Sidney, Author at Journey to All National Parks

Redwood National and State Parks Part Two: Forest and Coastal Beauty

September 6, 2017 Sidney National Parks

The next morning, we worried because as we left the hotel, it rained steadily. We decided to just go and see what happens, hoping the rain would let up. A very friendly volunteer ranger at the Prairie Creek Visitor Center encouraged us to go on a hike anyway, even in the light rain because it was even more magical with the rain. I wasn’t sure what she was talking about but because she was so enthusiastic, we listened to her. I bundled up by putting on my water resistant black Columbia jacket and the recently purchased water repellent hat. Loretta didn’t have a water repellent jacket but she took the umbrella and we set out on a three mile hike through Prarier Creek trail and the Foothills trail.

SSC_1143 Tall Redwood at Redwood National and State Parks

Redwood National and State Parks Part One: Tallest Tree and Elk

August 30, 2017 Sidney National Parks

We left the artsy town of Arcata on a cloudy morning and drove past forests, lagoons and beaches to arrive at Kuchel Visitor Center where we did our National Park business. The temperature was cool and visitors few at this visitor center by the sea. The ranger suggested many short and mid-distance hikes of different kinds which was more than we could do – a great sign. He also suggested many scenic spurs from the highway 101, the main thoroughfare through the park and several towns.

SSC_1119 Lassen Volcanic National Park Manzenita Lake

Lassen Volcanic National Park: All Types of Volcanos in One Place

August 23, 2017 Sidney National Parks

We knew snow covered most of the park well into July, so we were taking our chances to visit in mid-May. The huge snowbanks were a “wow” sight for us southerners and an attraction in its own right. Seeing is believing and we now appreciate why it takes so long to clear the road.

Kings Canyon National Park Featured Photo

Kings Canyon National Park: A Hidden Gem

July 21, 2017 Sidney National Parks

Before our visit to Kings Canyon National Park, we didn’t know what to expect. What we found was a hidden gem that was very enjoyable to visit, with beautiful canyon scenery, and solitude.

Sequoia National Park: Giants Standing Guard

July 14, 2017 Sidney National Parks

People come to Sequoia National Park to see giant trees, and they won’t be disappointed. But Sequoia National Park is much more than giant trees. The scenery of the Sierra-Nevada mountain range and the tranquility of walking under the canopy of the giants are extremely enjoyable.

Joshua Tree National Park Featured Photo

Joshua Tree National Park: Rock Piles and Joshua Trees

July 7, 2017 Sidney National Parks

Joshua Tree National Park, as the name implies, has plenty of Joshua trees and interesting desert plants. The rock piles are unique and a lot of fun to climb. Joshua Tree National Park’s popularity is shooting through the roof, increasing by 30% in the last two years. This is straining its resources. The park is fun, approachable, and close to the Los Angeles metro area.

Grand Canyon National Park: Grand in every way – depth, length, temperature extremes and crowds

June 30, 2017 Sidney National Parks

Grand Canyon National Park is grand in every way. The canyon, essentially a huge hole in the ground, is breathtaking the first time you see it. The scale of Grand Canyon is unlike any other. This attracts grand crowds, especially the South Rim.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park: Geared for Hikers

May 26, 2017 Sidney National Parks

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is the “other” National Park in Texas. It doesn’t get many visitors because it specializes in hiking and hiking requires work. For those who love hiking, this park offers great scenery as reward for the effort. Windy The forecast said it was a sunny day, temperature[…]

Journey to All 63 National Parks: Start of a Great Adventure

December 28, 2016 Sidney General, Reference

All 63 National Parks? Why? We are blessed to have such variety and natural beauty in the USA. The most beautiful sites are preserved in the 63 National Parks. This is one of the best ideas for the common good – to preserve and share the beauty of our country. My[…]

Body, Mind and Soul

December 8, 2016 Sidney General

National Park inspires. It floods the senses, exercises the muscles, expands the mind, and enriches the soul. Driving into the park, the scenery gets more beautiful and all of the sudden, you come upon a grand vista that is simply a visual feast. You pull over and get out to get a closer