Tag: hiking

Every January 1, we begin the year by making a resolution with an eye toward self-improvement. Each of us could do a little less...

Plentiful winter rains bring a spring of singular delights: energized creeks, top shelf wildflower displays and green hills that persist through April. As wonderful...

Autumn is a close second to spring as an ideal time to tromp our local hills. While the green grass and flowing creeks are gone, autumn possesses a special languid peacefulness as nature prepares for the arrival of winter.

On a recent Saturday, the Mount Hoffman Challengers met at Monte Bello Open Space Preserve above Palo Alto for the final prep hike prior to our ascent in Yosemite next month. I should describe what a grueling ordeal our six “training” hikes have been, but that would be shameless puffery. The simple truth is we have had a fun winter and spring tromping the local hills. Monte Bello OSP was no exception.

Last winter, I challenged you to join me on a climb up Mt. Tallac this summer. Judging from the attendance at our various prep hikes and the email and Facebook buzz I am getting, many of you have accepted the challenge. Last week, I took a detour on my return from Modoc County and climbed the mountain to refresh my memory.

For 30 years, Renée and I have lived on the west side of Morgan Hill right underneath El Toro mountain. The deer eat nearly everything we plant, and though it has been quite awhile, we have watched the mountain burn twice. In winter, the sun drops behind the mountain at 2:30 in the afternoon, dimming the already short days.

Environmental review continues through next week for plans to

Have you thought about adventuring in the back country, but don't know where to start?