hiking


Top of Mt Tam

Have you ever been to the top of Mt Tam? If you are local to the San Francisco Bay Area, and you can handle few twisty roads, what are you waiting for? When you reach the top of Mt Tam, you can see spectacular views of Marin and the bay. If you’re lucky, you will see the fog rolling in like a luxurious blanket enveloping you in comfort and relief from the summer heat.

This is your cue to make sure you have a full tank of gas, and to head up the mountain for some hiking, serenity, local history, and breathtaking beauty. To achieve this, I recommend going in the morning on a weekday; avoid weekends at all costs.

Thanks for stopping by! I hope you enjoy this Bay Area staycation idea!

XOXO

Cathy


Gifts ideas for the hiker on your list

Hiking gift ideas from top left: hiking backpack / beanie / mosquito repellant bracelets / hiking socks / first aid kit / water bottle /

What a beautiful day for a hike! If someone on your list loves to enjoy the great outdoors, and hiking is her jam, here are a few gift ideas for the hiker on your list!

There are a few things you should always have with you while hiking: a first aid kit and a water. A new kit or a new bottle would make a practical, useful gift for the hiker on your list. Want to go a step further? These socks are made for hiking! She will love the support and comfort of special socks made for her hiking adventures.

Backpacks wear out, why not gift her a fabulous new hiking backpack! I have my eye on this one. Hint hint, nudge nudge. Is my husband reading this?

I am a huge fan of these mosquito repellant bracelets. They are easy to wear and use, plus, they work! Love that!

So, without further ado, here are a few fabulous gifts for the hiker on your list!

Thanks for stopping by, stay tuned for more holiday gift ideas!

XOXO

Cathy


Muir Woods family hike

wearing: blue tee / backpack (old, also love this one) / black belt / jeans / nail polish / statement earrings / hiking boots (old, also love this pair) /

If you are local to the San Francisco Bay Area, there is a good chance you have visited Muir Woods at some point in your life. If not, what are you waiting for? People from around the world make it a point to visit Muir Woods when they travel to San Francisco, so definitely make sure it gets on your to do list!

Muir Woods is filled with old growth redwood trees, many of which have been around for hundreds and hundreds of years. There have also been historical events which occurred at Muir Woods such as when the UN met in San Francisco to get organized, they visited Muir Woods and even took a picture!

Since Muir Woods is such a popular destination, a reservation system has been put in place for visitors. I have to admit, I love the reservation system. I remember when you just showed up on a whim. The parking lot would be gridlock and there would be way too many people on the trails. With the reservation system, traffic is controlled, and the trails are not crowded. It really is better for the environment as well as the overall experience. Love it!

Speaking of the trails, there is a trail for every hiking level at Muir Woods. You can walk along the flat trail and learn about the history of the park, or you can wander onto one of the many trails which take your through the park. We found a trail which was moderately challenging and took two hours to complete.

You can learn more about Muir Woods and make reservations at GoMuirWoods.com. Be sure to print your tickets at home, there isn’t any cell service at Muir Woods.

I recommend getting an early morning reservation to beat the summer heat. This will clear up your afternoon so you can explore Marin County, or head back into the city to play tourist.

Enjoy your visit and also bring a water bottle, wear hiking boots, and watch for ticks.

Thanks for stopping by!

XOXO
Cathy