the site of the Dawn Mine via the Sunset Ridge Trail, not far from Echo Mountain.

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

Palomar Mountain State Park

As part of a school field trip, we hiked to Palomar Mountain State Park in San Diego County. No cranky campers here!