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, Camping, Hiking, national parks, Opinion, outdoors, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

Kelso Dunes

Located in the Mojave National Preserve along I-40 in Southern California, Kelso Dunes offers fun recreational opportunities for camping, hiking, and sliding on the 'singing' sand dunes.

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

Geology Adventures: Pisgah Crater

Pisgah Crater, located in the literal middle-of-nowhere off Interstate 40, is a geology adventure perfect for rockhounds and cave enthusiasts. In this post, I share our experience exploring the lava fields and crater, along with some practical considerations. Please note that camping is not allowed on private property, and that dispersed camping on BLM land comes with no services. Also, exploring the lava tubes can carry some risk, so proceed with caution.

american west, california, Camping, Hiking, national parks, outdoors, safety, traditions, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

Joshua Tree: Halls of Horrors and Cholla Gardens

In honor of Junior Ranger Day, we spent a lovely spring Saturday in Joshua Tree National Park. We explored more of the park, visiting the popular rock formation called Hall of Horrors and hiked among the interesting desert plants of the Cholla Cactus Garden.

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

Death Valley: A Galaxy Far, Far Away

If Golden Canyon looks a bit like they're out of a movie scene, it may be because it was used in the filming of "A New Hope." Formed by faulting and geologic uplift, Death Valley National Park has many scenic, other-worldly places to explore.