california, Dog, Family, Food, Hiking, Historical sites, Opinion, outdoors, safety, Travel, Uncategorized, writing

Love Letters to Eaton Canyon: Eaton Fire Trail Closures

The Eaton Fire, now fully contained after burning over 14000 acres, has destroyed many homes and businesses throughout Altadena, Pasadena, and Sierra Madre. Also lost in the fire are many beloved hiking trails and recreation spots in the Angeles National Forest and Los Angeles County.

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, california, dogs, Hiking, outdoors, Travel, Uncategorized, writing

Bailey Canyon Falls

On this June hike, I revisited the Bailey Canyon Nature Trail. This short hike terminates with the ephemeral Bailey Canyon Falls. In 2024, the falls are flowing thanks to the atmospheric rivers of the past two winters.

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

Jones Peak, revisited

On a clear, sun-soaked day, the Cranky Camper revisits a low, but challenging peak at the front of the San Gabriel Mountains.

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

Hiking the Angeles: Mt. Wilson

In this post, the Cranky Campers hike the strenuous trail to the peak of Mt. Wilson, a familiar mountain with scientific, historic- and personal- significance.