California, Hiking, Outdoors, Safety, Travel, Uncategorized, Writing

Potato Mountain

We headed up to explore another section of Claremont Hills Wilderness Park: Potato Mountain. Situated at the front of the San Gabriel Mountains, Potato Mountain offers nice views of the Pomona Valley below. Why it's called Potato Mountain is a mystery, but this hike offers up a good workout and a low-key adventure.

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, 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, Breakfast, Brunch, California, Deserts, Family, Hiking, Historic Sites, History, Outdoors, Safety, Style, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, Writing

LA Weekends: Hey Hollywood!

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.

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.