Are You That Woman

Wildflowers adorn California landscapes

Springtime can be missed in a blink; however those with open eyes won’t miss the orchestra of colors that carpet California hillsides, meadows and landscapes with wildflowers.  With thousands of varieties and numerous habitats, climates and terrain, the blooms are as varied and unique as California itself.

With most of the state experiencing an unusually wet winter, these “uncultivated  flowering plants” should be bountiful in coming months. Early spring (February–April) is the opportune time to view desert blooms. Red Rock Canyon State Park is a juxtaposition of rock formations with vivid blossoms amidst beaver tail cactus and white blooming Joshua trees and yuccas. Early spring trekkers will be treated  to desert candles, lilies and asters, wooly sunflowers and Indian paintbrush. The Coachella Valley Nature Preserve, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and Death Valley National Park also showcase their share of seasonal color and are already flourishing.

To be immersed in true California color, the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve near Lancaster in Los Angeles County consists of seven miles of trails through 1,745 acres of golden petals.

Wildflowers generally peak March through early June, however an abundant snow pack will extend the Sierra Nevada wildflower season into the summer months. For late spring through summer viewing, head to higher elevations. Fish Slough and Lake Sabrina in Bishop are popular viewing areas in the Eastern Sierra.

When you think of wildflower viewing, do you ever imagine lying on your belly to see those colorful blooms? At Baldwin Lake Ecological Reserve adjacent to Big Bear Lake come prepared to get horizontal. Often called belly plants, this unique variety of wildflowers are so small you may need to put your nose to the ground to see them.

San Mateo’s Edgewood County Park and Natural Preserve in the San Francisco Bay Area flourishes with blue larkspurs and lupines, pink shooting stars, white fairy lanterns and red paintbrush. Marin’s Chimney Rock at Point Reyes National Seashore showcases yellow goldfields, blue irises, poppies and Point Reyes chocolate lilies. Other popular locations in the Bay Area include the Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve near Novato and Napa’s Missimer Snell Valley Wildflower Preserve, where onlookers can appreciate the vibrant hues from the road.

North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve in Butte County transforms into an endless sea of color and is one of the region’s premier viewing areas. The paths that lead you there (Highway 70, Cherokee Road), are equally spectacular. Many are con­vinced that the biggest wild­flower show in Butte Coun­ty is found north of Table Moun­tain at Chico’s Bid­well Park. 

Also in Butte County, Oroville’s North Ther­mal­i­to Fore­bay is easily reached. The paved path wrap­ping around Rat­tlesnake Hill is also wheel­chair acces­si­ble allow­ing vis­i­tors to enjoy spring wild­flow­ers with ease. This 1.2-mile loop may be short but it includes one of the most photogenic spots in Butte Coun­ty — the Sut­ter Buttes ris­ing behind the North Forebay’s footbridge. What do you do when it starts to heat up in the Sacra­men­to Val­ley but you still want more wild­flow­ers? Head to the foothill region! Par­adise Lake keeps the bloom going into May and June with for­est favorites like lupine, bleed­ing heart, and flow­er­ing dog­wood trees. Pack a picnic and bring chairs to enjoy a respite at lake's edge.

Discover greater wildflower adventures at California State Parks and Jepson Prairie Preserve in Solano County.

If my Subaru can't get me there, 
that's a good reason not to go!

Wildflowers Arrive at Jepson Prairie Preserve

Wondrous Wildflowers & Amazing Aquatic Critters at Jepson Prairie Coming Soon in 2024  

Wildflower season is coming, and Solano Land Trust’s Jepson Prairie docents are getting ready to share the first wave of vernal pool flowers. Weather permitting, there will be two-hour guided walks starting in the spring.

A vernal pool is a world of exceptional diversity and an ecological system of great complexity, and Jepson Prairie Preserve is one of the best remaining examples of vernal pools in all of California. Enjoy an easy, meandering walk under wide-open skies with knowledgeable docents while exploring the bunchgrass prairie and walking alongside the claypan vernal pools. The prairie is transformed by winter rains into fields of stunning wildflowers including white meadowfoam, yellow carpet, and miniature lupine. Docents will also introduce you to the rare aquatic animals, all on the Endangered Species list, that live in the ephemeral pools, including vernal pool fairy shrimp, Conservancy fairy shrimp, and the larvae of the California tiger salamander.

Jepson Prairie Preserve, a designated National Natural Landmark, is located on Cook Lane, off Highway 113, about ten miles south of Dixon and eight miles north of Highway 12. Stay tuned for details about dates, times, location, price, and contact information. Participants should bring a backpack with plenty of water, and snacks or a picnic lunch. They should wear boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes, layered clothes, and protection from the elements. It is often windy at Jepson Prairie, and they should be prepared for wet trails and the chance of fog. Rain may cancel. Visitors should bring drinking water and may also want to bring a hand lens, binoculars and a camera. For directions and additional details, visit solanolandtrust.org.

Since its founding in 1986, Solano Land Trust has permanently protected more than 20,000 acres of working farms and natural areas in Solano County.  Learn more, see a full list of outdoor adventures, and become a member at www.SolanoLandTrust.org. 

What: Docent-led tours of the Jepson Prairie Preserve
Who: Solano Land Trust & Jepson Prairie Docents
When: Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to noon - dates and days to be determined. 
Where: Jepson Prairie Preserve, Intersection of Highway 113 and Cook Lane, 13 miles south of Dixon. Go straight at flashing light onto Cook Lane, gravel road.
Why: See the wondrous wildflowers and amazing aquatic invertebrates of Jepson Prairie.

Come home to Winters and the Abbey House Inn

Seize the day and make the most of every moment! I breathe this philosophy. Finding every possible excuse to get out, explore, and experience the world beyond my county borders. I never judge any book by its cover. I turn every page, open each door, turn down all back roads and share countless stories. When I began writing about Yolo County, I did what I always do, adopted the towns and its people. I made the place my own, as if I had always lived there. In return, my new family of friends adopted me. Home is where the heart is and mine is often in Yolo County. For this adventure, home was the tiny burg of Winters, California.

Warm and comfortable, the Abbey House Inn was like coming home; especially if you love small-town life. Every detail! Nothing was overlooked. Intimate seating areas throughout the house, garden and porches. This is not a bed and breakfast in the traditional sense. Breakfast is not cooked to order; it’s strictly DIY (do-it-yourself). All types of snacks, beverages, cereals, yogurts, jams, jellies, breads, and eggs (uncooked and hard boiled) are there for the taking. Dining room or alfresco, it's up to you.

First constructed in 1905 to house the priests at nearby St. Anthony Parish, the two-story, Victorian Abbey House was moved to its present location where it was restored in 2002. Under new ownership since 2017, Abbey House Inn has been meticulously decorated and outfitted to address your every need including free WiFi and flat-screen TVs. Pam and Eric Tavenier, the owners, embrace my "feels like home" mantra.

A park and walk destination, all the best foods, brews, wines and spirits are within walking distance of the Abbey House Inn. After settling into our room, we enjoyed a quiet beer and glass of wine on the front porch before strolling over to relax at Hooby's Brewing including a few tosses at the new indoor cornhole arena. Locally owned and operated by twin sisters Courtney and Jackie, the brewery opened April 1, 2019. You'll feel like family once you arrive. Other Winters favorites, Steady Eddy’s Coffee House and Ficelle, are next door.  Bike rides often start from Steady Eddy’s and Velo City Bicycle Center. There are a wide array of locally owned dining and wining experiences just blocks away.

We also enjoyed an afternoon with the Boone family at Patio29 Spirits Company Distillery. We tasted a wide range of products and came away with a bottle of their fabulous Yolo County Craft Vodka and Twin Mischief Aged Rum.

Life is good at the Abbey House Inn and Winters.

 

Originally published in the Mountain Democrat.

International Sportsmen’s Expo, Sacramento 2024: Great outdoor adventures for everyone

Each year in early December, the television commercial would appear. A trumpeting elk buck and images of people rushing off to that annual rite of passage known as the International Sportsmen’s Expo, Sacramento. With a very heavy lean towards fishing and hunting pursuits, informed regulars know it as the “hook and bullet” show. Clearly popular, the Cal Expo parking lots are packed each of four days. I have a passion for California and outdoor recreation, but had resisted joining the throngs. I don’t hunt. And while I have enjoyed a few fly-fishing excursions including California’s Lower Owens River and Montana’s Big Horn River, I am hardly the avid angler. In 2013, I was an ISE virgin. My curiosity got the best of me and decided to take the plunge. Years later, no longer a novice, 2024 extravaganza will offer new exploits.

The energy at the show is palpable. Vast exhibit halls and numerous outdoor displays house hundreds of vendors, seminars and demonstrations. Come well-rested, wear comfortable shoes and bring a schwag backpack and your outdoor adventure spirit. I am not squeamish, but am aware there’s plenty of taxidermy and maneuver around some of those exhibitors. My love for the outdoors is more than sated by the wealth of hiking, biking, kayaking, off-roading, camping, boating and (yes) even cooking and food suppliers. Remember, the show is H-U-G-E! Despite the Expo map and exhibitor listings, it can be challenging locating certain vendors or displays. Wandering the aisles and buildings is half the fun, but a plan of attack is highly recommended.

Representatives from some of my favorite California destinations attend the ISE Sacramento. A devotee of the Eastern Sierra, I customarily make a beeline to Mono County Tourism and look forward to time with Visit Bishop. At the California Delta Chambers and Visitors Bureau booth, I’m reminded that many extraordinary adventures are in my own backyard. These folks know all the hidden gems. Lots of people vacation in the same place and never venture anywhere else. The ISE provides new perspectives for birding, photography and wilderness outings. Even for this seasoned traveler, there’s plenty to learn and vendors are eager to answer all questions.

I look forward to connecting with CalOHA (California Outdoor Hospitality Association) who will be back with their just-published free Camp-California guide. CalOHA will teach you to “camp like a pro”- with pets, outdoors like a pro, cook like and campfire like a pro, and learn campground etiquette.   

Anyone who wants to go outdoors—first-timer to expert—should attend. For newcomers, the Expo is the perfect trailhead to adventure. Many destinations sportfishing and hunting, but most lodges and resorts offer other activities from boating and watersports, to hiking and other fun things for couples or the entire family. Visitors can research and book trips—in California, around the West, or to Mexico, Canada, Alaska and Africa.

What can you expect to see and do? Half of the several-hundred exhibiting exhibitors spotlight destinations. The other half sells new outdoor gear. This is also the largest sportfishing-boat show in Northern California. There are four sit-down areas:  Adventure (hunting) and Fishing theaters, a giant bass-filled Demo Tank, and a Sporting-Dog Arena—all with free hourly seminars. Three retailers have set up large stores:  Fisherman’s Warehouse, Fly Fishing Specialties, and Turner’s Outdoorsman. California Department of Fish & Wildlife has indoor and outdoor displays, where folks can talk face-to-face about anything and everything outdoors in the state. And kids can climb a rock wall, catch and release a trout, tie a fly, try archery, learn shooting safety, race in a Pinewood Derby, build robots, and play a variety of games!

Yes, it's true. At the International Sportsmen’s Exposition, I’ll run out of time before I run out of fun. My favorite Costa sunglasses are an ISE regular. I’ll drool over dozens of kayaks and recreational vehicles. I’ll be tempted to plan another Alaska or maybe a houseboat vacation. The possibilities are endless. 

Check the schedules, arrive early, and stay all day! For more information:  www.sportsexpos.com/attend/sacramento

Originally published in Mountain Democrat.

Autumn in Lake County

Harvest days are cooler and shorter. Internal clocks are winding down making this the perfect time to retreat.  Autumn leaf peepers should head north to Lake County for a restful and multihued ride. Avoid many miles of Interstate 5 by dialing-in your GPS to tranquil country roads. Meander up Highway 16 to Esparto, through Capay Valley and Cache Creek Canyon – stunning any time of year. Turn left on Highway 20 and follow winding roads to Lake County.

What to do? What to do?
Black, golden and red oaks, dogwoods, cottonwoods, and red maples deliver a colorful display through mid-November. From locals in the know – Cobb Mountain packs a wallop during leaf-peeper season. Vineyards and orchards put on a beautiful show this time of year. The Big Valley of Kelseyville is also recommended. Fall colors are weather dependent, so don’t be disappointed if foliage deities don't provide. Lake County has plenty of attractions to fill your days.

Rodman Slough County Park offers kayaking and wildlife and nature enthusiasts a surreal adventure. Sensitive wetland areas and oak woodlands shelter a variety of wildlife including great blue heron, great egrets and double-crested cormorants, osprey and grebes. Saturday self-guided walks are available at nearby Rodman Preserve from 9am to noon.

For the strong of heart, hiking Mount Konocti County Park is a must. Opened in 2011, it is Lake County’s largest park. A landscape of mostly dense chaparral and beautiful Canyon Live Oak trees, this dormant ancient volcano provides stunning views from an elevation of 4,300 feet. 

Pillow Talk!
Camping isn’t for everyone, but Clear Lake State Park might convert you. RV or tent camping is great for groups and includes ADA accessible facilities including Kelsey Creek Trail’s 1,500-foot boardwalk. Clear Lake fosters stress-reducing and family-friendly recreational opportunities. Hiking, boating, biking, fishing, bird-watching, or relaxing in the shade. Can’t disconnect? There’s Wi-Fi access.

In Upper Lake, the historic Tallman Hotel is beautifully restored and fabulously LEED green. Lodging includes an expanded continental breakfast featuring fresh fruits and homemade granola, jams, and scones. Enjoy fantastic fare, libations, and live blues at Blue Wing Saloon. The Tallman’s state-of-the-art heating systems are delivered from geothermal sources. Learn more about this natural process at The Geysers in Middletown, the largest geothermal power plant in the world.

For something completely different, Featherbed Railroad Bed & Breakfast Resort’s nine caboose guest rooms contain full baths and comfortable featherbeds. Relax and enjoy great outdoor adventures.

Repast!
Local farms and seasonal farm stands and farmers markets provide fresh fruits and vegetables, farm eggs, goat cheese, and wine! The vineyards are especially pretty during the fall. Sustainably-farmed and 100% organic, Shannon Ridge Mountain Estate Vineyards grow at higher elevations in Clear Lake Oaks. Their wines are available at The Mercantile in Kelseyville.  

Restaurants that focus on fresh fare are available countywide. Family-owned and operated, comfort foods, beautiful views, color-draped landscapes, and fresh air all score high on the escape scale. Here are a few favorites: Angelina’s Bakery & Espresso, Blue Wing Saloon Restaurant, Park Place, Saw Shop Gallery Bistro, and Studebakers Café & Deli.

Fun Facts
Clear Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake in California, with 63 square miles of surface area, and more than 100 miles of shoreline. Estimated at 2.5 million years old, it is thought to be the oldest lake in North America — and quite possibly the world. Lake County has the cleanest air in California as certified by the State’s Air Resources Board.

For more information, visit:  www.LakeCounty.com

Wild Rivers Coast: There’s a reason why

The sun was barely breaking through when fog began rolling in across the mouth of the Smith River. Where river and ocean unite – feels holy. Harbor seals, almost ghostly, gaze out across the shallow. A community of cormorants Zen(ly) attempt drying their wings. Brown pelicans and American oystercatchers share the spit. A lone angler casts again and again. He confides it’s been rumored salmon are running better on the Rogue and Klamath rivers. Still, he’s content. I watch with quiet respect and retreat once my camera is satiated.

Some 30 miles away, we walk a considerable sandspit separating the Klamath River from the Pacific Ocean. One more peaceful world, the lone inhabitants strolling or sitting quietly, we reverently contemplate this sacred space. The tide is returning and waves crash to the shore. A swift undertow – the cold water just licks my naked feet as I scramble away.  The Klamath has journeyed far – 263 miles from Southern Oregon – to wed itself to the churning ocean.

 

Falling for Yosemite Autumn is Awesome

Even during these trying Covid times, for most travelers, Labor Day signaled the unofficial end of summer. Vacations are over. Kids are back in school. It's the last bona fide summer holiday weekend and, from this point forward it's a slow, steady slide into the New Year.

Fall Equinox occurs around September 23rd each year. The sun crosses the celestial equator, from north to south, heralding the end of summer marking the official start of autumn. Days are getting shorter; shadows are longer; nights are cooler, and you can feel the change in the air. It's inspirational! It's also one of the best and most inspired times of year to visit Yosemite National Park!

When it comes to visiting Yosemite, fewer travelers visit in this off-season. Annually, millions of people throng to see the splendor of the granite cliffs, cascading falls, giant sequoias, and the grandeur made famous by the likes of John Muir and Ansel Adams. During late spring and throughout the summer months, Yosemite is teeming with guests from around the world. There's more traffic and making lodging reservations, especially within the park, can be a challenge. Post-summer, the visitor tide ebbs, and the park begins an unhurried progression into a seasonal hibernation. Fewer cars on the roads in, out, and around the park, are definitely a big plus. The availability of lodging – at all levels – is much more attainable.

Autumn weather remains comfy with daytime temps warm enough for shorts and river sandals; nights can be chilly but cozy – even more so as the fall season evolves. Changes in temperatures and weather should be considered when packing. Better to err on the conservative side – the layered approach is usually best – and remember, rain and early snows are always a possibility; come prepared.

Yosemite Valley is famous for its colorful dogwoods – shades of pink and red; and California live oaks turn a golden amber color mid-October to November. Throughout the season aspens adorn themselves with seasonal hues. The onset of autumn colors can't be timed. Lengthening nights and colder temperatures signal the change. So in other words, later in the season is better but is no guarantee. In the solitude and calm of the autumn season, you can be assured that Yosemite will not disappoint even the most ardent leaf peeper. Look for the landmark blazing red sugar maple near Yosemite Chapel. Take Tioga Road along the Merced River for some of the best fall foliage photo-ops.

Visitors should keep an eye out for mule deer and coyotes, which are now seen frequently as they move from the higher elevations of the Sierra Nevada down into Yosemite Valley. Bears should always be a concern – though not as frequently sighted. Do not leave any food or sunscreen, toothpaste, shampoo, lotion, gum, candy, and any other items that have a scent in your car. If camping, be certain to take precautions and use food storage lockers.

From Sacramento and foothill locations, you have easy access to one of California's most scenic byways, Hwy. 49. There's no better way to begin this fall foliage sojourn. As fall flourishes, sightings of color along Hwy. 49 are clearly an added attraction to this multi-hued escape.  Also known as the Golden Chain Heritage Corridor, Hwy. 49 passes through charming and historic towns. Allow time to enjoy the sights and an occasional stop at towns along the way. Amador City, Sutter Creek, Angels Camp, Sonora, and others offer outstanding opportunities for shopping, sightseeing, and maybe a fresh-baked loaf of bread or a glass of wine. California's past lives on in these Gold Rush-era gems. If you choose to bypass downtown Sonora's two-lane traffic, a detour on Rawhide Road saves about 15-20 minutes of driving time. It's always best to travel with a detailed map as cell service can still be spotty.

Hwy. 49 has more than its share of twists and turns and slow-moving vehicles. Relax and enjoy the ride. Remember, getting there is half the fun. If you've never driven to Yosemite via Hwy. 120 you may want to avoid Old Priest Grade. This incredibly steep, two-mile stretch of road is not for the weak-of-heart. We love it and wouldn't think of going any other way, but never with a trailer or motor home! Think about staying on Hwy. 120 on the west side of the canyon. This will meet Old Priest Grade at the top. About a six-mile trek, the New Priest Grade bypass is longer and somewhat winding, but the stress-free ascent can easily accommodate trailers and motor homes as it's the preferred route for tour buses.

If heading down the "vertical” Old Priest Grade, make sure your brakes are in good working order.

Hwy. 120 passes through the Gold Rush-era town of Groveland, an excellent pit-stop or place to stay outside the park if that's your choice. The 3-diamond Groveland Hotel has been greeting guests since 1849. All the rooms have been completely updated and are twenty-first century fresh. The new Groveland Provisions Taproom & Bourbon Bar provides small bites and libations.  The Iron Door Saloon claims to be the longest continuously operated drinking establishment in California. About 23 miles away is the Big Oak Flat entrance to the Yosemite National Park and you'll be required to purchase a $35 vehicle pass, valid for seven days.

Tip! Be sure to gas up before heading into Yosemite Valley. The last chances are in Big Oak Flat, Groveland, and Yosemite Lakes Road (Hardin Flat). There is another chance for fuel at Crane Flat inside the park.  Yosemite Valley Shuttles are not running in 2021. Check schedules for YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System.

 

Rearview Images

As we drive away from snow-crested Sierra,
Images of where we're going
Are not so beautiful as rearview images
Of where we've been.

April 2, 2006

Saratoga Revealed

California byways never disappoint. Interstates and boulevards wind their way through the outskirts of San Jose to Big Basin Way and Saratoga Village. The small-town charm and pedestrian-friendly Main Street beckons visitors to walk and explore Saratoga's finest dining, wine tasting, art galleries, and fabulous retail. 

Close by, performing arts venues provide astounding entertainment including year-round and seasonal top-name performers. Historic gardens, hiking, horseback riding, wineries, and breathtaking views are just a few distractions to bring you back again and again.

Unwind and Snooze
Many years ago, Saratoga Oaks Lodge shed its 1955 motel cocoon and turned into a beautiful butterfly. From a single-queen room to two-room suites, it’s the ideal hibernation destination. Treehouse bungalows accommodate couples or groups; the perfect haven to de-stress following the day’s explorations. In-room whirlpool bathtubs and steam-bath showers help you find your bliss. Shaded by majestic oaks, balconies and garden patios are a joy any season. Amenities include microwave, mini-fridge, coffeemaker, free Wi-Fi, and modified continental breakfast.

Utterly tranquil, pour yourself into village wine tasting rooms Cinnabar Winery, Roudon Smith Winery, Ruth Roberts Wine Collective, and Uncorked.  Walking makes designated drivers obsolete. Nothing goes better with wine than luscious, handcrafted chocolates. Yes, this sinful pleasure is close enough to see and taste at Plumed Horse Chocolaterie by Angelica. Chocolate addicts, this is your new home. Angel’s career as a certified chocolatier was divine intervention. An artist since childhood, she taught herself the fine art and science of chocolate. Delicate works of art, each chocolate gem is hand-painted with colored cocoa butter. Angel created all the recipes - more than 25. Some of the favorites include salted caramel, passion fruit, jalapeno, strawberry, and Sprinkles are for Winners in the shape and flavor of a baby donut. 

Vineyards, Views & Performing Arts Preview
On the edge of the Santa Cruz Mountains, zigzagging and sometimes precipitous roads lead from Saratoga Village to stunning vistas, hidden gardens, and a captivating villa and chateau, vineyards, and tasting rooms. Be swept away by the magic!

Arriving at the regal Mountain Winery, you immediately understand why Paul Masson – the original owner – called it his "vineyard in the sky". Views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and Silicon Valley below are inspirational. A Saratoga landmark since the early 1900s, the world-class wines and cuisine, and summer concert series catapult Mountain Winery to the top of your bucket list! A sacred feeling exudes within the inner sanctum of the winery.   

Just a few miles away, sequestered on a hillside, the Mediterranean-style Montalvo Arts Center is another Saratoga jewel. The 175-acre estate offers extraordinary performing arts programs, year-round concert series, hiking trails, and gardens. Visitors are invited to discover miles of woodland hiking trails, and formal and informal gardens. Go in search of Sculpture on the Grounds – a multi-faceted installation of works of art.

Enjoy the music of waterfalls and Mother Nature at her finest at Hakone Estate & Gardens. Influenced by Buddhist and Zen cultures, this ever-changing 18-acre landscape presents something new each season. In spring and summer, multi-hued wisteria, azaleas, and rhododendron await. Delicate maples show their best fall colors. Winter brings a wall of camellias. The oldest Japanese and Asian estate garden in the Western Hemisphere, it is also a treasure of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Visitors wander the gardens and meditate on benches overlooking the koi pond or bamboo forest. Hakone also conducts several events including tea ceremonies and Maturi (Spring Festival).

Family-owned and operated since 1893, the 28-acre organic and sustainable Cooper-Garrod Estate Vineyards and Garrod Farms is an experience like no other. Just minutes from the village, enjoy scenic horseback-riding adventures through the vineyards and Fremont-Older Open Space Preserve followed by wine tasting and small bites on the shaded garden patio. 

Feasting
A stunning Victorian houses Bella Saratoga Restaurant. Superbly prepared Italian fare served in an intimate setting makes this a popular destination. Award-winning pastas, local vegetables, fresh fish, filet mignon, and pizzas – plates are bountiful so come hungry. Fronted by a lovely covered patio, ask about dining alfresco in spring and summer.

Haute cuisine! Haute décor! The Michelin-rated Plumed Horse is that. The ambiance exudes chic elegance and comfort. Draped in golden light and warm woods – dining rooms are elegantly decorated – a visual feast. Feel free to roam and ogle the towering wine cellar housing more than 1,800 wines from around the world. But brace yourself! You are about to be treated to gastronomic artistry. Every berry, vegetable, meat, fish, wild game, sauce, and dessert is painstakingly plated. Executive Chef Peter Armellino’s fresh seasonal menus will captivate your palate. Fourteen years on both the tasting and entrée menus, the signature Black Pepper and Parmesan Soufflé, served with uni and Dungeness crab, is the most requested dish. Open Wednesday-Sunday, 5:00 to 10:00 pm. Reservations are available only online and require a three-day advance cancellation. 

One Last Tip
Cyclists adore road trips up Highway 9 into the Santa Cruz Mountains. At Big Basin Café, a wide selection of fresh-roasted coffees and specialty drinks make this a perfect locale for a morning wander or post-bike ride hangout. 

 

Also published: Mountain Democrat and Outdoor Writers Association of California 

Retreat to Fern Canyon Trail in Mendocino County California

Silence . 

Eyes closed. The stillness beats in your ears. The hammering Mendocino ocean surf is replaced by giggling streams and fern grotto waterfalls. Blue skies and sunshine swallowed by towering redwoods, ferns and moss – kept lush by the dark, dank, and cold of this rainforest environment. Walking more than five miles in this tranquil woodland, you are alone on the planet. The silence broken mostly by small bird voices and a lone tree frog far and away. Other hikers occasionally cross your path with a nod and a smile.

The magic and spirit of Fern Canyon Trail at Russian Gulch State Park is ancient. Life here began long before humans breathed on this Earth. Despite human intervention, its mystical soul survives. Worth the ascent, the north trail (2.6 miles) is up and over and gets heart and lungs pumping for the Fern Canyon waterfall trail (another .7 miles). Loop back along the flat bike trail.

Slowly come to your senses as you leave this dreamscape behind.