I had high hopes for Slit Canyon. And to be fair, the first part of the hike was gorgeous with scenery not typically experienced on the more famous trails in Death Valley National Park. However, the canyon itself wasn’t as…
Hiking and Swimming at McCloud Falls
I heard about the wonders of McCloud Falls from a social media friend who used to live in the area. His pictures were lovely, and it was said to be a great local swimming hole. Now, I’m well aware that…
Photos from Death Valley’s Lake Manly
About two months ago, I was editing my final photos from 2023, which included our visit to Lake Manly at Badwater Basin in Death Valley National Park, California. I was sad about editing the photos because I figured I’d never…
The Very Best of Anne’s Travels in 2025!
It’s the end of 2025! How did we get here so fast? But what a good year it has been, too! Before we get down to business, I’m wishing a great 2026 for every one of you. I mentioned that…
Panamint Dunes: Remote Sand Dunes in Death Valley
There are a few collections of sand dunes in Death Valley. The most famous are the Mesquite Dunes, located along the main highway near Stovepipe Wells. I’ve also been to the Ibex Dunes in the far south of the park.…
Hiking Hetch Hetchy to Wapama Falls
Did you know that you don’t need a timed entry ticket to visit Hetch Hetchy in Yosemite National Park? The access road is located just outside of the entry gates to the park, proper, so no timed entry ticket is…
The Waterfall in Lower Monarch Canyon
I’ve had my eye on Lower Monarch Canyon ever since I first read about it back c.2021. A perennial waterfall in the desert reached via a desert walk and hiking up a canyon? Yes, please! The Monarch Canyon Waterfall in…
30 Years of Family Adventure Vacations!
This week we’re celebrating a huge milestone: 30 years of traveling together as a family! Back in 1995, we set off to do what they said couldn’t be done (you don’t just cross the continent with kids ages 7, 5,…
Blue Lake above Lake Sebrina
Blue Lake above Lake Sabrina in the John Muir Wilderness of California is probably best known as a backpacking destination. However, it makes a great dayhike and was one of the prettiest mid-length hike of the High Sierra trails I…
Driving the Echo Canyon Road
Echo Canyon Road may be one of the most popular 4×4 roads in Death Valley (outside of the Racetrack Road). It certainly is convenient and beautiful and offers great views, an arch, and a little bit of adventure. In recent…