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

Hiking the Angeles: Mt. Hillyer

On a clear October morning, we continued our trek through the Angeles National Forest, this time taking a quiet route to Mt. Hillyer. This picturesque trail takes hikers through pine forests and boulder field. At the summit, there are gorgeous panoramic views of the San Gabriel Mountains.

American West, California, Hiking, Historic Sites, History, Outdoors, Safety, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, Writing

Hiking the Angeles: Mt. Disappointment and San Gabriel Peak

With hundreds of miles to explore, the San Gabriel Mountains offer ample opportunities for fun and adventure. One an early fall Saturday, we returned to Eaton Saddle to explore two new peaks: Mt. Disappointment and San Gabriel Peak.

American West, Breakfast, Brunch, California, Deserts, Family, Hiking, Historic Sites, History, Outdoors, Safety, Style, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, Writing

LA Weekends: Hey Hollywood!

The Cranky Campers celebrate the start of the summer solstice in true LA style. We attended the second night of Noah Kahan's "We'll All Be Here Forever" set at the Hollywood Bowl, then returned to Griffith Park to hike up to the famed Hollywood sign and visit the Batcave.

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

Yosemite Adventures: Wapama Falls

With photos and story-telling, the Cranky Camper describes the hike from O'Shaughnessy Dam to the famed Wapama Falls in Yosemite's Hetch Hetchy Valley.