American West, California, Hiking, Outdoors, Safety, Style, Travel, Uncategorized, Writing

Pacific Crest Trails: Winston Peak

On a mild, early summer day, we explored a section of the Pacific Crest Trail and a new peak. Starting from 6000' Day Use Area along Angeles Crest Highway, we hiked PCT to Cloudburst Summit, then headed up the trail to Winston Peak. At 7502 feet, this peak offers a nice workout hike in pretty pine and cedar forest.

American West, California, Camping, Dogs, Hiking, Opinion, Outdoors, Style, Travel, Uncategorized, Writing

The Reopening of Chantry Flat

After a four-year closure, we headed back to Chantry Flat Recreation Area in the Angeles National Forest. While life- and the trail- has changed some, there is still much adventure to be shared in Big Santa Anita Canyon.

American West, Camping, Hiking, Holidays, Outdoors, Safety, Traditions, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, Writing

Arizona Adventures: Pinetop-Lakeside Trails

Nestled in Arizona's White Mountains, Pinetop-Lakeside offers many opportunities for adventures. With miles of hiking trails, lakes, and scenic vistas, there is much to explore in these great outdoors.

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, 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.