We return to Shoemaker Canyon in the San Gabriel Mountains to explore the spooky Cold War-era escape tunnels. The project was abandoned, but the tunnels remain a testament to a time gone by marked by fear and hysteria. In this post are trail conditions at time of writing and safety considerations.
Under a cover of clouds and precipitation, the 137th Tournament of Roses Parade kicked off 2026 in Pasadena, California. Celebrating 'The Magic in Teamwork,' floats pay tribute to themes of community, friendship, collaboration, and resilience. We wish you a hopeful and blessed new year.
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.
The Cranky Camper shares her thoughts on various airports in the United States and abroad. Included in this post is video of her driving in the U.K. for the first time.
For a special birthday hike, Owen and his cranky campers take a local hike at the Ernest E. Debs Regional Park in the Montecito Heights area of Los Angeles. This short post features photos of Peanut Lake (Debs Pond) and vast LA views- along with a 'secret' hiker swing.
The Cranky Camper 