A hike to the geothermal area in Lassen Volcanic National Park known as "Bumpass Hell" in 2015 revealed a smorgasbord of hiking styles: prepared, not prepared, polite, rude, curious, oblivious, observant, selfish, selfless, etc. So let's count down the winners (and losers)! THE GOOD 3. THE CHIPMUNK WHISPERER = This young girl makes the list despite breaking a cardinal rule of the … Continue reading Bumpass Hikers: The Good
Author: Camp Host Chad
Opportunity Knocks (Me Around)
Two years ago, a trip to Lassen Volcanic N.P. coalesced into a definitive experience, a perfect fusion of the right factors, the right place, and the right time. Out of that experience, I determined to refocus my writing around my passions, a decision which eventually led to this blog. The connections on that Lassen trip ultimately … Continue reading Opportunity Knocks (Me Around)
Thursday Thoughts on the Trees: Stumped!
Now then, where were we? We were discussing something I love, now gone... No, that's not right. Oh yeah, now I remember! TREES! (No, not those trees above, but still... Good trees.) Previously on "Trees, Glorious Trees," I verified the tree service being done at my condo complex was tree trimming, not tree removal, then (remember the … Continue reading Thursday Thoughts on the Trees: Stumped!
Wednesday Words on the Wild: Trees
I am the Lorax. I speak for the trees. I speak for the trees, for the trees have no tongues. And I'm asking you, sir, at the top of my lungs. Oh please do not cut down another one. ~ Dr. Seuss, The Lorax A friend of mine calls food his "love language," which is … Continue reading Wednesday Words on the Wild: Trees
In Memorium: Peter Lassen
The grave and headstone and monument for Peter Lassen, after who Lassen Volcanic National Park was named, are located in a funky little semi-private graveyard outside Susanville, CA. You can see both to the right and left of the tree directly behind the gate. The building you see shelters the monument: The link above to his grave (California Historical … Continue reading In Memorium: Peter Lassen
Book Review: Island of the Blue Dolphins
Cover photo courtesy of Kelley McMorris Mention Island of the Blue Dolphins, and almost everyone says "I love that book!" You either know it and love it, or you need to read it so you can love it. Definitely don't go here (SPOILERS) first. End of review. Anyway, imagine my surprise at finding this: http://islandofthdolphins.weebly.com/ ...a … Continue reading Book Review: Island of the Blue Dolphins
In Memorium: Juana Maria
At the end of Island of the Blue Dolphins, (SPOILER ALERT) the main character named Karana is rescued from the island after years of surviving there on her own. The story continued... The real woman who inspired the 1960 book by Scott O'Dell became widely known as "The Lone Woman of San Nicolas Island." As … Continue reading In Memorium: Juana Maria
Dewey Death-imal System
Do you love cemeteries? I do. Peaceful. Clean. Organized. The people in neat rows, like checked boxes on a To-Do list. Except, sometimes they are not so organized... (At the orderly cemetery pictured above, it took me at least fifteen minutes to find who I was looking for, even with the help of a map.) Speaking of maps, … Continue reading Dewey Death-imal System
Starry Night Skies Over Yosemite
Going to Yosemite soon? I highly recommend the "Starry Night Skies over Yosemite" program: http://www.travelyosemite.com/things-to-do/evening-programs I see they now have a Glacier Point program available since I went last. I've long meant to write more about the starwatching, a "part two" to this post, a "pro" to the parking "con." Anyone want to place a bet on whether I … Continue reading Starry Night Skies Over Yosemite
Book Review: Our True Nature
Our True Nature: Finding a Zest for Life in the National Park System by Audrey Peterman perfectly serves one defined purpose: as an inspirational guidebook to the uninitiated national park traveler. Filled with gorgeous photos, personal experience intros, basic directions, lodging recommendations, and highlighted activities for 57 locations in the national park system (grouped by … Continue reading Book Review: Our True Nature
Campfire Tales 