Elevated Exploring

It was dark when we arrived in San Juan. The air was thick and sticky and smelled like the ocean. My ears strained to understand the conversations occurring around us and my lack of comprehension made it apparent how much Spanish I had yet to learn. We hopped in our rental car and with two very unhappy children, exhausted from traveling 10 hours...

As I sit here about to type away my favorite things of Apple Hill, there is one thing that was so delicious that I am contemplating driving back up the hill for. In fact, if I followed my stomach right this moment, I would throw my sleepy eyed children in the back of the car and gas it up the hill at first...

Since having children I have come to appreciate the importance of having options .... "just in case". Packing 2 pairs of socks .... just in case. Bringing extra diapers ... just in case. Planning a hike with a short and a long route ... just in case. Though I may give a weary sigh as I make these "just in case" preparations, I...

It was nearing the end of summer by the time we decided to attempt a greater elevation gain like Donner Peak with our kids. Our son Wyatt, four years old, had hiked almost every weekend the summer leading up to Donner. This summer was his first season that he has hiked entirely on his own two feet versus riding in the pack. This...

The best thing about living in Sacramento is that you are two hours from the mountains and the ocean. Bay area and Point Reyes hiking is stunning with its views of the Pacific, Redwood groves, and hilly terrain. If you're up for a trip to the coast here are three hikes you can't miss. Steep Ravine Trail/ Dipsea At 2,571 feet above sea...

As of now, this hike is our "go-to" hike for whenever family or friends come in town. With a 600' climb towards the end of the hike, it offers enough challenge to satisfy any fitness gurus that may be hiking along with you while still remaining hike-able for younger kids and beginner hikers. The trailhead is located within Camp Sacramento, which is past...