Photo courtesy of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
It looks like the snow will be barreling down in Mammoth this winter, with the chances of El Nino continuing through the winter currently standing at 90%. There is even an 80% chance that its wintry conditions will last through early spring of 2016.
All we can say is, keep your fingers crossed folks! Pack your skis, grab your parkas, and reserve a spot on the slopes. This winter is sure to be a big one.
[ view entry ] ( 2817 views ) | permalink |
( 3 / 6705 )
It seems like kids are finding their inner Indiana Jones this year, with the Mammoth Children's Adventure Camp extending its dates for the summer to include Aug 9-14.
This new session was just added today and has tons of activities to offer- from fishing and hiking, to zip lines and biking! Kids will spend five nights in tent Cabins at Camp High Sierra.
No mountain experience is needed, and not only is the experience one of learning and exploration (trips to the Interpretive Center are a must), but it also allows kids to bond with events such as talent shows, glow in the dark frisbee games, and more.
The camp is separated into two age groups, 8-11 years and 12-15 years. The camp costs $1450, which includes lodging, food, gear, etc. Click here to learn more.
[ view entry ] ( 2693 views ) | permalink |
( 3 / 4317 )
Photo courtesy of Dreamstime
Californians are reeling with the hopes that this year's hot summer (mild in comparison to other so far) will be bid farewell by El Nino. But, it's hard to guarantee that this year's (hopefully) wet winter will be enough to replenish our lakes and rivers. That's why a group called the Walking Water has stepped in to raise awareness for water conservation efforts.
Taking place in three phases, the group will complete a 325-mile trek from Mono Lake to Los Angeles over the course of three years. The first phase begins on Sept. 1 and will continue for 20 days, covering the 180-mile walk from Mono Lake to Owen's Lake. This walk will accept a total of 50 participants, and those who are interested must apply for a permit.
Participants and organizers refer to the walk as a "pilgrimage", referring to the fact that the entire ordeal is much more an experience than simply a hike through California's dryland. The time span allows participants to engage with their communities in the meantime "build up momentum", according to the movement's website.
Click here to learn more about this movement.
[ view entry ] ( 2937 views ) | permalink |
( 3 / 2450 )
Photo by Boris Batchiyski
Every once in a while, sweet little bear cubs will make their way close to trails. When this happens, it's hard not to take a moment to admire them. Although it is important to be aware of dangerous animals, many time our fears run off of misconceptions.
For example, black bears (the ones most commonly seen in mountainous regions), are omnivorous but 80-90% of their diet is actually vegetarian. And, oftentimes, while warnings against feeding bears are made to protect humans, they're also made to protect bears! Bears can't tell apart the harmful products in your luggage or garbage, such as toiletries. When ingested, these products are detrimental to their health.
Additionally, with the urbanization of even mountain regions, bears are exposed to the fatal dangers of civilization. They fall victim to hunters, accidentally ingest litter, and tend to wander off into the roads where cars may hit them. So, we must be careful. While our wildlife is beautiful to watch, we don't always realize how much of it is endangered.
And, though we ourselves may be frightened, it's interesting to think of a little story my brother told me just the other day about his hike along a Yosemite trail. One of the only hikers on the trail that morning, he was walking along when he heard a rustling noise, a mild woofing and huffing. He turned around to see a large bear, picking around right near him. Initially shocked, he quickened his pace but continued looking back as he muddled forward. The bear continued picking around the brush, aware of his presence, even slightly posed in his direction, but not intending to take any action. He stopped to admire, and watched as the bear slipped away again, pawprints left in the dirt only inches from where his footsteps were imprinted.
[ view entry ] ( 2973 views ) | permalink |
( 3 / 3364 )
Photo by Boris Batchiyski
When at Glacier Point, you easily feel like you're on top of the world. At an elevation of 7,214 feet, it provides crystal clear views of the Yosemite Valley, Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, and other well-known points of interest within the national park.
A free shuttle can be caught to the scenic viewpoint from Badger Pass, or it can be accessed via the Four Mile Trail. The Four Mile Trail is a moderate to strenuous hike leading from the valley floor to Glacier Point. Beware, however, as this trail is extremely hazardous during the winter months. The Glacier Point road is another access point, but is only open to cars late May through October/November, depending on weather conditions.
Although the main attraction at this majestic peak among the clouds is daytime sightseeing, it's also an ideal place for stargazing and for hiking (there are a couple of trails that branch off from the Glacier Point Road.)
But, we don't need to convince you. The view is enough to entice any adventure seeker. Click here to learn more about Glacier Point.
[ view entry ] ( 2881 views ) | permalink |
( 3 / 3109 )
Calendar
