american west, Amusement Parks, california, Dessert, dinner, Family, Food, Lunch, Opinion, School, Style, traditions, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

The Happiest Place on Earth: Rise of the Resistance

In honor of both her birthday and Disneyland's, the Cranky Camper shares her visit to the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California as part of a school field trip, with an emphasis on its newest attractions: the Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge.

california, Camping, Dog, Hiking, Opinion, outdoors, Uncategorized

Hiking the Angeles: The Top of Brown Mountain Dam

Returning to a favorite haunt, the Cranky Camper explores the top of Brown Mountain Dam in the Angeles National Forest.

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

North Etiwanda Preserve

After a stressful Saturday morning professional test, the Cranky Camper hiked to Etiwanda Falls. The Etiwanda Wilderness Preserve protects Riversidian Alluvial Sage Scrub habitat and the endemic species found there.

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

Wild Winters Melt into Springs

While wet weather can bring beautiful blooms and lush scenery, heavy rain and snowfall can present hazards on trails even after the inclement weather has passed. Be aware of trail conditions and be prepared for potential obstacles.

american west, california, Deserts, Hiking, national parks, outdoors, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

Death Valley: Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes

The fourth post in our Death Valley series explores the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. Sand sledding and fun are permitted. As a bonus, the end of the post features a stop at Natural Bridge, an arch within Death Valley National Park not far from Badwater Basin.