Author: Mira Jin

California has some of the most beautiful cities in America, and I want to help you find the perfect ones to visit. From sunny beach towns to charming mountain escapes, there’s something here for everyone. I’ve put together this list of 11 beautiful California cities after looking at what real travelers love and what locals recommend. No fluff, just honest picks that are actually worth your time. I’ll tell you what makes each place special so you can figure out which ones match what you’re looking for. Maybe you want ocean views, or you’re more into historic streets and good…

Want to see Mount Baker from its best angles? I’ve got you covered. This list breaks down my top 9 favorite hikes in the area. I’ve hiked these trails more times than I can count, and I know which ones are actually worth the drive. You’ll find out what makes each one special, how hard they really are, and what you need to know before you go. I’m not trying to sell you anything here. These are just honest recommendations from someone who loves these mountains and wants you to have a great time out there. Some hikes are tough,…

Old Rag Mountain is one of Virginia’s most popular hiking spots. Thousands of people visit this trail every year to test their skills on the famous rock scramble. But before you head out, you need to know one important thing: how long does it take to hike Old Rag? Most hikers complete the full loop in 6 to 8 hours. This isn’t your typical walk in the woods. You’ll climb steep trails, scramble over giant boulders, and push your body to its limits. In this guide, you’ll learn what affects your hiking time, how each section of the trail works,…

Standing at the edge of West Virginia’s most famous canyon feels like stepping into another world. The New River Gorge offers some of the most beautiful views you’ll find anywhere in the eastern United States, with dramatic cliffs, a winding river, and one of the longest steel arch bridges in the world. If you’re planning a trip to this national park, you’ll want to know which viewpoints give you the best experience. Each new river gorge overlook offers something different, from close-up bridge views to sweeping canyon scenes. This guide covers the top viewpoints you can visit, what makes each…

In this blog, we know more about Yellowstone Lake. The lake covers 136 square miles in Yellowstone National Park. It’s clear waters and mountain views attract millions of visitors every year. Many wonder if it is safe to swim in the lake. Swimming is allowed. But the lake presents serious challenges. The water stays very cold all year. Even in summer, temperatures can be near freezing. Sudden weather changes can make conditions dangerous. Strong winds and waves appear quickly. Visitors should know what to expect. Only experienced swimmers or those with proper gear should enter the water. Staying close to…

Standing beneath Yosemite’s granite cliffs with waterfalls around you shows why this park is so special. With over 15 years of guiding hikers here, I’ve walked every major trail and seen people fall in love with the mountains. This guide lists the best Yosemite hikes by difficulty, moderate, and hard, so you can pick trails that match your fitness and schedule. From short, family-friendly valley walks to challenging climbs, each trail offers unique views. Top hikes include Half Dome, Mist Trail, Glacier Point, and Cathedral Lakes, combining breathtaking scenery with experiences that stay in your memory long after leaving the…

Standing at Glen Pass with crystal-clear alpine lakes spread below me, I knew the Rae Lakes Loop had earned its reputation. As a certified wilderness guide with over 15 years of hiking in California’s High Sierra, I’ve completed this trail three times. The Rae Lakes Loop ranks among California’s top backpacking trips. This 40-mile circle offers granite peaks, pristine lakes, and alpine meadows that showcase the Sierra Nevada at its best. You’ll get my honest trail review, practical planning advice, and insider tips from real experience. This guide shares everything from permit strategies to gear lessons learned on the trail.…

Looking for an epic backpacking trip that won’t eat up months of vacation time? The High Sierra Trail offers the perfect solution for busy hikers who want a taste of thru-hiking without the massive time commitment. This complete guide covers everything you need to know about planning and hiking California’s most famous 72-mile trail. As someone who has hiked this trail and helped hundreds of others plan their trips, I’ll share the insider knowledge that makes the difference between a good hike and an amazing one. What is the High Sierra Trail? The High Sierra Trail is one of California’s…

Hidden deep in Yosemite, the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne is a trail most visitors never see. It offers a rewarding backpacking experience away from crowded day hikes. As a Leave No Trace guide with over 15 years in the Sierra Nevada, I’ve completed this 30-33 mile route four times since 2017 and led 50+ wilderness trips. I’ve worked with backcountry rangers to track trail conditions and safety. This guide is based on field research, staff interviews, and seasonal notes. The 3-4 day hike is tough, with steep climbs and river crossings, but it rewards hikers with waterfalls, swimming spots,…

What if you could reach pristine alpine lakes and towering granite peaks in just 90 minutes from the Bay Area? Desolation Wilderness makes this dream a reality for thousands of backpackers each year. With over 130 crystal-clear lakes, dramatic granite formations, and well-maintained trails, desolation wilderness backpacking provides the perfect introduction to Sierra Nevada adventures.. This guide combines firsthand trail experience with current U.S. Forest Service regulations and proven permit strategies that work when reservations open. You’ll get practical advice based on real camping experiences, common mistakes I’ve seen other backpackers make, and insider tips learned through countless conversations with…