On Top of the World at Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park

Moro Rock, Sequoia National Park, CaliforniaFrom day hikes to overnight wilderness trips, warm foothills to cold alpine peaks, from largest and finest groves of giant sequoias to the extraordinarily diverse plants and animals living in extremely varied conditions, the experiences in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks are vast. I wanted to take it all in from an extreme vantage point and Moro Rock was the ideal high point. A stone and concrete stairway led to the top of this granite dome. From the top, I enjoyed sweeping views of the hills below and the wilderness to the east.  Continue reading

Horsing Around at Drakesbad Guest Ranch

Sunset at Drakesbad Guest Ranch, Lassen Volcanic National ParkLast week during our northern California trip to Shasta Cascade area, we stayed in cabins, camped in tents, slept in a loft next to a river, hiked to mountain tops and deep valleys, explored caves, kayaked rivers, and had close encounters with birds and bats. There were tons of first time experiences and opportunities for adventure, but the best part of the trip was horseback riding at Drakesbad Guest Ranch. Athena rode on horses before but I have a feeling this is the one that she’ll remember.  Continue reading