Nowhere in California does the west feel more alive then in the Owens Valley. These are the quintessential landscapes that drew pioneers to this part of the country. With a dramatic backdrop of the state's most impressive mountains guiding one up and down the great 395, one is never far from inspiration. If there was a god of nature, she would live in this valley. If there was one small town we would live in at least seasonally, based on the … [Read more...]
Mt. Whitney, CA – Whitney Hike
Introduction When you first drive out of Lone Pine you will see several mountains that look very tall. In fact Lone Pine Peak to the far left of Whitney looks much taller then Whitney itself. This is an illusion stemming from the fact that Lone Pine Peak is much closer in the foreground. Lone Pine Peak in actuality is about 13,000 feet. Mt. Whitney is the spire situated on the right side of all the other sharp jagged spires. It is 14,494 feet … [Read more...]
Mt. Whitney, CA – Big Pine Hotels
Note: The prices listed below range from single person/one bed to double occupancy/2 beds. Prices are subject to change without notice. All Phone Numbers are in the 760 area code unless otherwise noted. Big Pine Motel is located at 370 South Main Street and they are rated 2 stars. 14 rooms. They have a complete courtyard with a gazebo and benches. One story. They also have BBQ and fish cleaning facilities. Easy access to the … [Read more...]
Mt. Whitney, CA – Independance
Like Big Pine, Independence is a good starting point for various attractions in the surrounding area. This is the quintessential Eastern Sierra Nevada town - small, laid back and full of history. Oh and surrounded by the gorgeous Eastern Sierra Nevadas. Town features quiet residential neighborhoods with homes that date back decades. And some very historical buildings. It is also the county seat for Inyo. And was the home to noted author Mary … [Read more...]
Mt. Whitney, CA – Lone Pine Restaurants
Prices are subject to change without notice. All phone numbers are in the 760 area code unless otherwise noted. Bonanza Mexican Restaurant is located at 104 N Main in the center of Lone Pine. Located in an 'old' looking western style building. Focuses on basic Mexican food. What looks out of place in a town like this - painted on an exterior wall of the restaurant is the social media mural - highlighting some of the … [Read more...]
Gold Country, CA – Coulterville
Coulterville is located at the junction of Highways 132 and 49. This old mining town used to be a booming community along the first stage coach road into Yosemite Valley. Now with approximately 115 people it is just barely reaping some of the benefits of the tourist boom that other historic mining towns have seen in more recent years. Coulterville is slightly removed from the main mining tourist town areas therefore not as many people drive … [Read more...]
Gold Country, CA – Pinecrest Lake
Pinecrest Lake is located on Highway 108. This road is closed in the winter past the small town of Strawberry, but it is open to Pinecrest and Dodge Ridge Ski resort. The towns of Sugar Pine, Confidence, Mi-Wuk Village, Sierra Village, Long Barn are all south west of Pinecrest Lake on Highway 108. Pinecrest Lake is located at about 5,600 feet. It is a beautiful small clear blue lake surrounded by forested mountains. There is a marina and a FREE … [Read more...]
Spokane, WA – Attractions
Spokane offers such a wide diversity of attractions and experiences, that even the most vanilla type personality will not be bored. Those who simply want to visit Spokane in the summer and read books can do so in numerous park. Shopping is plentiful. Intriguing architecture. Plenty of museums. Family attractions including for children. Manito Park is well worth a visit, especially for those who enjoy plants and formal gardens however beware … [Read more...]
Spokane, WA – Helena Restaurants
Bert & Ernie's of Helena is located in the historic downtown area. They offer classic American food and a good selection of brews. For more information visit: www.bertandernieshelena.com Jorgenson's Restaurant & Lounge is located at 1720 11th Street. They are rated 2 stars and they serve American cuisine. They are from 6:30am until 10pm Monday through Saturday. On Sunday they are open from 6:30am until 9pm. Dinner prices range from $18 to $25. … [Read more...]
San Francisco, CA – Shopping
There are an incredible array of shopping centers, malls, and shopping districts in San Francisco. There are vast tourist shopping areas selling everything from electronic equipment to post cards. When I play tourist south of Union square, Chinatown, and south of Market street, I am often amazed by the great number of shops all selling similar items. As you walk through these shopping sections soon every store almost looks the same. You will … [Read more...]
