Well, it is day three of this journey to climb-bike-climb from Freel Peak in Lake Tahoe to Mount Whitney. To be honest, I woke up feeling pretty good! My butt was a little bit sore from yesterday’s, but that is to be expected. Thankfully, I was able to soak in a hot spring last night at Travertine Hot Spring in Bridgeport, CA and get a good rest in the van.
Read MoreDouble Rainbow over Emerald Bay in Lake Tahoe
I’ve driven past this bay hundreds of times in my life. I’ve stopped a handful of those. Recently, I made it a priority to stay roadside and explore Emerald Bay so I could understand what makes this place so memorable to others. Well, I must say, I now understand! Emerald Bay, regardless of the time of year, holds an energy that sucks you into its grasp. When you are here, you realize that you can do just about every outdoor activity in one of the most outstanding locations in the world.
Read MoreRoyal Arch Cascade | Yosemite Waterfall Guide
During the spring time in Yosemite National Park, the water-levels are at their highest, as the sun warms the granite and melts the winter snow. As this magical landscape sheds its winter coat, the rushing water flows down waterfalls and cascades. One of those is the Royal Arch Cascade located near the iconic granite arches of Royal Arches. This cascade can only be seen during the springtime as the snow is melting because there is little soil to retain the groundwater. So, what does this mean? Well, imagine the warming sun comes out and the water has no place to go but down! Yup, that is right, Royal Arch Cascade becomes an epic waterslide!
Read More5 Reasons Kenai Lake Should Be On Everyone's Alaska Bucket List
We turned the corner and pointed our headlights for Cooper’s Landing. We didn’t totally have a destination, but knew we wanted to explore the Kenai Peninsula. We got lucky. As we passed Cooper’s Landing, Kristin suggested we take a left down a dirt road to quickly check out this massive lake we just saw. Bumping down the road, we found beaches, free camping, great hiking, and a magical place called Kenai Lake.
Read MoreWhy Crocker Point Is the Most Incredible View In Yosemite National Park
Have you ever stumbled upon a place without knowing what it is supposed to look like and are left completely dumbfounded by its beauty? Well, when I decided to make the hike out to Crocker Point for the first time, that was exactly what happened to me. I didn’t even know this vista point had a name, but I was taken back by its beauty, its grandeur, and the alignment of El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall. All together, my first experience seeing Crocker Point made me realize this underrated vista point might actually be the most incredible view in all of Yosemite Valley.
Read MoreIs Inspiration Point Worth the Hike?
Just a few miles up from Tunnel View is a similar view called Inspiration Point. Some people swear it is better, while others say the hike is not worth the trek. They are both correct. Yosemite Valley has tons of view points that are all similar with just a little bit of difference. Some views are slightly more aligned and some are a bit higher than others, but provide the “same” view. But, that is only if you care about the view at the destination. If you are in Yosemite Valley to hike and explore different spots, taking in the changing views as they come, then does it really matter what the end view is?
Read MoreTackling Lake Tahoe's Triple Link Up | Freel Peak, Jobs Sister, and Jobs Peak
Bumping down the dirt road to the Freel Peak Trailhead, we had a crazy idea in mind. My climbing partner and I, for our rest day, decided it was time to give peak bagging, aka hiking to the top of a peak, a try. Not really sure what we were getting ourselves into we were giddy with excitement. Sleeping the van, I am not sure if either of slept. Maybe it was the lentil soup that bloated our bellies, or maybe, it was the excitement. Regardless, we knew attempting to tackle the Tahoe Triple would be an adventure.
Read MoreOutside Rock Climbing Near Anchorage | Sunshine Ridge (5.7) and More
If you are an avid rock climber and are itching to climb on rock outside, Sunshine Ridge is your answer. Located close to Anchorage, Alaska along the Seward Highway is a wonderful rock climb to gain confidence and learn how to place trad gear. This route is rated 5.7, however most would claim it is something more like 5.5. Without getting into the weeds about grades, the route is fun and has quality rock, which is a surprise for the area.
Read MoreEverything You Need to Know to Kayak on Twin Lakes, Bridgeport
Halfway between Lake Tahoe and Mount Whitney there are two lakes tucked away in the Eastern Sierra mountains filled with fish, readily available fishing, and a glassy waters that are asking to be paddled upon. Located in Bridgeport, California, Twin Lakes are a hidden gem perfect for a weekend get away, or a week long family camping trip. Not only does Twin Lakes have some of the best flatwater kayaking, accessible to all levels of kayakers, but there is stellar hiking, hot springs to soak in, and trees to hang a hammock.
Read More9 Must Do Vacation Ideas in Baja Sur
Fish tacos, a few beers, and sunburns, that is often what Baja Mexico gets its name for, but that isn’t all this 1000 mile peninsula has to offer. The golden beaches often have surf-able waves, the mountains contain waterfalls, and the salty-waters are home to one of the most diverse aquatic biospheres. When you come down to Baja for vacation, you could sit on the beach, or you could make memories that will last you a lifetime when you step a little outside of your comfort zone and head out on an epic adventure.
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