Tahoe National Forest was a lovely precursor to arriving in Lake Tahoe, California. The sky was mostly covered in wildfire smoke, creating a white backdrop as I drove between the large pines. Top Five Hikes + Places to Explore Boca Historic Townsite – an interpretive trail takes you through the once historic town. Calpine Lookout… {read more}
Lassen Volcanic National Park | Travel (127/556)
February 21, 2017 by Leave a Comment
Driving through Northern California, I was unsure what to expect upon arriving at Lassen Volcanic National Park. This was my first view, walking up to the edge of Manzanita Lake. Smoke from nearby wildfires drifted in throughout my stay and kept hiking mileage to a minimum. Top Five Hikes + Places to Explore Devils Kitchen… {read more}
Lassen National Forest | Travel (126/556)
October 25, 2016 by Leave a Comment
Smoke filled the air from nearby wildfires as I drove through Lassen National Forest. California was dry and burning in many areas during this road trip. Unfortunately, I have asthma, limiting my hiking in the smokiest stops (including this one). Top Five Hikes + Places to Explore Dow Butte Lookout – formerly a fire lookout,… {read more}
20 Days on the Road | Fall 2016
September 28, 2016 by Leave a Comment
Today I’m hitting the road for the shortened version of my fall road trip. Originally planned for 50 days, the trip was cut down to 20, allowing me time to visit with doctors during the month of September. More on that here. Stop by the travel page for planned destinations (September and October). This trip… {read more}
Whiskeytown National Recreation Area | Travel (125/556)
September 20, 2016 by Leave a Comment
After days of driving through extremely dry conditions, entering Whiskeytown National Recreation Area offered the water-filled views I had been craving. By no means was the area void of drought conditions. The park simply offered a glimpse into a more wet and lush environment. Top Five Hikes + Places to Explore Brandy Creek Falls Trail… {read more}
Shasta-Trinity National Forest | Travel (123 and 124/556)
September 15, 2016 by Leave a Comment
Another wildfire smoke filled visit, while making my way through Shasta-Trinity National Forest. For weeks, I was certain half of my trip would need to be re-routed due to wildfires. Somehow, someway, I managed to get awfully close to the fires while still keeping on course with all my national forest and national park destinations…. {read more}
Six Rivers National Forest | Travel (122/556)
September 13, 2016 by Leave a Comment
Wildfire season was in full force during my visit to Six Rivers National Forest in California. Smoke was in the air, distant views were hazy and the wildflowers were bright and beautiful. Top Five Hikes + Places to Explore Bull Creek Flats Trail – a 7.6 mile moderate hike. Enjoy a relatively flat, long stroll… {read more}
Redwood National Park | Travel (121/556)
August 31, 2016 by Leave a Comment
Redwood National Park, and state parks in California, is one of the most magical places I have ever been. The early morning fog, overwhelming silence and trees beyond belief all add to the surreal feelings experienced while hiking and driving through the park. A raven flew by at one point. It’s wings flapping against the… {read more}
Siuslaw National Forest | Travel (120/556)
August 9, 2016 by Leave a Comment
Stopping at Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, in Siuslaw National Forest, was an unplanned brown sign spotting stop. It’s not uncommon for me to see an unexpected park sign and immediately detour off my planned route. Makes road trips even more fun! Top Five Hikes + Places to Explore Cape Perpetua Scenic Area – enjoy… {read more}
Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls
August 4, 2016 by Leave a Comment
The Columbia River Gorge is one of my favorite stretches in Oregon. Driving along the Historic Columbia River Gorge Highway takes you by ten stunning waterfalls. A must drive route, in my opinion! Bridal Veil Falls Horsetail Falls Latourell Falls Multnomah Falls (one of the tallest in the U.S.) Oneonta Falls Ponytail Falls Shepperd’s Dell… {read more}
