Santa Cruz Mountains & Big Basin Redwoods State Park

California Redwood

John Muir said, "The mountains are calling and I must go." This is how I feel every time I return to the west. The Rockies and Sierra Nevada mountain ranges dwarf the mountains of the east, but there's one smaller mountain range that shouldn't be missed if you're visiting the California coastline–the Santa Cruz Mountains.

Father of the Forest, Big Basin

Home to the tallest living organisms on Earth, Sequoia sempervirens–commonly known as California Redwoods–grow up to 350 feet tall, over 50 feet in circumference, and can live up to 2,500 years. These awe-inspiring, humble giants only grow in northern California and southern Oregon and only 5 percent of this ancient forest remains. The California gold rush and subsequent logging destroyed most of it before 1900.

Nature's Skyscrapers

A mecca for outdoor adventurers, naturalists, and photographers, Big Basin offers spectacular views of the Pacific, waterfalls, and wildlife. Year round camping, hiking, and interpretive campfire programs are among the most popular recreational activities in the park.

Banana Slug

In May 1900, a coalition of journalists, politicians, scholars and others banned together, determined to save what was left of this amazing forest and started California's conservation movement. Established in 1902, Big Basin Redwoods State Park (so named in 1927), is the state's first state park and is comprised of more than 18,000 acres of forest and 80 miles of trails.

Gateway to Big Basin is the small mountain town of Boulder Creek. Built during the 1870's to support the logging industry, this tiny place gives those who pass through a peek into California's history. Six miles south of Boulder Creek on Route 9 is Felton, home of Roaring Camp Railroads. A bit of a tourist attraction, the area's first railroad has offered tours through the Redwoods since 1875.

Ano Nuevo, Butano, and Castle Rock State Parks lie just outside Big Basin and are among the other wonderful State Parks in the Santa Cruz Mountains.

Downtown Big Basin

No matter where you go in Santa Cruz County, the sites are beautiful, the energy is positive, and the vibes are all good.

Santa Cruz Mountains

Rain Brings Hope to Santa Cruz Mountain Residents

Watching the Rain

It's been a long time since it's rained. So long that local residents cannot remember the last time they heard thunder or saw lightening. Somewhat of a freak storm, the November rains of late have been welcomed by California Bay Area residents.

"I can't remember the last time I saw this much rain," Chrissy Hocutt, a long standing Bay Area resident said. "What's left of the grass is actually turning green."

Bay Area residents have been living in severe drought conditions for the past four years. Threats of wildfire have had Santa Cruz Mountain locals on edge, as well as the prediction of El Niño - a weather phenomenon that promises to bring torrential rains and flood waters to California this winter. 

"It's a concern because torrential rains following a long period of drought means a lot of flooding. Because of climate change it will be extreme and dangerous," one local resident predicted.

Long Overdue Rainstorm Comes through Big Basin

While local residents prepare as best they can for what may come they must also prepare for things to continue as they are.

"We don't wash our cars and we've eliminated some of our grass. Most people in our neighborhood are very careful about how much they use. It's just the way it is - we're all in this together," Chrissy said.

Water conservation and environmental preservation is a long-standing tradition in Northern California. Drought tolerant plants, buckets in the shower to catch unused water, and parking lots covered with solar panels are the norm in the Bay Area. People seek sustainable living and keep conservation at the forefront of their lives. From recycling everything, to driving fuel efficient cars, to eliminating waste, California residents are forward-learning when it comes to keeping things green.
The stormy weather brought big swells to Mavericks and Steamers Lane. Surfers were out in droves as good sets rolled in one after the other. 

Surfing Storm Waves at Steamers Lane in Santa Cruz

After nearly two days of rain, sunshine and rainbows blessed the valley; a hopeful sign of better days ahead.

Double Rainbow–A Sign of Hope

Opting in on REI's #OPTOUTSIDE Campaign

REI's #OptOutside Campaign

The US is shameless when it comes to consumerism and nothing illustrates this more than Black Friday. Beginning a few years ago, retailers began opening Thanksgiving Day to jump start the holiday shopping season. This year, millions of shoppers will indulge in this cycle of shopping sickness and I urge you to do something heroic. Don't.

On 27 November, I'm opting in on REI's #OPTOUTSIDE campaign. While I rarely use my blog as political pulpit, I will when it comes to topics I'm passionate about such as enjoying the outdoors, honoring Mother Nature, and living mindfully.

Thanksgiving is a national holiday devoted to giving thanks for the year's bountiful harvest. We pause to celebrate with one another the many gifts we have received the preceding year like food, shelter, warmth, and water. It's also time to honor our relationships with family, friends, neighbors, and most importantly, Mother Nature herself-the giver of all life. And when I say "we" I mean all of us-the collective whole-not just those who work white collar and government jobs. All of us deserve to take part in this festive holiday, retail workers included.

This year, REI is doing something extraordinary, something I would like to see more retailers do-act ethically. The US Supreme Court has decided that corporations are people, therefore, I expect them to act within the laws of human decency. Those who do not will not have my business-sorry Walmart, your unscrupulous business practices cost you my business long ago.

Going to the Mountains is Going Home

Remaining closed on Black Friday is not the only thing REI is doing right however; they are also a promoting healthy, mindful living. Instead of spending your hard-earned dollars buying things, get outside and do something good for yourself. Breathe fresh air, enjoy Mother Nature, get close to the earth. It's FREE and you deserve it.

In a May 2015 letter to members, REI CEO Jerry Stritzke wrote, "We believe an outdoor life is a life well lived. That single, simple idea unites our community, no matter where you’re from or what your political beliefs are. Seeking adventure and finding ourselves in the outdoors drives a virtuous cycle. We believe that life outside is better for us as individuals, better for society and ultimately, better for the planet. That is what unites us at REI." 

Ironically, closing on Black Friday will most likely earn REI even bigger profits. Putting consumer's well-being ahead of profit margins is not only a best business practice, it's common sense. Mindful shoppers pay attention when corporations do things for the common good versus lining their own pockets. Research has shown that companies who care more about their customers than their bottom line are rewarded with greater consumer loyalty, patronage, and overall profits.

REI Tysons Corner, Virginia

Don't take it from me however, think about it and ask yourself, Who would I rather do business with: a company who genuine cares about me, or one who will take my money regardless of whether I'm satisfied?

Remember the basic laws of supply and demand: corporations exists because we buy their products. If a corporation's business practices posit a moral or ethical dilemma, or doesn't put your needs or the needs of its employee's first, then perhaps patronizing them is no longer right. Consumers have the power to decide which companies and corporations gets rewarded in our society-it's not the other way around.

So this year, be bold and #OPTOUTSIDE. Skip Black Friday and do something good for yourself.

Hiking the Camino de Santiago May 2015

New England's Berkshires-an Outdoor Paradise

Frost covered grass glistened with morning dew as the sun peaked over the horizon offering first warmth to the crisp, autumn air. Runners outfitted in jackets and hats passed by the Keene, New Hampshire hotel restaurant, their breath forming puffy white steam clouds against the cobalt sky. I sipped my coffee and secured my favorite North Face wool cap, preparing for the day ahead.

The Berkshires is one of New England's most enchanted places and has been named one of the world's last great places by the Nature Conservancy. Leaf peepers delight in the kaleidoscope of colors, adventurers basque in the wide-array of outdoor pursuits, and apple pickers are in heaven. It's a nature lovers paradise that calls the soul.

Church in the Berkshires

Our first stop on this weekend adventure was the Granville Country Store in Massachusetts. Established in 1851, this historic time warp is home to the finest aged cheddar cheese in New England according to local residents.  "I drive 30 miles to pick up a pound of aged cheddar," said one resident who stopped in while I was there. "It melts in your mouth." I tried some myself and ordered a pound of sharp cheddar. If you have a passion for cheese, this is a must stop when passing through the Berkshires.

Granville Country Store

An hour down the road, we stopped at Toymakers Cafe in Falls Village, Connecticut for hot cider and a homemade lunch. Just off Route 7 and the Appalachian Trail, this is a favorite spot for AT hikers and motorcycle enthusiasts. If you're into vintage bikes and anything British, this is a great spot to warm up and fill your belly. Owners Greg and author Ann Bidou will make you feel right at home.

Toymakers Cafe

Just down the road from Toymakers Cafe is West Cornwall, Connecticut-an idyllic town with postcard-perfect scenery and New England charm. This village, famous for it's iconic covered bridge, has been dubbed the greenest town in Connecticut.

Covered Bridge in West Cornwall, Connecticut

Fly-fish the Housatonic River, snowboard Mohawk Mountain, hike miles of trails or camp in Housatonic Meadows State Park, motorcycle ride scenic zig-zags, or hang out with writers, artist, and classic motor car enthusiasts. It's an outdoor mecca and progressive paradise that calls those who yearn for a simpler way of life.

Fly-fishing the Housatonic River

West Cornwall's Wandering Moose Cafe

Though a bit of a drive from Washington, D.C.,––7 hours––this weekend get-a-way was a perfect Halloween weekend retreat. I invite you to do the same...

Leaving the Berkshires

Clifton, Virginia's Sea of Gold

Autumn in the Woods

I swam in a sea of gold whilst birds sang their morning hymns and winds rustled tree tops. Soft earth under foot, fallen leaves crunched with each step, and I filled my lungs with nature. Sunlight danced like a flickering flame, and I waded, mesmerized by this state of place, and dreamed this moment would never cease.

Sea of Gold

Clifton Haunted Trail and the Return of Bunny Man

Ghost, goblins and ghouls-a Halloween fright fest awaits anyone who dares enter the Clifton Haunted Trail.*

Pick your poison of fright for the night: horrifying clowns, witches burning at the stake, children of the corn slashing victims, dancing skeletons and zombies, or chainsaw murderers chasing down prey. Whatever you fear, you'll find it here.

This walk through the woods is like no other and you'll be glad to have your friends close at hand. The crowd of thousands offers comfort and reminds you...It's not real...it's not real...it's not real...right? Maybe. Never-the-less, you're going to scream. You're going to have your wits put to the test. You are going to be scared!

After you survive this 90-minute adventure and your heart rate has returned to normal, I invite you to check out something that is truly terrifying-something a lot more real. Bunnyman Bridge.

The urban legend of Bunny Man dates back to 1904 when an inmate at the asylum prison in Clifton escaped during a transport accident. Afterward, locals began finding half-eaten rabbit carcasses hanging in trees near the crash site. Later, the police found the remains of a man who had been skinned and hanged in the same fashion under a bridge overpass near the railroad tracks at Colchester Road. The police assumed the escaped prisoner, Douglas J. Grifon, was to blame and dubbed him "the bunny man."During the attempted capture of Grifon, he escaped only to be killed by an oncoming train not far from the original crash site. Wicked laughter was heard coming from the site immediately following his death. Police later learned that Grifon had been institutionalized for killing his wife and children on Easter Sunday. For years following his death, people claimed that near Halloween, dead rabbit carcasses were seen hanging in trees surrounding the accident site and his specter loomed near the bridge.

Though historians believe the story to be bunk, it's also been linked to a more recent set of events which took place on Guinea Road in Burke, Virginia during the 1970's. Victims claim they were assaulted by a man in a bunny suit wielding an axe. More than 50 eyewitnesses reported seeing the bunny man but he was never caught. Who knows, he may still be alive...take a drive and see for yourself...you never know what or who you may find lurking in the dark or under a bridge.

*The Clifton Haunted Trail is a one-night-only production of fear and fun orchestrated to make you scream, laugh, and at times, run for your life. Approximately 200 volunteers put this elaborate adventure together to raise money for the town of Clifton, population less than 300.

Toronto's Distillery Historic District, Harbourfront, and Unionville

Distillery Historic District - Toronto

The Distillery Historic District in Toronto, Canada is a hot spot for food lovers, romantics, and shoppers. This New England style, pedestrian-only village hosts 70 different boutique shops and restaurants that are open all year round. Just a few minutes from the heart of downtown, the Victorian era buildings are host to art galleries, artisan shops, and cafes, and is a must-see when you visit. Mexican food lovers must check out El Catrin Authentic and Modern Mexican. The year-round outdoor eatery keeps its patrons cozy warm with heat lamps and a blazing fire pit.

El Catrin Mexican Eats

Toronto's Harbourfront Centre, nestled on Lake Ontario's coastline, has a variety of things to do all year round; boating opportunities, parks, restaurants and shopping are among the favorites. Walk along the water front and enjoy the sunshine and cool breeze, or catch a ferry to Centre Island for a picnic. Warm autumn weather, gentle afternoon breezes, and free spirited musicians make Harbourfront Centre an inviting place for children to feed the geese and gulls while parents take a breath and enjoy a romantic afternoon on the boardwalk.In the winter, you can ice skate your winter blues away or cozy up inside a cafe or art exhibit.

Toronto's Harbourfront Centre

Children Feeding the Birds Along the Waterfront

Festivals, food, and fun are the heart of the Unionville experience. This historic village located in the City of Markam is a destination favorite for Oktoberfest goers and families spending the long Thanksgiving weekend together. Main street is lined with historic buildings and churches-now home to boutique shops, cafes and dessert stops. Grab coffee and dessert then walk around the lake filled with Canadian Geese and ducks. It's a charming place to spend an afternoon with friends and family and enjoy the outdoors, 20 minutes from the heart of Toronto. 

Bavarian Band Plays at Octoberfest in Unionville

Autumn in Toronto

Camino Continues in Canada

Three pilgrims* reunited in one of the world's most intriguing, must see-places, Niagara Falls. After a four month separation, the trio came together and recalled details of their shared experience on the Camino de Santiago and revealed how their personal journeys have continued...

Ann, Dani, and Pantea

Aside from using kilometers instead of miles and celsius instead of fahrenheit, Canada is not that different from the U.S. Ontario bares a striking resemblance to Michigan and has a bit of small-town New England charm.

Pantea, Ann, and I reunited at Starbucks in Niagara-on-the-Lake, a small historic town about 30 minutes from Niagara Falls. We walked up and down Main, popped into a few shops, and talked about our adventures since the Camino; each of us having made significant career (and a few life) changes.

Niagara Falls

We drove a scenic route to Niagara Falls to spy the foliage turning brilliant shades of gold and red. A tourist hot-spot on a bright, warm three-day weekend in October, the Falls were packed with visitors. We joined the crowds and took in all the popular sites; the Falls, Clifton Hill, and the newest casino. I also paid $8.62 for a grande graham latte at the Starbucks Cafi Sheraton, which I highly recommend avoiding.

Nuns at Niagra

The best thing about being with Pantea and Ann again was it felt like we had never been apart; we picked up where we had left off-walking around, going wherever the spirit moved us. Conversation flowed easily and we were intrigued by the things we saw: nuns taking photographs of the falls with their iPads; a father shooting pictures of his adorable children; birds and animals enjoying the views too, just like in Spain.

Children Smile for A Special Pic

It was though we were still on camino, and I think we agreed that in truth, we are. That's how we've continued to navigate through our lives; our perspectives on what's important have changed. None of us have re-embraced materialism since the Camino. Things that once appealed to us, like shopping, no longer do. We have what we need. We wish to live simply. We want to do something that matters. We care about the environment. We care about people. We want to live a life of peace and happiness. And above all, family and friends are the most important. Relationships matter. We have come to know that what we learned on the Camino-what we learned about ourselves-is far greater than we could have imagined. It was a transformational experience that will remain with us for the rest of our lives.

Trio at Niagara

After a long day, Pantea and I said our good-byes to Ann, and we went our separate ways-but only for now, as we are not really separate after all. Ann is hoping to come to DC in the coming months and Pantea and I talked briefly of taking a trip together to another far-away destination at some point in the future. Until then, our caminos continue...

Pantea and the Blue Moose

*Ann, Dani, and Pantea met while trekking the Camino de Santiago in May. They embarked on the 500-mile backpacking trip, better known as "the Way," for their own reasons, but agree that what they came away with was a lot more than they expected.

Rainbows at Niagara

Getting High in Toronto

Toronto's CN Tower

Before arriving in Toronto Friday, my girlfriend Pantea asked me if I'd like to check out CN Tower. After I said, "Sure!" I Googled it; I had no idea what she was talking about. It was going to be my first time in Toronto-first time to Canada-and like so many other trips I've taken, I had done zero research. Coined as one of man's greatest wonders, the CN Tower is the tallest lightening rod in the world; its glass floor the first of its kind-a tourist must-do for thrill seekers, adventures, and romantics alike. We arrived at the tower just before sunset and looked up. "Let's do this," I said. We bought our tickets and boarded the glass elevator.

Like a ride at an amusement park, the higher we went, the faster my heart beat; the city turned panoramic in 90 seconds. Dozens of thoughts raced through my mind, none of them good, like the fact that there was nothing between me and falling to the ground except this way-too-thin piece of glass. I was suddenly queasy. When the elevator stopped, I stepped off and my knees buckled. I wanted to go back down but forced myself to stay. I can do this... I did the Camino! Surely I can do this. I shuffled to the window and glanced down; tiny hot wheels sat in traffic below while the sun fell below the horizon leaving a warm glow at the edge of the earth. It's peaceful up here, I thought.

View from CN Tower

Pantea and I walked down to the glass floor. Pantea stood on it and I backed away. There was nothing between her and the earth 1,122 feet down except that sheet of glass. This I will not do! I got on my knees, laid my phone on the glass, took a picture, then quickly backed away. I was queasy again. Wow!

Pantea Braves Glass Ceiling

Inside the tower, the 360 and Horizons restaurants are popular places to pop the question. If you want to get higher still, you can check out the view from the sky pod, the highest observation deck at 447 meters. Adrenaline junkies will definitely want to do the edge walk-356 meters high, outside, no railings, provided winds aren't too strong. Lucky for us it was too windy to go outside...

"I have officially scratched sky-diving off my bucket list," I told Pantea. "I think this offered enough adrenaline. I don't need to jump out of a plane."

Above Toronto

Bikes and Breakfast in Clifton, Virginia

Today was the first cold, crisp morning in many months-the first sign of relief from the oppressive Virginia summer. The chilly air-still damp from yesterday's rains-smelled of wet leaves, dirt, and fresh pine. The breeze tickled my bare neck, giving me goose bumps all over. Sundays like this are made for motorcycling. I donned my jeans, long socks, leather jacket and boots and hopped on the back of my boyfriend's bike.

Out here, windy, two-lane roads weave through open pastures and thick woods-leaving the city a thousand miles away, long forgotten. We rode to historic Clifton where hundreds of other motorcycle enthusiasts converge every second Sunday* of the month for Bikes and Breakfast. Riders from throughout the Washington Metro Area congregate in this charming setting to share their passion for motorcycles.

Bikes and Breakfast in Clifton, Virginia

Vintage Nortons and BSAs, Urals, Motto Guzzis, Harley Davidsons and everything in between line Main Street and fill parking lots. Riders mill about, coffee in hand, talking with other riders while local shop keepers and restaurateurs greet riders with small town southern hospitality.

Vintage Norton

Vintage Bikes Line Main Street

There is something here for everyone, including non-riders and children. Bicyclist ride through town, joggers pass by, and families with children and dogs stop to check out the array of brightly painted two-wheelers.

Clifton Cafe AKA The Crepe Place

Foodies can stop at the Clifton Cafe, more affectionately known as "The Crepe Place," for breakfast and a cup of joe, or the General Store and Main Street Pub for a hardy meal and a beer. And for dessert, Peterson's Ice Cream Depot may be just the right spot.

Peterson's Ice Cream Depot

Whether you are into bikes, food, or just looking for something to do, Historic Clifton is a wonderful place to spend a Sunday morning. It's a laid back, free affair in the heart of a tiny hide-away town in a big, busy place. It's a great way to get away without going away.

Dani and Steve

*The next Bikes and Breakfast in Clifton will be 3 October, the first Sunday of the month.