Despite its proximity to the city, parking at Lands End shouldn’t be an issue. We arrived here mid-day on a Saturday during the holiday season and had no trouble finding a parking spot in the lot near the Visitor Center. The Visitor Center is a good place to stop if you’d like to learn more of the rich history of the area, and has public restrooms if needed.

After parking, your first point of interest will be the Lands End Outlook, located directly in front of the parking area, next to the Visitor Center. The outlook showcases dramatic views of the ocean and the ruins of Sutro Baths, once the largest indoor swimming complex until it burned down in 1966. This is just the first of many spectacular views to come.

The main hiking trail found at Lands End is the Coastal Trail, found at the edge of the parking lot above the Cliff House. The trail itself is a 3 miles, and eventually connects with the short Lands End Trail. This out-and-back path takes hikers through woodlands and along the shoreline until the trail comes to an end in a residential neighborhood. While the trail itself provides more than enough visual amusement, some of the greatest sights to be seen are slightly off the beaten path.

Lands End Point and Labyrinth

The first must-see detour is Lands End Point. You’ll find this spur trail about a half-mile from the start of the Coastal Trail. The spur trail will be marked with a sign on your left, where you’ll follow a steep dirt stairway which will take you directly to Lands End Point. Here, you’ll find clear, unobstructed views of the Golden Gate Bridge in the distance and hear the sound of waves crashing beneath you. Just below you, you’ll also find the Labyrinth, a strategic placement of rocks that forms an intricate design.

Mile Rock Beach

After viewing the Labyrinth, if you follow another spur trail downhill, you’ll find Mile Rock Beach. The rocky beach is filled with rock cairns, and more importantly, the remains of concrete ruins, seemingly out of place. The ruins are covered in graffiti, making them very noticeable to anyone on Mile Rock Beach.

Lands End Shipwrecks

Perhaps one of the main points of interest at Lands End is the sunken ships who crashed into the rocky shores below you. At very low tide, three ships are often visible, including the cargo ship SS Ohioan (located next to the Sutro Baths), the oil tanker SS Lyman Stewart (near Lands End Point), and another oil tanker, the SS Frank H. Buck (near Mile Rock Beach).

World War II Memorial

The last main point of interest you’ll find on your hike along the Coastal Trail is a World War II memorial, found just left of the Fort Miley parking lot. This memorial is dedicated to the men who lost their lives on the battleship USS San Francisco, during the Battle of Guadalcanal.

Lands End Tips

• Public restrooms are available near the Visitor Center at the western end of the trail. There are no other restrooms located on the trail.
• There are several ways to access Lands End. I’d highly recommend the lot by the Lands End Visitor Center for ease of parking.
• Don’t forget to check out the Mile Rock Beach after visiting the Lands End Labyrinth.
• Beat the crowds. Arrive early before throngs of other Bay Area residents arrive, especially on weekends. This is a popular hiking destination.

Driving Directions

From Walnut Creek, take I-680 N toward Sacramento. Merge onto CA-24 W. Continue onto CA-24 W for 8.1 miles. Keep left at the fork to stay on CA-24 W. In 4.3 miles, use the right 2 lanes to take exit 2B for interstate 580 W. Use the left lane to merge onto I-580 W. Use the left 3 lanes to take exit 19A to merge onto I-80 W toward San Francisco.

In 8.3 miles, use the right 2 lanes to take exit 1B to merge onto US-101 N toward Golden Gate Bridge. Continue onto Octavia Blvd. Use any lane to turn left onto Fell St. In 1.6 miles, take a slight right to stay on Fell St. Turn right onto Stanyan St. In 0.2 miles, turn left onto Fulton St. In 3.1 miles, turn right onto Great Hwy. Continue onto Point Lobos Ave.

Lands End will be on your left, marked by a visitors center.

Difficulty: Easy

Elevation Gain: 300 feet

Dog-Friendly: Yes

Total Distance: 3 miles

Trailhead Address: 680 Point Lobos Ave, San Francisco, CA 94121

The post Lands End Trail | San Francisco, CA appeared first on Sun Kissed Hiker.

Summer may seem more appealing to some for paying a national park a visit, but you knew winter will be the best time to beat the crowds. You’ll also have the opportunity to view the park through a different lens, most likely dusted or in some cases, covered in snow. Not only will there be less foot traffic and beautiful views, you also were able to book your lodging for a fraction of hefty summer costs thanks to low-season rates.

There are a plethora of positives to visiting national parks in winter, but as any seasoned traveler knows, traveling any time of the year comes with a few risks. To avoid a travel blunder and to ensure your family has the best experience possible, we’ve gathered some of our top tips for visiting our nation’s national parks in winter.

Check for Road Closures

Many National Parks experience snowfall and icy roads during winter months. For example, in winter months, the North Rim of the Grand Canyon is closed to vehicle traffic. I once made the mistake of not checking this beforehand and drove all the way to the North Rim only to find I couldn’t enter. In turn, we ended up driving hours to reach the South Rim, which cut off precious time from our trip. Prior to leaving for your trip, check for road closures so you don’t spend unnecessary time having to find a different route unexpectedly.

Expect Delays

The one major unfortunate part of winter travel is delays. Planes are often delayed and sometimes even cancelled due to poor weather conditions. If you will be traveling by plane, take into consideration you may lose hours if not a whole day of vacation time due to inclement weather conditions. Be patient, flexible, and ready for unexpected changes in your travel plans due to weather delays. It may be worthwhile to even plan an extra day at the start of your trip to account for this.

Maintain Your Car

It’s no secret driving in adverse weather conditions leads to more accidents. If you’ll be driving your own car or a rental car, it’s important to do your best to avoid getting in an accident or stranded. To aid with this, keep your gas tank above ½ full the entirety of your drive and check your car before driving. Additionally, you’ll want to make sure your tires have enough air, no repair lights are on, and that the oil has been recently changed.

Dress Accordingly

Here in San Diego, a tank top and yoga pants are acceptable year-round due to our weather conditions. Visiting a national park in winter will require more planning and layers than you may be accustomed to. As a rule of thumb, it’s always better to wear layers of clothing in cold weather that you can easily shed than too little clothing. You may also want to consider rain/snow protecting measures such as gaiters and waterproof boots.

Take Advantage of Winter Sports

If you live in a sunny climate, there are few opportunities to fully enjoy the thrill of cold-weather sports. While you’re visiting a national park during winter, why not participate in some of these sports? The best part is most of them are safer than other sports, such as ones that require contact, so you won’t have to stress over the potential for injuries. Add some challenge to your hike with snowshoes, cover greater distance with cross-country skis, or push yourself to try skiing in Yosemite.

Stay Hydrated

In colder weather, it’s easier to forget to drink water. The air is colder, letting our bodies believe we are properly hydrated even at times we sometimes aren’t. There is the additional challenge to remember to drink plenty of water, even if you aren’t out of breath or feeling the sun blazing down on your face. If helpful, set a timer on your watch to remind you to stop every half an hour to stay hydrated.

Plan Your Day Accordingly

A trip to a national park in winter isn’t one where you will want to sleep in and enjoy at your leisure. With the minimal amount of daylight hours, you’ll want to get an early start to make the most of each day. Check for the sunrise and sunset times each day to plan your day accordingly to ensure you get in as much as possible without getting caught in the dark.

Take a Guided Walk

Snowfall can completely cover a trail, which could prove to be difficult when trying to stay on course. Trails may not be as clear cut as they are in summer, with lack of human presence and clear direction. To avoid the risk of getting lost, consider taking a ranger-guided walk, often offered by the National Park Service free of charge. Check the online calendar for program offerings before your trip to know what time you need to arrive by and allow for travel time.

Don’t Overdo It

In warmer months, it’s easy to zip around to different part of a national park. In winter, this proves to be a challenge with rock closures and slower driving speeds for safety. To avoid stress, try not to over plan your days. Plan on hiking one trail a day to set reasonable expectations and evade disappointment. If you’re traveling with children, plan to set out on shorter hikes to account for the difficulty of hiking in snow.

Visit the Visitors Center

You may think you know the best trails and places to go, but it’s still worthwhile to check in at the visitor center at the start of your trip. When you check in, park rangers can inform you on road and trail closures, as well as areas that may not be safe to visit in winter. They also have the inside scoop on best places to catch a sunrise, hidden trails, and other points of interest you won’t find on a map.

Have any other tips you’d recommend for visiting national parks in winter? I’d love to hear all about them in the comments below!

Photo Credit: Brian Giesen, Hydro Flask, Grand Canyon National Park, Ralph Arvesen

The post 10 Tips For Visiting National Parks in Winter Months appeared first on Sun Kissed Hiker.

Santa Ysabel Open Space Preserve features 3,800 acres of oak woodlands, wildflowers in spring, and plenty of foliage in the fall. There are two different staging areas at Santa Ysabel, both the East and West side. Hikers can traverse more than 13 miles of hiking trails across the whole preserve and complete two loop trails and a section of the Coast to Crest Trail. For this trip however, we tackled the east side of the preserve, completing the West Vista Loop Trail, a 4.2-mile loop trail.

After parking at the Santa Ysabel East Preserve Hwy 79 staging area, head east past a wooden information kiosk and through a large cattle gate. The first section of the trail is barren, passing through an open field where you’ll likely see cows grazing freely. You’ll soon begin to approach oak woodlands, which you’ll see throughout the rest of the hike and this is where the true climb begins.

Follow the trail as it begins to quickly ascend, gaining 700 feet within the first 1.1 miles. The climb is a bit rigorous, even for an experienced hiker, but the views make it worthwhile. Take a moment to look back every once in awhile to admire the sweeping views of Santa Ysabel in the near distance. At the top of the climb, you’ll find a wooden bench where you can take a quick breather before completing the West Vista Loop portion of the hike.

We chose to complete the loop clockwise, however either direction will give your legs some reprieve as the majority of your elevation gain has been completed. The trail is straightforward for the next 0.8 miles until you reach a “T” junction at a small picnic area. The trail to the right will take you along the Coast to Crest Trail which leads to the Kanaka Loop Trail on the west side of the preserve. Some hikers choose to leave a car on the east side of the car and hike all the way to the west side of the preserve where they’ll have left another car. Today, however, we headed left at the junction to continue the West Vista Loop Trail.

The next 1.4 miles will take you beneath a canopy of oaks, seldom seeing other hikers and allowing you to simply enjoy the sounds of the wind brushing through the leaves of the oak trees above. Once you close the loop, retrace your steps down the steep hill to the staging area.

West Vista Loop Trail Tips

• Bring a picnic lunch. There are multiple places on the trail with picnic tables to rest, grab a bite to eat, and admire the views.
• Wear hiking boots. The hike up to the top of the West Vista Loop Trail is technical and hikers will benefit from wearing sturdy hiking boots.
• Bring plenty of water. There are no water stations along this trail.
• Complete this hike in the fall or spring. Fall brings beautiful foliage and spring will present wildflowers.

Driving Directions

From downtown San Diego, take CA-163 N for 11.2 miles. Merge onto I-15 N. In 4.9 miles, use the right lane to take exit 17 for Mercy Rd toward Scripps Poway Use the right 2 lanes to turn right onto Scripps Poway Pkwy. In 8.6 miles, Use the left 2 lanes to turn onto CA-67 N. Continue on CA-67N for 11 miles. Continue onto CA-78 E/Julian Road for 14.4 miles. Turn left onto CA-79 N. The destination will be on your right in 1.2 miles.

Difficulty: Easy

Total Distance: 4.4 miles

Dog-friendly: Yes

Trailhead Address: Santa Ysabel East Preserve, Hwy 79 Staging, CA-79, Santa Ysabel, CA 92070

Trail Map: Available here

The post West Vista Loop Trail, Santa Ysabel Open Space Preserve | Santa Ysabel, CA appeared first on Sun Kissed Hiker.

Allaire Village

Allaire Village, located within Allaire State Park, once was a booming iron town known as the Howell Iron Works. Today, the town has been restored and is a history museum run by a nonprofit organization. One can see evidence of what once was in this mid-1800’s town by checking out row houses, a blacksmith shop, and even founder James P. Allaire’s home.

In 1822 James Allaire purchased property in Aillaire Village to process the ores needed for manufacturing. The hours were long and tiring, prompting many families to relocate to the site of the company. To accommodate these families a town soon sprung up to include a bakery, mill, an inn, and general store. When stronger iron was found in Pennsylvania, Allaire town was doomed. By 1850 it was a ghost town.

Batsto Village

Batsto Village has a long rich history, and is now designated as a historic site in Wharton State Forest. It first began with Batsto Iron Works in 1766. Batsto was equipped with the natural resources for making iron and bog ore was mined from the banks. There was also plenty of wood in the area that could be turned into charcoal to smelt the ore. In time, a town sprung up around Batso Iron Works, a town that would last for some time.

The iron industry began to lose its prosperity in the mid-19th century, but Batsto continued to make means to an end with glass-making. When the glass business declined, Joseph Wharton purchased the land, fixing some of the buildings in the area. When Wharton died in 1909, his properties were managed by a trust company in Philadelphia, up until the state of New Jersey purchased the town. Batsto continued to thrive for nearly two centuries to come, up until the last of the Village houses was vacated in 1989.

Double Trouble

While it isn’t exactly known where the name Double Trouble originates from, one thing is for certain the only thing troublesome about the town today is the state of its remaining structures. Double Trouble once was a small lumbering and cranberry-processing village. The Double Trouble Co. became one of the largest cranberry processors in all of New Jersey at the turn of the 20th century. At its peak, the town boasted a general store, school, homes, packing houses, and a sawmill.

Today, many of the town’s original structures still stand erect, though they are weathering with time.

Not far from the abandoned ghost town of Double Trouble in the woods stands a spot that is known for trouble. Deep in the middle of the woods one will find a circular region of pushed down trees, some refer to as the “Devils Stomping Grounds”. How this strange section of forest came to be, no one seems to be quite certain.

Feltville

Nearly two centuries ago, a business man named David Felt purchased land and named it Feltville. He built a mill, two dams for the mill, and a small town for mill workers to live in. Feltville stood strong for 15 years, until Felt decided to sell the land. None of the several successive business ventures could ever restore the town to be quite how it was, and eventually it was abandoned. Feltville became known as the “Desserted Village”.

The Union County Park bought the land years later and made it part of the Watchung Reservation, renting the homes to families in need. To this day, only a few families remain residents of the Deserted Village, and the rest of former Feltville is open to visitors looking to get a glimpse into history. For those looking for a scare, it is said that three ghosts live in the house located on the outer fringe of the enclave.

Harrisville

Harrisville once was one of the most successful Pine Barrens towns, and unlike other ghost towns, its residents didn’t choose to leave. Instead they were forced out, after a massive fire swept through the town, destroying everything in sight.

Harrisville has a long history. It was known as McCartyville and before that had other names after the businessmen who staked the area. Harrisville first began when Richard Harris and his brother Benjamin gained ownership over the land. It grew to include a public school, canal, mill, and homes. In 1914, Harrisville came to a dramatic end when a forest fire devastated the town.

Today, only the South Wall and a small spire from the North wall remains. The ruins of Harrisville are expected to disappear within the next 50 years so get here quick before nothing remains to be seen.

Hibernia

In 1722, a series of independent mines mining from the same iron ore were all known as the Hibernia mines. Though mining operators worked independently, the abundance of iron caused little disagreement between the multiple mines in the area. Due to the rich iron source found in Hibernia, many mining families lived in the area. By 1864, some of the mine owners joined forces to incorporate the Hibernia Mine Railroad to transport ore from the source to the Morris Canal. Part of this former trestle bridge can be found in a county park in Somerset County.

By the time the early 1900s came around, the iron had diminished. By 1916, the last ore was mined from Hibernia. Today Hibernia is considered to be an unincorporated community and has a population of approximately 130 people as of 2010. The iron-depleted mines can still be found there today.

Raritan Landing

What was once one of the busiest ports in New Jersey, slowly became nothing more than a distant memory. Raritan Landing, founded in 1675, was a bustling port town with a general store, warehouse docks, homes, and more. Vessels would ship manufactured goods from around the world to Raritan Landing and the goods would be transported to the warehouses lining the port. By the mid-1800s, trade declined, moving downstream to New Brunswick instead. This brought a slow end to Raritan Landing.

Today, little remains of the original Raritan Landing aside from the Cornelius Low House and the Metlar-Bodine House. Both can be found on River Road overlooking Johnson Park and the town that was once. An exhibit in Piscataway, “Raritan Landing—Uncovering a Forgotten Past”, features vignettes of what the general store and warehouse docks looked like and Kiosk that contains a 3-D animation of Raritan Landing.

Waterloo Village

Waterloo Village’s inhabitants date centuries back, to the time of the Munsee Indians who inhabited the area for its abundance of natural resources and waterways. When rich veins of iron were discovered nearby, the Andover Forge was established in what became known as Waterloo Village. Bar iron would be made here and shipped to England before the American Revolution.

Later, Waterloo became a canal town, which featured a general store, inn, church, and watermill. Today it is an open-air museum in Allamuchy Mountain State Park. The Lenape Village at historic Waterloo Village today stands to help visitors get a glimpse into the past. One must reach the island in Waterloo Lake by boat, where you can experience what it might’ve been like to live off the land here as the Indians did nearly 400 years ago.

Weymouth

Weymouth Furnace was once a successful iron works community, with a focus of activity on the furnace stack. When iron came into stiff competition with the anthracite-fired furnaces of Pennsylvania, Weymouth, like other soon-to-be ghost towns, simply couldn’t compete. By the mid-1840’s the fires died out, the water wheel stilled, and the plant ceased operation. It then became a paper mill community. When the paper mills were closed, most of the people living in Weymouth moved. By 1887, Weymouth was abandoned and left for ruins.

Today, not much is left of Weymouth Furnace the Great Harbor River runs by the remains of the town’s grand stone arches, a chimney stack and foundations from the old mill. A map of Weymouth can be found at the township historical society in Mays Landing.

Whitesbog

Whitesbog Village was once the largest cranberry farm in New Jersey, founded in the 1870s by Joseph. J White. White was a successful cranberry farmer, entrepreneur, and engineer. His daughter Elizabeth, with the cooperation of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, developed the first cultivated blueberry. Whitesbog was home to field workers and their families who rented homes in the Village. As harvesting equipment became more advanced, the need for workers decreased and the Village began to empty. The village has since been brought back to life with more than 20 buildings restored by the Whitesbog Preservation Trust.

Today Whitesbog is surrounded by 3,000 acres of cranberry bogs, blueberry fields, and plenty of trails for hiking in the nearby Pine Barren’s forest. Stop at the Visitor Center for a map of Whitesbog, or take a scheduled tour of the Village Museums and Elizabeth White’s garden. You can also step into the General Store, which sells an eclectic collection of food and handcrafted items related to the town’s main claim to fame: its cranberries and blueberries.

Photo Credit: Bob is Traveling, Wikipedia, Hypnotica Studios Infinite, Wikipedia, johnrudolphmueller, Vimeo, Wikipedia, Wikipedia, Wikipedia, Wikipedia

The post 10 New Jersey Ghost Towns to Check Off Your Bucket List appeared first on Sun Kissed Hiker.

To reach the trailhead, first park along Corte Romero street. The trailhead will be at the very beginning of the street, where you’ll see a wooden trail marker with a pouch for informational brochures. Continue to follow the trail as it begins its initial ascent uphill. You’ll almost immediately cross a short wooden footbridge, etched with the rules of the trail. The bridge warns hikers have the right of way. This is largely because mountain bikers frequent this trail, and it’s likely you’ll encounter quite a few on your way up.

You’ll reach your second trail marker shortly after you begin your hike at a “T” junction. Ignore the marker for Sitio Salvia and instead continue straight following the sign for the Switchbacks Trail to stay on course. At around 0.5 miles you’ll reach a “Y” junction. Stay to your left to continue the Switchbacks Trail.

The trail becomes very straightforward from here, slowly gaining elevation through a series of switchbacks. Because of these switchbacks, we could hardly notice the elevation gain and the trail never felt too difficult, even as we began to climb higher and higher. Most of the climb we were also rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding city of Carlsbad and the glistening Batiquitos Lagoon in the distance.

Just before reaching the 1-mile marker, you’ll pass through an outcropping of boulders, a great spot to take in the views or take a break if needed. This is one of the only parts of the trail where you’ll find shade, so it may be an opportune time to cool off if hiking in warmer months.

At a little over a mile you’ll encounter a sign for the Mule Deer Trail. One could take this trail and still reach the top of Denk Mountain. I’d suggest taking this trail either on the way up or on your way down to switch up the scenery. We decided to continue the Switchbacks Trail for now, knowing we would take the Mule Deer Trail on our way back down.

At 2-miles, you’ll reach a 4-way junction. You’ll also likely be able to see a wood awning in the distance. Follow the trail straight toward the awnings to complete your hike to the summit of Denk Tank Mountain.

At the top you’ll find two benches and a picnic table where you can sit and relax in the shade. Additionally, there is a work station for mountain bikers where they can fix their bike or add more air to their tires if needed. Although I’m nowhere near a mountain biker, I thought this was a unique feature and something I’d never seen before on a trail.

After admiring the views, you have the option to retrace your steps back to the trailhead. Alternately, you can take the Mule Deer Trail to get a divergent vantage point. It is important to note the Mule Deer Trail does not gradually ascend along switchbacks, but instead cuts downhill quickly, shaving off some of the distance and getting you back quicker. Eventually the Mule Deer Trail meets back up with the Switchbacks Trail to take you back to your car on Corte Romero Street.

Denk Tank Mountain Tips

• Wear sun protection. Almost the entirety of this trail is exposed and without shade.
• Watch out for mountain bikers. You will more than likely run into a few. Pay extra caution when rounding switchbacks.
• Bring plenty of water. There are no spots to refill your water on this trail.
• Use the restroom prior to hiking. There are no restrooms at the trailhead.
• Bring a picnic lunch. There are a few benches and a picnic table at the summit for you to eat lunch while enjoying the breathtaking vistas.

Driving Directions

From downtown San Diego, take CA-163 N. In 6.2 miles, use the right 2 lanes to take exit 7A to merge onto I-805 N toward Los Angeles. In 8.9 miles, merge onto I-5 N. In 11.3 miles, take the Leucadia Blvd exit.

Turn right onto Leucadia Blvd. In 1.8 miles, continue onto Oliverhain Rd. In 1 mile continue onto Rancho Santa Fe Rd. In 1.9 miles, turn right onto Camino Junipero. In 0.2 miles, turn left onto Corte Romero. The trailhead will be to your right as soon as you turn onto Corte Romero. Park along the street.

Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Total Distance: 3.5 miles

Trailhead Address: 3537 Corte Romero, Carlsbad, CA 92009

Dog Friendly: Yes

The post Denk Tank Mountain, Rancho La Costa Preserve | Carlsbad, CA appeared first on Sun Kissed Hiker.

New Mexico is home to over 400 ghost towns, but we’ve rounded up the top 10 we’d recommend venturing to.

Cabezon | Sandoval County

Unlike most New Mexico ghost towns on our lists, Cabezon was started in the 1870’s for farming and raising livestock. It also served as a stage stop between Santa Fe and Fort Wingate. Cabezon stayed strong for over 70 years, until the Rio Puerco dried up. The post office for the town finally closed in 1949, marking the end of a steady era.

Today, much of Cabezon remains. However, it is difficult get a close glimpse because it is on private property. Visitors must admire the ghost town from a distance behind a fence. Do not enter Cabezon or ignore the “No Trespassing signs”.

Chloride | Sierra County

Chloride technically is not a ghost town. There are 11 residents of the town, but before that it was a ghost town. The town came to be in 1880, after Briton Harry Pye found silver ore, a secret that eventually got exposed. Soon after, the town boomed to multiple saloons, a restaurant, a pharmacy, two hotels, a school, and much more.

When the Silver Panic hit in 1893 followed by a large cut in the price of silver, Chloride’s boom eventually came to an end. Today, one can still see many of the town’s original structures. Harry Pye’s cabin is also available as a vacation rental should you wish to get the full Chloride experience. Of the many mines established near Chloride, St. Cloud is still in operation, however silver is no longer mined.

Elizabethtown | Colfax County

After the Civil War came to an end, Indians began to arrive at Fort Union in hopes of trading rocks for supplies. Captain William H. Moore of Fort Union had once had a close encounter with one of the Indians. After an Indian was wounded, he took care of him until he was on the mend. The Indian gave him rocks in exchange for his hospitality, which Captain Moore realized were rich in copper. The Indian lead Captain Moore and other soldiers to the copper, which would be the first of many claims in the area.

Word of the areas riches spread and soon, others came to find their fortune. The town was named after the captain’s daughter, Elizabeth Catherine Moore, and quickly boomed to include saloons, stores, and gambling houses. By 1870, Elizabethtown had rapidly grown to 7,000 residents. Now, only a few buildings remain, overlooking Moreno Valley.

Glenrio | Deaf Smith County

Glenrio almost didn’t make our list because it straddles both Texas and New Mexico, however it is one worth mentioning. Its Main Street is a Historic District and the town can be found along the infamous Route 66. The native Comanche and Kiowa Indians were the first to inhabit the area until the white settlers moved and caused a war from 1874-1876.

A station was built in 1906 as a place for local ranchers to ship their produce. The station itself was in Texas, however the town reached across the state line. By 1920, the town had grown to include a hotel, cafes, stores, and service stations. When U.S. Highway 66 was created in 1926 it even passed through Glenrio. When I-40 was completed in 1973, Route 66 was moved out of the town and thus began its decline. By 2000, only five people lived in Glenrio.

Gran Quivira

Gran Quivira’s origins extend back over 1000 years ago. The Pueblo people lived here in pit houses with wood roofs, that still can be seen today. Close to 2,000 people lived in Gran Quivira, and it served as a pinnacle trade center, and continued to serve as one even after the Spanish arrived. The village left for ruins is just one of three in the Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument. The other two villages, Abo and Quarai, are located approximately 30 miles north of Gran Quivira.

By Nov. 1, 1909, Gran Quivira was designated as a national monument, a few years after the National Antiquities Act was passed. Today, visitors are able to see the ruins of the village, an abandoned school house, as well as the remnants of mission churches built by the Spanish in the 16th century.

Old Hachita

In the early 1870’s, prospectors made a grand discovery in the hills of the Little Hatchet Mountains. They found turquoise, lead, copper, and silver. The mining district became known as Eureka after this discovery as a place for miners to settle. In late 1880, the Southern Pacific Railroad extended to come within 45 minutes of Eureka for easier access to civilization. By 1882, the town was officially registered as Hachita and grew to a population of 300 residents after just a few years.

Hachita’s boom lasted just a few years as the ore played out. By 1890, the town was only home to 25 people. The post office stuck around for a few years longer, eventually shutting down in 1898l In 1902 when tracks were laid nine miles east of Hachita nine miles east of Hachita, the town became divided between “Old Hachita” and the new Hachita. Today Hachita is still home to around 30 or so people. One can still find crumbling adobe buildings in Old Hachita.

Pinos Altos

Pinos Altos (Spanish for ‘tall pines’) was once a bustling mining town back in its glory days. The town came to be in 1860 when three men discovered gold in Bear Creek. Word ran rampant and soon men flocked to the town in hopes of striking it rich. Additionally, the area was known for its ranching, and some of the largest ranches in the United States were found not far from town.

Today, Pinos Altos still leaves behind some of its most infamous structures. The town still has a main street; some of the structures have been restored with original memorabilia and artifacts over the years. It is also home to about 300 residents. Check out the town, learn about its rich history, or try your hand at gold panning when you check this New Mexico ghost town off your bucket list.

Santa Rita

Santa Rita was once a bustling mining town that started as just a fort with a church. Soon after more buildings were erect, and the Sante Fe Railroad eventually connected the mine to New Mexico. From here, the town began to soar and at one point, 6,000 people called Santa Rita Home.

Native Americans were very familiar with the copper in the area for some time before the Spanish caught on. Once they made the discovery, the Spanish enslaved the Native Americans and had them mine for the copper. By 1901, the town was forced to move several times when the Santa Rita mine was converted to an open pit. By the 1950’s the pit grew so large, that the town of Santa Rita got in the way. By 1967, the town was abandoned for good. Today only the large pit remains to be seen in this ghost town.

Shakespeare

Shakespeare went through a few names prior to 1879, at the start of the town’s second mining boom. The area was attractive for miners because of a small spring located in the arroyo just west of town. The town was a rebirth from a crooked past, and in 1879 Colonel William G. Boyle sought to change that by renaming the town Shakespeare. He started the Shakespeare Gold and Silver Mining and Milling Company and the town experienced its second boom.

When the new railroad town of Lordsburg sprung to life, the end of Shakespeare was near. Businesses began to move down to the clown to be closer to the rail station. Shakespeare eventually was declared a National Historic Site in 1970. Today, the town is privately owned and can be toured one weekend a month.

Steins

With the discovery of gold, silver, lead, and copper in what is known as Hidalgo County came numerous mining camps along the base of the Peloncillo Range. Nearby Steins was known as a railroad town, where the Southern Pacific Railroad ran through. By 1880, when the railway was complete through the area, the station became known to be located in the town of Steins. By 1905, Steins had a Post Office, schoolhouse, restaurant, and saloon. It is speculated that more than 1,000 people lived in Steins at its peak.

Steins met its demise at the end of World War II, when the Southern Pacific Railroad discontinued its stop to the town. The railway offered residents free transport to anywhere they desired, and most took advantage of the opportunity and escaped town. Not much remains of Steins, aside from a few adobe ruins and buildings restored from a fire in 1964. Steins may be gone but the railway still continues to run past the town even to this day.

Photo Credit: ABQ Museum Photoarchive, Larry Lamsa, Peer Lawther, John Hurd, Mark Goebel, George Self, myboogers, Wikipedia

The post 10 New Mexico Ghost Towns To Check Off Your Bucket List appeared first on Sun Kissed Hiker.

There are two ways to reach the Canyon Oak Trail. The first and easiest way is to park in the Canyon Oak day use parking area. From here, you’ll simply walk toward the Group Camp Area 1, across from campsite 62.

The second way to reach this trail is to proceed uphill along the paved road until you reach campsite 87. Here, you’ll find a wooden kiosk that serves as the trailhead for the 3 loop trails in this area: Canyon Oak, Desert View, and a self-guided nature trail. The Desert View Trail and Nature Trail will branch off to the right whereas the Canyon Oak Trail will be to your left. Follow signs for the Canyon Oak Trail to begin your hike.

If you take the first way, the trail will begin to slowly wind uphill through forests of oak, pine, and cedar that survived the massive 2003 Cedar Fire that also touched William Heise County Park. Along the well-defined trail you’ll pass several benches, including one that is worthy taking a short break to admire the view before you.

Although you’ll only gain approximately 300 feet of elevation on your hike, much of this will come during the first half of the hike as you make your way up a switchback. As you continue your climb, don’t forget to take in the surrounding views. You’ll see the Cuyamaca Mountain Range looming in the somewhat near distance, another wonderful place to hike on another day.

Once you’ve cleared the switchback, the rest of the trail is straightforward until you reach the intersection for the Desert View Trail. This is where you can extend your hike another 2.25 miles. The Desert View Trail will take you even higher and the view are arguably even more breathtaking, including Glen’s View. At 4,927 feet, Glen’s View offers panoramic vistas of Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, the Anza Borrego Desert, and on clear days, you may see as far as Salton Sea.

If you want to evade the Desert View Trail and close the Canyon Oak Loop, simply follow the sign to keep you on the Canyon Oak Trail until you reach the sign leading you back to the campground. Follow this trail to return back to the trailhead.

History

Back in the mining days, two gold mines were managed on what is now called William Heise County Park. The park is named after William Heise, an inventor of ambulance equipment who purchased the land in hopes of turning it into a recreational area. The mines were sealed in 1941, long after when gold was first discovered in Julian in 1870. In 1967, he sold his land to the County of San Diego and the park opened to the public in 1970.

Canyon Oak Trail Tips

• Keep an eye out for poison oak. There are several spots on the trail where you may find this.
• Wear hiking boots. There is a lot of loose gravel on this trail. I would recommend wearing shoes with good traction.
• Hike with a friend. Although encountering a mountain lion is very rare, there are signs warning their presence.
• For a longer hike, continue onto the 2.25-mile Desert View Trail.
• Stop by nearby Julian afterwards to reward yourself with a delicious slice of apple pie.

Driving Directions

From downtown San Diego, take CA-163 N to I-8 E toward El Centro. In 12.9 miles, keep left at the fork to stay on I-8 E. Continue on I-8 E for 22.2 miles. Take exit 40 for CA-79 N/Japatul Valley Road toward Julian. Turn left onto CA-79 N/Japatul Valley Rd.

In 2.7 miles, turn left to stay on CA-79N. In 30.3 miles, turn left onto Main St. and drive through the town of Julian. Turn left onto Washington St. In 1 mile, turn left onto Pine Hills Rd. In 1 mile turn left onto Deer Lake Park Rd. Turn left onto Frisius Dr. Keep right to continue on Heise Park Rd. Follow Heise Park Rd. past the check-in station. Park in the Canyon Oak Trail day use designated parking spots on the right.

Trail Information

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Dog-Friendly: Yes

Total Distance: 1.65 miles

Trailhead Address: 4945 Heise Park Rd, Julian, CA 920360

Park Brochure: Click here

The post Canyon Oak Trail, William Heise County Park | Julian, CA appeared first on Sun Kissed Hiker.

For some of us in colder regions, winter has one negative: it impedes our outdoor exploration. In winter months, risks of avalanches increase and trail paths get lost in the snow. The belief sinks in that it’s time to retire our hiking boots until spring thaws the cold. Yet, not all hope needs to be lost.

This winter, don’t put your hiking boots away just yet. Instead consider taking a trip to a different state that has ideal conditions for a winter hike. We’re here to help you out by compiling a list of the top 10 states ideal for winter hiking to help you get out and explore more.

California

California is synonymous with nearly year-round ideal weather conditions. The further south you go, the better your chances for experiencing a seemingly endless summer. Pristine weather, unique landscapes, and plenty of hiking trails all contribute to the reasons why California is an optimal choice for a place to take a winter hike. Check out Southern California in particular to avoid the snowfall found on trails further north.

Nevada

Nevada is often overlooked for its prime hiking opportunities, however there are plenty worthy of a trip. Within less than a fifteen-minute drive from the Las Vegas strip, one can experience Red Rock Canyon State Park, a mecca of stunning desert and, you guessed it, red rock terrain. Nevada is also home to Valley of Fire State Park, where you’ll find the iconic Elephant Rock and visually stunning Fire Wave Trail.

Alabama

Looking for some prime southern hiking opportunities? Look no further than the state of Alabama, which experiences generally mild winters. You’ll also miss the humidity and extreme heat experienced in the midst of summer. With 21 state parks that consist of 47,000 acres and over 250 miles of trails, it’s no wonder close to 5 million people pay Alabama a visit each year. And winter may just be the prime season to do so.

Arizona

The state of Arizona hosts a plethora of hiking opportunities, from the iconic Grand Canyon to the red rocks of Sedona. Most winters, Arizona’s top hiking locations become lightly dusted with snow, offering a divergent view than what is often photographed. Tourists also tend to stay away during winter months offering you a much less crowded opportunity to see the state’s natural wonders. If you can handle cold conditions and a few inches of snow, Arizona has plenty of winter hikes for you.

North Carolina

North Carolina is an ideal east coast hiking destination. It is home to a portion of the Appalachian Trail, plenty of mountain ranges, and woodlands. Many hikers are especially enamored with the western side of the state, where the Blue Ridge Mountains extend into Virginia and the Smoky Mountains reach past the Tennessee border. Due to its proximity to the coast, North Carolina often experiences a relatively mild winter making it suitable for winter hikes.

Utah

Utah is well-known for “The Mighty 5” national parks: Arches, Bryce, Canyonlands, Capital Reef, and Zion. Winter weather in Southern Utah, where these five national parks lie, can be relatively mild. This is also considered to be off-season months for the national parks, offering hikers more solitude with far fewer crowds. If you pack the right clothing and keep track of the weather, hiking in winter months and Utah can be highly rewarding.

Hawaii

The ground might be cloaked in snow in your state during winter time, but Hawaii is likely a comfortable 80 degrees. One of the rare states that experiences no snow, Hawaii is the ideal winter hike getaway. Whether you’re hiking the volcanoes on the big island or backpacking Kauai’s Na Pali Coast, there’s something for everyone to enjoy by paying Hawaii a visit this winter. The beaches and tropical drinks are a bonus.

Texas

When one thinks of Texas, generally hiking is the last thing that comes to mind. Yet, it’s important to remember Texas is home to Big Bend National Park, as well as plenty of recreation areas around the state. Texas, for the most part, receives minimal snowfall, making it the ideal winter destination to beat the usual heat and truly enjoy the state’s canyons and grasslands at their finest. Check out the Emory Peak Trail in Big Bend to summit the highest peak in the Chisos Mountains.

South Carolina

South Carolina summers bring heat – the type that sticks to your skin and thickens the air. When winter rolls around, locals look forward to the cool air, free of humidity. Cooler temperatures prompt South Carolina’s adventurers and tourists alike to take advantage of the brisk weather and explore the beautiful state. One destination highly worth visiting is Table Rock State Park, which features 3,083 acres of South Carolina mountain country waiting for you to explore.

Florida

Live on the east coast and looking for a quick, tropical getaway where you can lay out just as easily as you take a winter hike? Look no further than the Sunshine State. South Florida in particular, is your go-to hiking destination this winter. Head to Everglades National Park and walk along the 43 miles of connected trails on Pine Island. This national park showcases some of Florida’s most diverse wildlife and unique landscapes.

Have any other states you think should be on this list? Sound off in the comments below!

Photo Credit: Bureau of Land Management, marksontok, Michelle Callahan, Garden State Hiker, Ken, Miguel Vieira, Zion National Park, Dzmitry Parul, Matteo X,

The post 10 Best States to Take a Winter Hike appeared first on Sun Kissed Hiker.

Many of these can be found just a few miles south of town at William Heise County Park. The park also features numerous campsites, all nestled in miles of woodlands rare to most regions of San Diego. If you’re in need of a short, yet moderately strenuous hike, the Desert View Trail is a great option.

Once you enter William Heise Park, drive uphill towards campsite 87. You’ll find day use parking near the campsites numbered in the 60’s, on the right side of the road you’ll see a large sign that reads “Canyon Oak Trail Day Use Parking”. After parking, continue to follow the paved road uphill until you reach campsite 87, where you’ll see a large wooden kiosk which marks the trailhead.

From the trailhead, follow the well-defined trail as it slowly begins to weave uphill. You’ll encounter a junction, where you can turn left for the Canyon Oak Trail and Desert View Trail (a 2.25-mile loop), or you can turn right for the Desert View Trail. Turn right if you want a bit more of a challenge and to reach Glen’s View, an appropriately placed telescope at the northeastern corner of the park.

We opted to go for the right trail, quickly reaching another junction for the Nature Trail and turning left to continue on the Desert View Trail. The trail will be fairly straightforward from this point, with few spur trails that may lead to confusion. You’ll gain 900 ft. in elevation within your mile, which may be more difficult to climb in warmer months. However, when we hiked in fall it was a pleasant trek, especially with beautiful foliage. As a condolence, the higher you climb, the more rewarding your views will be.

Once you’ve reached the top of the hill, you’ll see a sign leading to Glen’s View. This is a short but worthwhile detour, and the viewpoint will provide you with the most dramatic views of the surrounding landscape. You’ll see another sign at the top of Glen’s View marking the “End of the Trail”. Retrace your steps back to the Desert View Trail and veer right to continue the trail.

In approximately another mile the trail will once again intersect with the Canyon Oak Trail. You can choose to extend your hike another 1.65 miles by going this route, or you can simply conclude the Desert View Trail by ignoring the turn off. We chose to continue our hike, knowing fully well we were about to indulge in pie shortly after our hike.

Depending on the route you choose, you’ll either end up at the same starting point if you only pursue the Desert View Loop or you’ll end up closer to the park entrance of you decide to extend your hike on the Canyon Oak Trail. If you do choose to follow the Canyon Oak Trail, make your way out of the camp area and back uphill along the paved road to return to your parking spot. Keep an eye out for Rio Grande wild turkey and mule deer, both of which we were lucky enough to spot on our hike.

Desert View Trail Tips

• Bring cash. At the time of this post, it costs $3 for day use parking at William Heise County Park.
• Wear hiking boots. Shoes with good traction are a must on this trail.
• Hike with a friend. Although mountain lions are very rarely seen here, it is better to be safe and hike with others.
• Hike in the spring and fall for blooms and foliage.
• Visit the nearby town of Julian after to indulge in some pie. After all, you earned it!

Driving Directions

From downtown San Diego, take CA-163 N to I-8 E toward El Centro. In 12.9 miles, keep left at the fork to stay on I-8 E. Continue on I-8 E for 22.2 miles. Take exit 40 for CA-79 N/Japatul Valley Road toward Julian. Turn left onto CA-79 N/Japatul Valley Rd.

In 2.7 miles, turn left to stay on CA-79N. In 30.3 miles, turn left onto Main St (signs for Julian). Turn left onto Washington St. In 1 mile, turn left onto Pine Hills Rd. In 1 mile turn left onto Deer Lake Park Rd. Turn left onto Frisius Dr. Keep right to continue on Heise Park Rd. Park in the Canyon Oak Trail day use designated parking spots.

Trail Information

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Dog-Friendly: Yes

Total Distance: 2.25 miles

Trailhead Address: 4945 Heise Park Rd, Julian, CA 920360

Park Brochure: Click here

The post Desert View Trail, William Heise County Park | Julian, CA appeared first on Sun Kissed Hiker.

The road trip from Las Vegas to Zion National Park takes approximately five hours to complete. If you’re anything like me, sitting in a car for anything over two hours can seem like an arduous task. Luckily, there are plenty of stops on the way to Zion that can help liven up your road trip. With a little research and plenty of our own personal knowledge, we’ve rounded up the top five places you have to make a stop at on your road trip from Las Vegas to Zion.

Valley of Fire State Park

Valley of Fire State Park features an extravagant display of multi-colored rocks which appear to be the colors of, you guessed it, fire. It features vibrant arches, unique rock formations, and miles of hiking trails that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Valley of Fire is also the perfect introduction to the red rock you will also see once you reach your final destination, Zion National Park. It’s also the first stop you’ll make on your trek to Zion.

Upon landing in Las Vegas, you’ll drive approximately 58 miles Northeast of the Las Vegas Strip to reach Valley of Fire. You’ll undoubtedly be impressed by this Mojave Desert gem and perhaps the best part of Valley of Fire State Park is you can spend as little or as much time here as you’d like. Whether you decide to spend half a day hiking infamous trails such as the Fire Wave Trail, or make a quick pit stop to see an Elephant shaped rock, Valley of Fire should be the first stop on your road trip from Las Vegas to Zion.

Silver Reef Ghost Town

Here in California, we are no strangers to ghost towns caused by the cessation of mining. Utah too had their own mining glory back in the late 1800s, which is evidenced by Silver Reef ghost town. When an extremely rare discovery of silver in sandstone was found, the mining town rapidly boomed over the next few years. By 1880, Silver Reef was home to a few major mining companies and business began to flourish in the area.

Just as quickly as Silver Reef rose, it also fell equally as fast when the boom came to an end. By 1881, a strike came about due to lowering wages. By the time the strike ceased, over half the work force had left Silver Reef. Today, one of the old mining town’s buildings still stands as well as the town’s original jail for visitors to see. Silver Reef is on the way from St. George to Zion, located about 15 miles northeast of St. George and a mile west of Leeds.

Fort Zion Gift Shop

Fort Zion is an eclectic gift shop you’ll find on the outskirts of Zion National Park. We spotted this unique destination from the side of the highway, it’s old-western-style structures beckoning us to come pay a visit. It’s a stop you’ll definitely spot from miles away, seemingly missed placed along the highway. Aside from its replica of a small western-style town, it also features a petting zoo, restaurant and gift shop.

The best part of the roadside attraction is you can make it a fairly quick stop if you’re in a pinch for time. The store has a vast array of unique souvenirs and food ranging from wild boar to prickly pear. The petting zoo outside the gift shop, at the time of our visit, was filled with animals ranging from goats to alpacas. We also explored the small makeshift town which was an adventure in itself. Overall, I’d recommend stopping off at the Fort Zion Gift Shop just for its sheer strangeness and bringing a souvenir along to commemorate this off-road gem.

Moqui Cave

Moqui Cave, despite its name isn’t an actual cave but rather a natural history museum near the town of Kanab, Utah. It features an impressive amount of Native American artifacts as well as a collection of dinosaur foot prints. A few of the coolest artifacts I saw were the fluorescent rocks which shine brightly beneath black light in the back cave. In addition to rocks, a decent number of minerals from around the world are also proudly on display.

Moqui Cave is conveniently located just 5.5 miles north of Kanab on scenic Highway 89. The museum and gift shop are open during the popular summer months from 9am. until 7pm Monday through Saturday. Moqui Cave is about a 30-minute drive from Zion, but is right near the town of Kanab, where you may find yourself staying if you are planning toi spend multiple days at Zion.

Kolob Canyons

If you’re searching for solace from the somewhat heavy crowds you’ll find in the main canyon, the Kolob Canyons is a great alternative. This canyon is in the isolated northwestern section of Zion National Park, and is best known for its staggering deep red Navajo sandstone cliffs. The Kolob Canyons also won’t make you venture far to get to them, at just 40 miles of Zion Canyon, right off Interstate 15.

The five-mile drive through the Kolob Canyons will allow you and your hiking crew to take in some of the best views near Zion. With numerous hiking trails, you can take in the panoramic vistas by both foot and car.

It may be worth mentioning Kolob Canyons isn’t exactly on the way to Zion, but it also isn’t too far off the beaten path and is worth the side stop. It is less than an hour drive out of your way and is on the way to Bryce Canyon, should you be looking to extend your adventure further.

Have any stops you’d want to add on this list? Please let us know in the comments below!

Photo Credit: Jared, Edna Winti, davidd, las vegas lass

The post 5 Stops You Have to Make On a Road Trip From Las Vegas to Zion National Park appeared first on Sun Kissed Hiker.