Category: **States We Explored

California Getting It Right!

Posted on by Joy

I’d like to recognize a true achievement by the state and counties of California, namely, their commitment to state parklands and open space preserves set aside for everyone’s enjoyment. On my recent visit to family and friends who live in Santa Clara County, home of Silicon Valley and over one million residents, I visited one of the newest open spaces–the 348-acre Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve in the rolling hills just west of US101. And what could be better than taking this hike with a good friend, so into the mountains we go!

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Continue walking . . .

Walking the Wilds of Bozeman

Posted on by Joy

What to do? Because of the wildfires in Washington, Oregon, and northwest Montana, the smoke hangs in the air like a hazy veil with air quality warnings made visible by fine ash wafting across the landscape. It is 42° with a slight breeze, conditions that make the air quality a bit better first thing in the morning. So grab your jacket and let’s head out the front door for a walk to 12-acre Cattail Lake to see the wilds of Bozeman at sunrise.wild Bozeman

Continue our walk

Newbie in the Jewel

Posted on by Joy

What a beautiful day! Time to explore Jewel Basin, 15,349 acres in the Swan Mountains, west of Glacier National Park in northwest Montana. The Jewel is dedicated to hiking–no bicycles, no horses, and nothing motorized–boasting 27 alpine lakes and 35 miles of trails. Twin Lakes is a five-mile round trip excursion that I can’t resist, so let’s go!

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Continue our walk . . .

Where’s the Beach?

Posted on by Joy

I visit California twice a year to spend cherished time with family and friends, but some of the richest experiences evolve from visiting and walking the Pacific coast. I love the mountains, but the ocean has a call all its own, and I’m hearing that call. Moss Beach, Half Moon Bay, Capitola, Monterey, Carmel, Big Sur–sweeping landscapes with waves crashing against boulders and cliffs that are respites to many sea birds. Growing up on the East Coast we went “down the shore” to beautiful sandy beaches, but on the West Coast we have to hunt for sandy beaches which may already be claimed by seals or sea lions. Today we are going to Big Sur, known for its stunning views along Highway 1. Welcome to Andrew Molera State Park in the Santa Lucia Mountains. Come on–my best friend and I look forward to you joining us on our walk to the coast.

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Onward to the ocean . . .