As we sit on the cusp of the over-promised El Nino winter rapidly approaching, and the clouds gather overhead to unleash a torrent of rain unseen for many moons, here are some ideas of where to go when the cabin fever gets too much to bear. Hiking in the rain can be a supremely pleasant…
I’ll be honest. This campground is pretty much the REASON I became convinced this blog was necessary. Because apparently very few people know about the existence of Fremont Peak State Park. And boy howdy, you should. Let me tell you why it’s a park absolutely worth checking out with the kiddos, especially for a weekend…
In a word, Pleasanton Ridge was pleasant. (Sorry, but it’s true.) I’m not sure it’s my most favorite hiking spot EVER, but it had some good qualities, as well as some considerations for hiking with the smaller set. First, Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park is the land of Big Oaks and Big Sycamores (and many buckeyes,…
I cannot say how many times I have driven by Olompali State Park and wondered what it was like and thought, “we should go hiking there,” and then neglected to go. Last Saturday finally changed all that, and I am thrilled to say that it is a worthy destination and I am looking forward to…
Mount Diablo is one of the most prominent and visually stunning features of the Bay Area landscape. At 3,849 ft it is the San Francisco Bay Area’s tallest mountain and an ecological treasure. There is an extensive trail network with hikes for every level from toddlers just beginning to get their hiking legs to seasoned…
Hiking with anyone ages 18 months (give or take a few months) to 8 or 9 years old can be a lesson both in cultivating patience, and in appreciating the journey. As adults we often slip into the mode of destination hiking, cruising the trails with an end result in mind, often passing right by a…
Chances are, if you are reading this, then you already recognize the value of interacting with the world outside. If you are like me, you may appreciate reminders and new insights about things you hold dear. Spending time in the natural world is one of the things that many people recognize as anything from “relaxing”…
The Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST) just came out with a lovely free guide to 15 hikes at various POST lands. The guide has short strolls, up to 2-3 easy miles, hikes that range from 3-5 miles, and then longer “treks” from 7-13 miles. The relatively well-known Phleger Estate is featured, along with lesser-known areas…
What’s better than camping with your own children? Camping with lots of friends and THEIR children! This Monday, November 1st, the East Bay Regional Park system started taking group campsite reservations for the upcoming year, and we heartily recommend getting yourself and your group a campsite. Group campsites are a wonderful way to introduce your…
Bay Area Families Outside 