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Clare HealyExplorer

Adventure storyteller, photographer, and digital strategist from the west. Proud member of The Outbound team.

Explorer

12/14/16

This trail is a quick but extremely steep one! Once you're at the top, you won't want to hike back down. Enjoy the views, the fellow visitors, and the notes that people have left throughout the recent days. The wisdom tree is something truly special amongst the chaos of LA.

Definitely recommend hiking/running up Paintbrush Canyon and down Cascade Canyon, not only for elevation reasons, but also because catching the views of the Grand Teton (and friends) for the first time after hitting Paintbrush Divide will have you on the floor. Then you will enjoy a nice, relaxing descent into Lake Solitude. If you can swing a backcountry permit, camping in either canyon is very enjoyable and will give you time to explore the area more.

This is such a beautiful hike that offers a plethora of incredible views and changing scenery throughout. You start below the Tetons near Leigh Lake and, as you ascend, you will pass by a great amount of wildlife, plant life, rushing rivers, and more. When we went, there was a moose hanging on the trail, but peacefully moved aside after some time. Once at Holly Lake, you can bask in the sunshine near the water and take a breather, but I definitely recommend exploring (or camping in) the Upper Paintbrush area as well!

If you're looking for a solid day hike or overnight in the Tetons, this one tops the list. You can climb up to Lake Solitude through Cascade Canyon or can do an extended hike through Paintbrush Canyon, both of which offer incredible views throughout. Once at Lake Solitude, you'll easily find, well, solitude as the lake is quite large and views of the Tetons are great from every spot.

Such a great camping spot to pair with a few nights in Grand Tetons. The views are incredible and you'll bypass the typical crowds of the park. It is definitely worth hiking away from the road a bit for a more unique, secluded spot so pack light.

If the weather is warm, this is the go-to spot. It can get pretty crowded during the summer, but head in early to claim a spot to hang for the day.

This spot is so easily accessible from downtown Chattanooga and is a great spot to meet an array of awesome locals while climbing. A must-do for anyone with climbing experience.

Yeah, definitely don't expect too much of a waterfall these days, but still worth the trip! Enjoy the solace of the trail and keep your eyes out for the rope swing along the way.

I grew up right here and you really can't go wrong with a stroll along The Strand, a sunset swim, or a surf. It is one of Los Angeles's most iconic beach spots and for good reason - beautiful views, warm water in the summer, and plenty of restaurants and bars nearby. During the spring, summer, and fall, the surf is typically good for newbies and pros alike. Be sure to grab a beer at Shellbacks after!

One of the more popular stops within Death Valley but a must-do! Feel the vastness of the valley floor here then head right up to Dante's Peak to get a panoramic view of down below.

If you are one of the few people in San Francisco who doesn't have or can't have a dog, get your fix here! You will see more dogs here than anywhere else in the city. Also, it is a great place to fly a kite and just stroll around.

Not much of a hike, but some of the most incredible views of San Francisco. I might even say the views are better here than from Twin Peaks, and the crowds are much smaller. Catch one sunset here and you'll be back for many more!

The drive is no joke, but unquestionable worth it. Most people who visit Death Valley do not make it out to The Racetrack, which is a shame, but it means you'll find some solace. Once you park, expect to spend hours reveling in the oddities and wonders. Don't forget to bring a camera!

This spot has been under construction for a while, so you may be confined to a lookout area when visiting. But I would stay say it is worth the stop! Sunset here was one of the most colorful I've ever witnessed.

Sunset is no joke here. We visited in the dead of winter and the lighting was absolutely perfect. Definitely trek a little further than the others to get the shots you want.

Parking is always tough and this place can get pretty packed (with dogs and people) on the weekends, but it is worth doing once! It's an absurdly clear, wide path that takes you to the top where you can take in panoramic views of Los Angeles. Try to hit a clear day and you can see from the ocean to far beyond downtown.

Often crowded, these stairs are tough to miss. You can park right off Jefferson Blvd. and take the trip up. I recommend you head there in the morning or midday as sunset is always packed.

A lot of people bypass this part of Death Valley because of the length of time it takes and because of the uncertainty in the experience, but it by far was one of my favorite attractions. I would say 4-wheel drive is a must, as the terrain changes on a weekly basis. And definitely plan on pulling over to take photos and hike a bit every few miles. There are plenty of trails, interesting rock formations, canyons, and Leadfield ghost town, all worth checking out. One of the most fun drives I've done!

If you visit between October and January, Andrew Molera is the best place in Big Sur to see the Monarch Butterflies. They cluster in trees in the morning and fly around during the day. This place has some great, extensive trails, or you can keep your stroll pretty relaxed and still enjoy breathtaking views. Just keep your eyes out for poison oak!

The seals alone are worth the trip. But the stunning cliffs and mystical trees will make you want to stay. Bring water, snacks, a sweatshirt and hang out all day!

You must plan ahead and get on the early ferry to fully take advantage of the Angel Island hiking. Bring food, drinks, and towels along with you. Once the ferry docks, beat the crowds and head straight for the trailhead. Get up to the peak, enjoy the panorama views, then have your pick of beaches or lawns to relax for the remainder of the day. There is a little cafe on the island if food or drink is needed.

A mandatory stop for anyone driving through Big Sur! Beautiful beach and great surfing right off of highway 1.

One of the hardest places to get a reservation, as there are only 5-6 campsites (depending on handicap site availability), but if you are persistent, it is doable and totally worth it! Pretty accessible campsite with unreal views and lots of room to explore - old military bunkers, beach area, tree swings, etc. A clear night here is any night photographer's dream come true.

Ocean Beach, albeit a bit chilly most nights, is perfect scenery for a summer/fall bonfire. As everyone else has mentioned, get there early and make a day of it. Cruise over to Safeway (across the street) for firewood, beer, and food or to Kawika's Ocean Beach Deli for some of the best sandwiches in town.