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

Pacific Crest Trails: Pleasant View Ridge Wilderness, Sulphur Springs Trail Camp, and Benny’s First Hike

On our first of what will hopefully be many hikes with Benedict Willem Alexander, we headed up to Rosenita Saddle along Angeles Crest and hiked along forest service roads and a portion of the Pacific Crest Trail. Benny loved a short visit to the creek as well as exercise and free pets from fellow hikers along this quiet portion of the Pleasant View Ridge Wilderness.

California, Dogs, Family, Food, Hiking, Historic 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, 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.