american west, Brunch, california, Family, Food, Hiking, Historical sites, outdoors, safety, Travel, Uncategorized, writing

Devils Gate Dam

On a sunny Southern California winter's Saturday, we hiked the Flint Canyon Trail, a Los Angeles County-maintained trail, to the famed, possibly haunted Devils Gate Dam. This post contains hiking safety and a nice brunch suggestion in neighboring Montrose.

american west, california, Hiking, Historical sites, history, Opinion, outdoors, safety, Travel, Uncategorized, writing

Shoemaker Canyon: Tunnels to Nowhere

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.

american west, california, holidays, new years day, Opinion, outdoors, traditions, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

The Magic in Teamwork: The 137th Tournament of Roses

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.

american west, california, Camping, Hiking, outdoors, Style, Travel, Uncategorized, wine, wine and drink, writing

Adventures in Agua Dulce

After a rainy couple weeks in November, we enjoyed a half-day adventure hiking and wine tasting in Agua Dulce.

american west, california, Hiking, Opinion, outdoors, Travel, Uncategorized, writing

Bonita Falls

With over 300 miles of trail in 680000 acres of the San Bernardino National Forest, there is much to explore. On a warm Sunday afternoon, we hiked to Bonita Falls and spent some time cooling off in the creek.