Tag: Nature

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Red Rock Canyon State Park- Cantil, CA

Cherry and the Hoot

Out of all of the places I’ve explored in Southern California, Red Rock Canyon State Park is probably one of my favorites. The park is located in Cantil, CA, and can often be mistaken for the Red Rock National Conservation Area in Nevada. Although they have similar canyons, they are two different parks. Luckily, I’ve been to both, so I’ll make another post on Nevada soon! 

The canyons and cliffs at the State Park are just mindblowing and beautiful. The shapes and colors vary and are beyond unique. Since I’m a “daredevil,” I love climbing the rocks and admiring the marvelous views from a high elevation. The only thing I dislike is taking pictures because they do absolutely no justice. You have to be there to understand this experience because it is an experience.

Based on my visits, the trails there are pretty much like walking trails. I’m sure there are challenging routes, but my sister is scared of heights, so I never bothered researching. Honestly, hiking the area is okay, but I’m more interested in the various small caves and unique canyons. When I hike, besides seeking peacefulness, I’m always looking for cool things to take photos of, so it isn’t unlikely for me to go off-trail.    

One cool thing about the park is you’re able to camp, so I’ll for sure be doing that when the weather warms again. I’ve visited the park about three times, and each experience was different due to exploring various areas. Even though I have been multiple times, I’ve never explored the entire park, but that is a goal. A dull moment seems almost impossible when revisiting, and that is what I love about the area.  

Since I’m terrified of bees, that is probably my only complaint. In my opinion, the place is pretty much infested with them. If I’ve seen more than two, that equals infested to me. Haha! Being stung by a bee is something I’ve never experienced and not something I’d want to feel. I’ll never forget being on the edge of a cliff, and what do you know? A buzzing bee near my face- yes, I almost panicked and was done after that!

Besides the bees, Red Rock Canyon State Park is a remarkable piece of art and nature to see if you’re adventurous. Because it is a desert area, I highly suggest taking plenty of water because it does get scorching hot there (even in November). There are numerous picnic areas and restrooms, which are always clean, so that’s a plus. I have not encountered any snakes, but I’m sure, they’re there!

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Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park- Agua Dulce, CA

Cherry and the Hoot

Southern California is such a beautiful area to examine. From the sunny beaches to the Joshua tree and jackrabbit filled deserts. The peaceful mountains to the remarkable canyons, and everything else. All of its nature is simply breathtaking, and I absolutely love it. Since I live an outrageous amount of miles away from my employer, I have the pleasure of taking several scenic routes. My two main ways of travel are driving through the mountains of Angeles National Forest or hitting the busy freeway. Today, I prefer the mountains, but when I first moved to California almost two years ago, I always took the highway because I felt it was the “safer” of the two.

During the day while driving, I love admiring this treasure. Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park was formed in Santa Clarita and approximately 30-40 minutes north of Los Angeles. The first time I passed by, I did not imagine it being an actual park; I only assumed it was another sensational scenic view. After months of commuting to work, I finally decided it was time to visit and explore these massive and phenomenal rocks. My first visit to the park was quite exciting and, for sure, an expedition. I felt like Dora the Explorer during this hike because there were so many things to explore.

When arriving at the park, there’s an information board with a few neat facts. The only points I’m going to mention are the movies filmed in the park. Yes, movies! Some popular ones include The Flintstones, Wild Wild West, Holes, Over The Hedge, and Planet of the Apes. Of course, the board also included warnings of wild animals such as bobcats, mountain lions, coyotes, and snakes. I was not thrilled about that, but hey, that’s what comes with the hiking lifestyle; I have to accept the scary possibilities. Luckily, my sister and I were able to complete the hike without being attacked- haha, successful!

The overall trip throughout the area was delicate but complicated to begin. Even with using the AllTrails app, it was a challenge to find the start of the trail. I will admit that it is relatively easy to get lost within the rocks. There’s isn’t a super clear pathway throughout the entire park, so I’m thankful for my hiking app. Since I’m kind of a thrill-seeker, I found excitement in climbing some of the rocks to get better views, so that was astonishing. One thing that amazed me was the horse trail and how steep it was. All I could envision was a horse plunging down the hill. Plus, I was looking forward to seeing a horse but no luck- there was nothing but enormous piles of horse manure.

Exploring this area was the first time I discovered actual cactus. Growing up on the East Coast spotting cactus is nonexistent, so I was super stoked about those findings. I’ve always loved the plant and dreamed of seeing the larger ones in person, but unfortunately, these weren’t large. They were little mini baby cactus, but I was still happy with seeing them. Recently I tried to grow some, and it was an epic fail. I may try again soon, so we’ll see how that goes!

For sure, if you’re ever in SoCal and would like to experience this stunning park, go for it because my photos do absolutely no justice! However, I highly suggest going during the beginning of fall or spring because it was freezing during winter and scorching hot during mid-spring. Be sure to bring plenty of water because I don’t doubt the possibilities of getting lost without the proper guidance app or an actual map for those who are “old school.” Wearing sunscreen and a hat would also be ideal due to there being little to no shady areas. I hope at least one of my readers will be able to visit this beauty so I can hear all about it! Please don’t hurt yourself trying to take an epic photo climbing on the rocks, but please, “Live a Little” while doing so.

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Devil’s Punchbowl Loop Trail- Pearblossom, CA

Cherry and the Hoot

With so many trails to explore in SoCal, I try to hike a new location each time. There are a few I would revisit, but why when I have various options to choose from? It’s such a great feeling to be able to view the mountains or parks from multiple angles and heights. Not only that, it’s intriguing how each site gives me a different unique experience. Nature is amazing, and I adore all of its offerings because it never gets boring, and it’s fun to explore and learn.

Devil’s Punchbowl Loop Trail is a one-mile trail located in Pearblossom, California. Just before the state shut down all trails due to Covid-19, my sister, brother-in-law, and I were able to explore this adventurous park. It was our last hike before everything closed, and I’m glad we were able to do so. We honestly were not expecting the park to be packed, but it was. From my previous hikes, I knew there weren’t many people out due to the cold. This situation was different, and I assume it was because they didn’t have anything else to do. The parks and beaches were slammed with so many families out and about causing the closures.

The start of the trail was pretty interesting, there was a sign-in box for visitors to write their names and where they were from. I hadn’t experienced that and thought it was cool to see everyone coming from so many different states (possibly even countries). The hike in itself was a breeze but definitely a work out towards the end- going uphill almost killed me! The massive rocks were amazing to see- the next time I go I’m going to climb them. My favorite part of the hike was towards the end when we discovered a soothing creek at the bottom of the trail. There’s something about the sound of a creek that I absolutely love! I guess it’s because creeks give me a sense of relaxation, peace, and serenity- causing my heart to smile.

I highly recommend visiting this park if you’re ever in the area because it isn’t too bad of a hike. I use an app called All Trails (I’ll talk about it soon in another post), and it classifies the trail as easy, even though it seemed longer due to all of the turns. If you are afraid of heights, there are a few steep areas but nothing too bizarre- then again, I’m not scared of heights so you may think otherwise. Some may think many areas are dangerous, but I’m a daredevil so I like taking a little risk at times. Since we went with snow still on the mountains and freezing cool, there weren’t many annoying bugs out. I’m sure there’s plenty during the hotter months. I can assure you all I will be visiting this beautiful scenery again and staying for lunch to really enjoy the peacefulness!

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Monrovia Canyon Waterfall- Monrovia, CA

Cherry and the Hoot

Hiking alone is probably something most wouldn’t dare consider. The good thing is, I’m not most and I actually prefer to hike solo. My family for sure doesn’t agree with those choices but hey, I choose to not live my life in fear. Hiking gives me a sense of happiness and peace so going alone is best. So yes, I hike alone most of the time.

Lately, since the weather has been warming either I’ve been terrified of running into a rattlesnake or thanks to this particular trail- BEARS! Plus, due to Covid19, California keeps shutting down trails so I haven’t been able to explore too many new trails.

Monrovia Canyon Park is located in Monrovia, California. The waterfall can be found deep in the park making it an “out and back” trip. Before this journey I was pumped and excited. I went early in the morning before work thinking it was going to be refreshing. As I’m preparing myself in the parking lot, I notice a huge bear statue and that to me was a red flag. I’m well aware wild animals happen to be throughout all or most of the trails I hike. Seeing a bear was not something I was prepared to encounter especially being by myself. I honestly did not get concerned until I headed towards the start of the trail and a warning sign read, “ATTENTION, YOU ARE ENTERING BEAR HABITAT.” Ha!

It took everything for me continue and I had no choice because I had to get to work on time, and I didn’t drive all that way to just leave! Luckily, I did not see any bears, rattlesnakes, or mountain lions and I felt more comfortable seeing other women walking alone. I stopped one Asian woman to ask her about bears and she said, “Oh honey, it’s no scary! You’ll be fine, I’m here everyday”. Okay, that was relieving and I was able to enjoy the remainder of my trip with no worries. I did see a cave but I kept it pushing as fast as I could!

When I successfully made it to the waterfall the short expedition was well worth it. The waterfall was so beautiful and I was able to relax alone on a boulder for a few minutes to admire the scenery. Although I was able to capture a lot of amazing photos my favorite part was walking alongside the stream and listening to the peacefulness of nature. I had to stop a few times to take videos of the soundscapes for memories. I will definitely be returning to the park (especially now that I have a new iPhone with a much better camera).

Enjoy the journey!

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Towsley Canyon Loop Trail- Newhall, CA

Cherry and the Hoot

Hiking or walking trails will always be one of my favorite recreations when possible. I tend to love most of my destinations and all they have to offer. The magnificence of nature, the mindblowing views, the serenity, the fresh air, etc. are all cool bonuses of exploring trails. I will be truthful and admit; I’m not too fond of the “creatures” that come with outdoor nature (weird? I know). When I arrive at a new site, the first thing I locate and review is an information board for animals. Most of the warnings are typically for rattlesnakes and coyotes. Alright, I’m okay with that as long as I don’t see either because what are the odds, right? Luckily, I had never encountered either until recently.

One of my latest hiking adventures officially scarred me for life. This trails located at Ed Davis Park at Towsley Canyon near Newhall, Santa Clarita. Of course, there were signs for rattlesnakes and now the weather had warmed up- I was expecting to spot one or two. At first, I was not nervous because the trail appeared heavily trafficked. Los Angeles had just reopened all trails and parks so the paths were incredibly overgrown. No biggie, let’s get this 5.6 mile travel knocked out and enjoy the rest of my day. Ha! With only a few feet into the hike, you immediately hear the snakes rattling their tails. Talk about being freaked out! My biggest concern was catching one camouflaged within the overgrown shrubs off guard. Sheesh! I attempted to move expeditiously (T.I.’s voice), but moving fast wasn’t it because although I walk consistently, apparently, I’m still out of shape!

As I’m walking, I approach a swampy mud puddle infested with bees. I’ve never been stung by a bee; I try to avoid them at all costs- PERIOD. Due to fear, I didn’t have the strength to jump, but my sister and brother-in-law accompanied me, making them my motivators for leaping across the puddle. I was terrified, closed my eyes, took a deep breath, and went for it. As I successfully jumped over the pool and opened my eyes, lo and behold, a big ass black rattlesnake magically appeared out of NOWHERE. I almost pissed my pants jumping around and screaming my head off! Talk about a panic attack. I had never been so scared in my life. I just knew I was about to have a heart attack, but I survived (barely). At that moment, I accepted I was officially on my scariest hike!

Besides the snakes, the hike was enjoyable. It seemed like we were in a jungle- just missing Tarzan. The views were beyond amazing. Had I been more fit, I would have been able to enjoy it more because those hills were killer, and my breathing was entirely off. Most of the struggle with my breathing was due to being scared of possibly running into another rattlesnake. And we did run into another snake, but he wasn’t a threat. I was trying my best to prevent an anxiety attack because I was paranoid. Once we arrived at the top, I was able to relax and calm my nerves drastically. The remainder of the excursion wasn’t as terrifying with me worried about more snakes because I knew the end was near!

I’m glad I was able to experience the hike but probably won’t return until the temperature changes, and I’m more fit!

Enjoy a few pics of my journey:

Cute little bridge at the entrance.
Tar or asphalt pits throughout the forest.
“No face, no case”
This pictures does no justice for this breathtaking view.
Plenty of these little creatures roaming around.