california, Camping, Hiking, national parks, outdoors, photography, Travel, Uncategorized

Henninger Flats Wildflowers and a Word of Caution

A follow up to our previous Henninger Flats post, this article features photos of spring wildflowers in bloom, along with safety tips for a good hike.

american west, Family, Hiking, Kids, Museums, national parks, outdoors, photography, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation

Petrified Forest National Park

Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona was another amazing park on our Spring Break Southwest Roadtrip. The landscape born of volcanic activity, sediment deposits, and geologic uplift looked as if it truly were a desert scene of vibrant color painted on canvas. The national park preserves petrified logs, as well as ancient petroglyphs and desert formations.

american west, california, Camping, Hiking, national parks, outdoors, Travel, writing

Backpacking the Angeles: Hoegees Camp and Spruce Grove

The Angeles National Forest has a number of trails and camps that can make for a fun backpacking adventure. The Gabrielino Trail and other trails in Big Santa Anita Canyon made for a fun introductory backpacking weekend close to Los Angeles.

american west, california, Camping, Dog, dogs, Family, Hiking, Organization, outdoors, Pets, safety, Shopping, Travel, Uncategorized

Great Hikes: Be Prepared

In this second of two posts, Great Hikes, the Cranky Camper discusses gear and additional considerations when hiking with a canine companion.

Dog, dogs, Family, Hiking, outdoors, Pets, Travel, Uncategorized

Great Hikes: With Dogs

In this first of a two-part series, the Cranky Camper considers what conditions she looks for when planning a hike with dogs. Also listed here are several dog-friendly hikes in the San Gabriel Mountains.