Travel: 2024

Saturday, November 16, 2024

Snow chain tire sizes for vehicles

2013 Toyota Sienna LE

235/60 R17

17’’ wheels
X-Large size snow socks

2024 Tesla Model 3

235/45R18

18" Front/Rear 18 x 8.5J 38

18" König CG-9 102

Hankook Kingergy GT tires by default

Large size snow socks

2002 Toyota Camry XLE

215/60R16

Large size snow socks

Existing chains:

chains fits sae class s vehicles

Thursday, October 10, 2024

Winter 2024 bus tours from Bay Area

1. Grand Canyon, Teton, Yellowstone, Canyonlands, Arches, Antelope Canyon, Monument Valley from Los Angeles.

https://www.taketours.com/las-vegas-nv/9-day-grand-canyon-antelope-canyon-yellowstone-arches-grand-teton-and-jackson-hole-winter-tour-from-los-angeles-las-vegas-5-star-hotel-in-vegas--886-19795.html

2. Antelope, Teton, Yellowstone, Mt.Rushmore from LA:

https://www.goldenbustours.com/13-day-los-angeles-to-san-francisco-pebble-beach-crazy-horse-antelope-canyon-salt-lake-city-17-mile-drive-grand-teton-yellowstone-national-park-rocky-mountain-las-vegas-night-tour.html

3. Yosemite, Yellowstone, Teton, Mt.Rushmore, Antelope.

https://www.goldenbustours.com/11-day-san-francisco-to-las-vegas-mount-rushmore-st-george-grand-teton-national-park-las-vegas-with-helicopter-night-tour.html#=It-day-9

4. Yosemite, Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Los Angeles (theme parks) 10 days. Ends in LA.

https://www.taketours.com/san-francisco-ca/10-day-san-francisco-yosemite-national-park-las-vegas-and-los-angeles-semi-self-guided-tour-from-san-francisco-with-airport-pickup-286-19745.html

5. Yosemite, Los Angeles (theme parks), Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Glen Canyon, Lake Powell. Ends in LA. 9 days.

https://www.taketours.com/san-francisco-ca/9-day-grand-canyon-antelope-canyon-yosemite-and-theme-park-tour-from-san-francisco-with-airport-pickup-586-19547.html

6. Yosemite, Los Angeles (theme parks or Joshua tree), Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Glen Canyon, Lake Powell. 9 days.

https://www.goldenbustours.com/9-day-san-francisco-to-las-vegas-flyover-las-vegas-kings-canyon-national-park-east-rim-grand-canyon-lake-powell-tour.html#=overview

7. Grand Canyon, Bryce, Zion, Monument Valley, Capitol Reef, Las Vegas, Canyonlands, Arches

https://www.goldenbustours.com/8-day-san-francisco-to-zion-np-grand-canyon-np-bryce-canyon-np-monument-valley-lower-antelope-canyon-wilson-arch-las-vegas-tour.html

8. Yosemite, Los Angeles (theme parks), Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Glen Canyon, Lake Powell. Ends in LA. 8 days.

https://www.taketours.com/san-francisco-ca/8-day-grand-canyon-antelope-canyon-yosemite-and-theme-park-tour-from-san-francisco-with-airport-pickup-486-19547.html

9. Yosemite, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Glen Canyon, Lake Powell. Ends in LA. 7 days.

https://www.taketours.com/san-francisco-ca/7-day-grand-canyon-antelope-canyon-monterey-san-francisco-and-yosemite-national-park-tour-from-from-san-francisco-686-19534.html

10. Yosemite, Las Vegas, Hoover Dam, Sedona, Monument Valley, Antelope Canyon, Valley of Fire. Ends in LV. 7 days.

https://www.taketours.com/san-francisco-ca/7-day-magnificent-west-san-francisco-las-vegas-yosemite-monument-valley-tour-from-san-francisco-037-6186.html

11. Northern California, Oregon, Washington

https://www.goldenbustours.com/7-day-san-francisco-to-napa-valley-redwood-national-forest-washington-state-capitol-building-amtrak-coast-starlight-burney-falls-woodburn-outlets-tour.html

12. Yosemite, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Grand Canyon. Ends in LA. 6 days.

https://www.taketours.com/san-francisco-ca/6-day-las-vegas-or-neighborhood-san-francisco-and-yosemite-national-park-tour-from-san-francisco-with-airport-pickup-186-19745.html

13. Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce, Canyonlands, Arches, Antelope Canyon. 6 days.

https://www.taketours.com/san-francisco-ca/6-day-zion-bryce-canyon-canyonlands-arches-antelope-canyon-and-grand-canyon-grand-circle-from-san-francisco-186-19687.html

Overall trips:

https://www.taketours.com/search/tour.do?dep_ids=20&pageNum=undefined&order=durationlong&fdep=20&filterStartDates=2024-12-18~2025-01-01&

https://www.goldenbustours.com/san-francisco-tours

Wednesday, October 09, 2024

Winter 2024 Road trip from Bay Area

1. Yosemite, Grand Canyon, LV, LA

Fri, Dec 20: Drive to Merced

Sat, Dec 21: Yosemite

Sun, Dec 22: LA

Mon, Dec 23: LA

Tue, Dec 24: Drive to LV. Mojave National Preserve en-route.

Wed, Dec 25: LV

Thu, Dec 26: Drive to Grand Canyon

Fri, Dec 27: Grand Canyon

Sat, Dec 28: LV

Sun, Dec 29: Back

2. Death Valley, Grand Canyon, LV

1. Day 1 Drive to Death Valley NP; Stay (night 1) (6.5 hrs drive)

2. Night 1: Stay at DV Park

3. Day 2 look around DV and 2 hour drive to LV; stay (night 2) (2 Hour drive)

4. Night 2 Check in at LV

5. Day3 Las Vegas stay (night 3) (local drives if any)

6. Night 3 Stay at LV

7. Day 4 : Drive to Page (night 4) (4.5 hr drive)

8. Night 4: Stay at Page, Az.

9. Day 5 : GC (night 5) (local drives)

10. Night 5: Stay at Page, Az.

11. Day 6 : Drive to Kingman via Flagstaff, all view points on the way (night 6) (4.5 hr drive)

12. Night 6: Kingman, Az (for sleep break)

13. Day 7 : Drive back home (9 hours)

3. Yosemite, LA, Grand Canyon, Death Valley, LV

Fri, Dec 20: Drive to Merced

Sat, Dec 21: Yosemite, back to Merced

Sun, Dec 22: Drive to Death Valley.

Mon, Dec 23: Death Valley

Tue, Dec 24: Drive to LV. Mojave National Preserve & possibly Castle Mountains en-route.

Wed, Dec 25: LV

Thu, Dec 26: LV

Fri, Dec 27: Hoover Dam. Drive to Grand Canyon. Stay near depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams or Flagstaff or Page.

Sat, Dec 28: Grand Canyon

Sun, Dec 29: Drive to LA

Mon, Dec 30: LA

Tue, Dec 31: LA

Wed, Jan 1: Drive back home

4. Death Valley, Grand Canyon, warmer South Arizona

Sat, Dec 21: Drive to Death Valley

Sun, Dec 22: Death Valley.

Mon, Dec 23: Death Valley. Drive to Las Vegas in night.

Tue, Dec 24: Las Vegas

Wed, Dec 25: Las Vegas

Thu, Dec 26: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams or Flagstaff.

Fri, Dec 27: Grand Canyon South Rim. Horseshoe Bend.

Sat, Dec 28: Sunset Crater volcano, Wupatki National Monument

Sun, Dec 29: Sedona, Red Rock state park, Slide Rock state park, Tonto natural bridge state park

Mon, Dec 30: Lost Dutchman state park, Picaho Peak state park, Saguaro national park

Tue, Dec 31: Kartcher Caverns state park, Catalina state park, start driving back

Wed, Jan 1: Joshua Tree national park, Drive back home

5. Death Valley, Grand Canyon, colder South Utah

Sat, Dec 21: Drive to Death Valley

Sun, Dec 22: Death Valley.

Mon, Dec 23: Death Valley. Drive to Las Vegas in night.

Tue, Dec 24: Las Vegas

Wed, Dec 25: Las Vegas

Thu, Dec 26: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams or Flagstaff.

Fri, Dec 27: Grand Canyon South Rim. Horseshoe Bend. Stay at Page

Sat, Dec 28: Antelope Canyon, Rainbow Bridge, Glen Canyon

Sun, Dec 29: Grand Staircase Escalante, White Pocket, Coral Pink Sand dunes, Spooky Slot canyon, Peekaboo Red Canyon Slot (technically challenging)

Mon, Dec 30: Bryce Canyon, Kodachrome Basin

Tue, Dec 31: Cedar Breaks, Zion, stay in LV

Wed, Jan 1: Drive back home

6a. Grand Canyon, colder South Utah

Sat, Dec 21: Drive to Las Vegas

Sun, Dec 22: Las Vegas.

Mon, Dec 23: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams or Flagstaff.

Tue, Dec 24: Grand Canyon South Rim. Horseshoe Bend. Stay at Page

Wed, Dec 25: Antelope Canyon, Rainbow Bridge, Glen Canyon

Thu, Dec 26: Natural Bridges, Canyonlands

Fri, Dec 27: Dead Horse Point, Arches

Sat, Dec 28: Goblin Valley, Capitol Reef

Sun, Dec 29: Bryce Canyon, Kodachrome Basin

Mon, Dec 30: Cedar Breaks, Zion, stay in LV

Tue, Dec 31: LV

Wed, Jan 1: Drive back home

6b. Grand Canyon, colder South Utah

Sat, Dec 21: Drive to California City

Sun, Dec 22: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams or Flagstaff.

Mon, Dec 23: Grand Canyon South Rim. Horseshoe Bend. Stay at Page

Tue, Dec 24: Antelope Canyon, Rainbow Bridge, Glen Canyon

Wed, Dec 25: Monument Valley, Natural Bridges, Canyonlands

Thu, Dec 26: Dead Horse Point, Arches

Fri, Dec 27: Goblin Valley, Capitol Reef

Sat, Dec 28: Bryce Canyon, Kodachrome Basin

Sun, Dec 29: Cedar Breaks, Zion, stay in LV.

Mon, Dec 30: LV

Tue, Dec 31: LV

Wed, Jan 1: Drive back home

7. Grand Canyon, colder South Utah, more time

Sat, Dec 21: Drive to California City

Sun, Dec 22: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams or Flagstaff.

Mon, Dec 23: Grand Canyon South Rim. Horseshoe Bend. Stay at Page

Tue, Dec 24: Antelope Canyon, Rainbow Bridge, Glen Canyon, Zebra Slot Canyon, Tunnel Slot Canyon (can skip)

Wed, Dec 25: Monument Valley, Goosenecks State Park, Bear Ears National Monument, Valley of the Gods, Natural Bridges

Thu, Dec 26: Canyonlands, Dead Horse Point

Fri, Dec 27: Arches

Sat, Dec 28: Goblin Valley, Little Wild Horse Slot Canyon, Capitol Reef

Sun, Dec 29: Capitol Reef

Mon, Dec 30: Bryce Canyon, Kodachrome Basin

Tue, Dec 31: Cedar Breaks, Zion

Wed, Jan 1: Great Basin

Thu, Jan 2: Las Vegas

Fri, Jan 3: Las Vegas

Sat, Jan 4: Death Valley

Sun, Jan 5: Back home

8. Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, surrounding

Sat, Dec 21: Drive to California City

Sun, Dec 22: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams or Flagstaff.

Mon, Dec 23: Grand Canyon South Rim. Horseshoe Bend.

Tue, Dec 24: Bryce Canyon

Wed, Dec 25: Kodachrome Basin

Thu, Dec 26: Cedar Breaks

Fri, Dec 27: Zion

Sat, Dec 28: Great Basin

Sun, Dec 29: Las Vegas

Mon, Dec 30: Las Vegas

Tue, Dec 31: Las Vegas

Wed, Jan 1: Death Valley

Thu, Jan 2: Death Valley

Fri, Jan 3: Joshua tree

Sat, Jan 4: LA or Big Sur

Sun, Jan 5: Back home

9. San Francisco, Grand Canyon, colder South Utah, more time

Sat, Dec 21

Golden Gate Bridge

Sun, Dec 22

Drive to California City

Mon, Dec 23

Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon Junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Tue, Dec 24

Grand Canyon South Rim. Horseshoe Bend. Stay at Page.

Wed, Dec 25

Antelope Canyon, Rainbow Bridge, Glen Canyon, Zebra Slot Canyon, Tunnel Slot Canyon (can skip).

Thu, Dec 26

Monument Valley, Goosenecks State Park, Bear Ears National Monument, Valley of the Gods, Natural Bridges.

Fri, Dec 27

Canyonlands, Dead Horse Point.

Sat, Dec 28

Arches.

Sun, Dec 29

Goblin Valley, Little Wild Horse Slot Canyon, Capitol Reef.

Mon, Dec 30

Bryce Canyon, Kodachrome Basin.

Tue, Dec 31

Cedar Breaks, Zion.

Wed, Jan 1

Great Basin.

Thu, Jan 2

Las Vegas

Fri, Jan 3

Las Vegas.

Sat, Jan 4

Back Home

10. San Francisco, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, surrounding

Sat, Dec 21: Golden Gate Bridge

Sun, Dec 22: Drive to California City

Mon, Dec 23: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Tue, Dec 24: Grand Canyon South Rim, Horseshoe Bend.

Wed, Dec 25: Bryce Canyon

Thu, Dec 26: Kodachrome Basin

Fri, Dec 27: Cedar Breaks

Sat, Dec 28: Zion

Sun, Dec 29: Great Basin

Mon, Dec 30: Las Vegas

Tue, Dec 31: Las Vegas

Wed, Jan 1: Las Vegas

Thu, Jan 2: Death Valley

Fri, Jan 3: Big Sur

Sat, Jan 4: Back home

11. San Francisco, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, surrounding

Sat, Dec 21: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Sun, Dec 22: Drive to California City

Mon, Dec 23: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Tue, Dec 24: Grand Canyon South Rim, Horseshoe Bend.

Wed, Dec 25: Page. Antelope Canyon.

Thu, Dec 26: Kodachrome Basin

Fri, Dec 27: Bryce

Sat, Dec 28: Cedar Breaks

Sun, Dec 29: Zion

Mon, Dec 30: Las Vegas

Tue, Dec 31: Las Vegas

Wed, Jan 1: Las Vegas

Thu, Jan 2: Death Valley

Fri, Jan 3: Big Sur

Sat, Jan 4: Back home

12. San Francisco, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, surrounding

Sat, Dec 21: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Sun, Dec 22: Drive to California City

Mon, Dec 23: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Tue, Dec 24: Grand Canyon South Rim, Horseshoe Bend.

Wed, Dec 25: Page. Antelope Canyon.

Thu, Dec 26: Kodachrome Basin

Fri, Dec 27: Bryce

Sat, Dec 28: Cedar Breaks, Zion

Sun, Dec 29: Las Vegas

Mon, Dec 30: Las Vegas

Tue, Dec 31: Death Valley

Wed, Jan 1: Channel Islands

Thu, Jan 2: Big Sur, back home

13. San Francisco, Grand Canyon, colder South Utah, aggressive

Sat, Dec 21

Golden Gate Bridge

Sun, Dec 22

Drive to California City

Mon, Dec 23

Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon Junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Tue, Dec 24

Grand Canyon South Rim. Horseshoe Bend. Stay at Page.

Wed, Dec 25

Antelope Canyon, Rainbow Bridge, Glen Canyon, Zebra Slot Canyon, Tunnel Slot Canyon (can skip).

Thu, Dec 26

Monument Valley, Goosenecks State Park, Bear Ears National Monument, Valley of the Gods, Natural Bridges.

Fri, Dec 27

Canyonlands, Dead Horse Point.

Sat, Dec 28

Arches.

Sun, Dec 29

Goblin Valley, Little Wild Horse Slot Canyon, Capitol Reef.

Mon, Dec 30

Bryce Canyon, Kodachrome Basin.

Tue, Dec 31

Cedar Breaks, Zion. Drive to Vegas.

Wed, Jan 1

Las Vegas.

Thu, Jan 2

Las Vegas

Fri, Jan 3

Back Home

14. San Francisco, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, southern Utah, relaxed

Sat, Dec 21: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Sun, Dec 22: Drive to California City

Mon, Dec 23: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Tue, Dec 24: Grand Canyon South Rim, Horseshoe Bend.

Wed, Dec 25: Page. Antelope Canyon.

Thu, Dec 26: Kodachrome Basin

Fri, Dec 27: Bryce

Sat, Dec 28: Cedar Breaks

Sun, Dec 29: Zion

Mon, Dec 30: Las Vegas

Tue, Dec 31: Las Vegas

Wed, Jan 1: Las Vegas

Thu, Jan 2: Drive back home

15. San Francisco, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Death Valley, Southern Utah

Sat, Dec 21: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Sun, Dec 22: Drive dear Death Valley

Mon, Dec 23: Death Valley

Tue, Dec 24: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Wed, Dec 25: Grand Canyon South Rim, Horseshoe Bend.

Thu, Dec 26: Page. Antelope Canyon.

Fri, Dec 27: Kodachrome Basin

Sat, Dec 28: Bryce

Sun, Dec 29: Cedar Breaks, Zion

Mon, Dec 30: Las Vegas

Tue, Dec 31: Las Vegas

Wed, Jan 1: Las Vegas

Thu, Jan 2: Drive back home

16. San Francisco, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Death Valley, Southern Utah

Sat, Dec 21: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Sun, Dec 22: Big Sur

Mon, Dec 23: Channel Islands

Tue, Dec 24: Death Valley

Wed, Dec 25: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Thu, Dec 26: Grand Canyon South Rim, Horseshoe Bend.

Fri, Dec 27: Page. Antelope Canyon.

Sat, Dec 28: Kodachrome Basin, Bryce

Sun, Dec 29: Cedar Breaks, Zion

Mon, Dec 30: Las Vegas

Tue, Dec 31: Las Vegas

Wed, Jan 1: Las Vegas

Thu, Jan 2: Drive back home

17. San Francisco, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Death Valley, Southern Arizona

Sat, Dec 21: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Sun, Dec 22: Big Sur

Mon, Dec 23: Channel Islands

Tue, Dec 24: Death Valley

Wed, Dec 25: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Thu, Dec 26: Grand Canyon South Rim, Horseshoe Bend.

Fri, Dec 27: Sunset Crater volcano, Wupatki National Monument

Sat, Dec 28: Sedona

Sun, Dec 29: Saguaro national park

Mon, Dec 30: Las Vegas

Tue, Dec 31: Las Vegas

Wed, Jan 1: Las Vegas

Thu, Jan 2: Drive back home

Sun, Dec 29:

Mon, Dec 30: Tue, Dec 31: Kartcher Caverns state park, Catalina state park, start driving back

Detours near Las Vegas:

Valley of Fire state park, Red Rock Canyon state park, Tule Springs fossil beds, Kershaw-Ryan state park-Canyon Overlook Loop, Caliente ghost town, Cathedral Gorge State Park with Moon Caves-Cathedral Caves-Miller Point Trail

Wednesday, September 18, 2024

Car paint protection options

Paint Protection Film (PPF): Expensive. Has an array of brands & types. Ceramic nanoparticle option. Can be for just the front or the entire car.

Ceramic Coating: Multiple layer options. Can be applied on top of PPF.

Composite Coating: Icon Rocklear. Can apply PPF on top of this coating.

Sunday, September 08, 2024

List of California State Parks through library pass

https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=30813

Nonparticipating parks

Angel Island State Park (SP)
Antelope Valley Indian Museum State Historic Park (SHP)
Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland SP
Bodie SHP
California State Mining and Mineral Museum Park Property (PP)
California State Railroad Museum Point of Interest
Cambria State Marine Park (SMP)
Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA)
Castaic Lake State Recreation Area (SRA)
Cayucos State Beach (SB)
Clay Pit SVRA
Corona del Mar SB
Dockweiler SB
Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch SVRA
El Presidio de Santa Barbara SHP
Empire Mine SHP
Fort Tejon SHP
Governor’s Mansion SHP
Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument
Heber Dunes SVRA
Hollister Hills SVRA
Hungry Valley SVRA
Lake Del Valle SRA
Lake Valley SRA
Leland Stanford Mansion SHP
Leucadia SB
Limekiln SP
Los Encinos SHP
Marconi Conference Center SHP
Marsh Creek SHP

Martial Cottle Park SRA
Monterey SHP
Moonlight SB
Oceano Dunes SVRA
Ocotillo Wells SVRA
Pacifica SB
Petaluma Adobe SHP
Pío Pico SHP
Placerita Canyon SP
Point Cabrillo Light Station SHP
Point Dume SB
Point Sur SHP
Prairie City SVRA
Railtown 1897 SHP
Robert W. Crown Memorial SB
San Bruno Mountain SP
Santa Monica SB
Santa Susana Pass SHP
Shasta SHP
Sonoma SHP
State Indian Museum SHP
Sutter Buttes SP
Sutter’s Fort SHP
Tomo-Kahni SHP
Twin Lakes SB
Wassama Round House SHP
Watts Towers of Simon Rodia SHP
Weaverville Joss House SHP
Will Rogers SB
Will Rogers SHP
Woodland Opera House SHP

Participating parks (by county)

POI = Point of Interest
SB = State Beach
SHM = State Historical Monument
SHP = State Historic Park
SMP = State Marine Park
SMR = State Marine Reserve
SNR = State Natural Reserve
SP = State Park
SP SS = State Park State Seashore
SRA = State Recreation Area
SVRA = State Vehicular Recreation Area
WC = Wayside Campground

ALAMEDA

Albany SMR (also in Contra Costa)
Bethany Reservoir SRA
Emeryville Crescent SMR (also in Contra Costa)
McLaughlin Eastshore SP SS (also in Contra Costa)
ALPINE
Grover Hot Springs SP

AMADOR

Indian Grinding Rock SHP

BUTTE

Bidwell Mansion SHP
Bidwell-Sacramento River SP (also in Glenn)
Lake Oroville SRA

CALAVERAS

Calaveras Big Trees SP (also in Tuolumne)

COLUSA

Colusa-Sacramento River SRA

CONTRA COSTA

Albany SMR (also in Alameda)
Emeryville Crescent SMR (also in Alameda)
Franks Tract SRA
McLaughlin Eastshore SP SS (also in Alameda)
Mount Diablo SP

DEL NORTE

Del Norte Coast Redwoods SP
Jedediah Smith Redwoods SP
Pelican SB
Prairie Creek Redwoods SP (also in Humboldt)
Tolowa Dunes SP

EL DORADO

Auburn SRA (also in Placer)
D.L. Bliss SP
Ed Z’berg Sugar Pine Point SP
Emerald Bay SP
Folsom Lake SRA (also in Placer & Sacramento)
Marshall Gold Discovery SHP
Washoe Meadows SP

FRESNO

Millerton Lake SRA (also in Madera)

GLENN

Bidwell-Sacramento River SP (also in Butte)

HUMBOLDT

Azalea SNR
Benbow Lake SRA
Fort Humboldt SHP
Grizzly Creek Redwoods SP
Harry A. Merlo SRA
Humboldt Lagoon SP
Humboldt Redwoods SP
John B. Dewitt Redwoods SNR
Little River SB
Prairie Creek Redwoods SP (also in Del Norte)
Richardson Grove SP
Sinkyone Wilderness SP (also in Mendocino)
Sue-meg SP
Trinidad SB

IMPERIAL

Picacho SRA
Salton Sea SRA (also in Riverside)
Anza-Borrego Desert SP (also in Riverside & San Diego)

KERN

Red Rock Canyon SP
Tule Elk SNR

LAKE

Anderson Marsh SHP
Clear Lake SP
Robert Louis Stevenson SP (also in Napa & Sonoma)

LOS ANGELES

Antelope Valley CA Poppy Reserve SNR
Kenneth Hahn SRA (Baldwin Hills Overlook Only)
Leo Carrillo SP (also in Ventura)
Los Angeles SHP
Malibu Creek SP
Malibu Lagoon SB
Rio de LA State Park SRA
Robert H. Meyer Memorial SB
Saddleback Butte SP
Topanga SP
Verdugo Mountains Park Property

MADERA

Millerton Lake SRA (also in Fresno)

MARIN

China Camp SP
Mount Tamalpais SP
Olompali SHP
Samuel P. Taylor SP
Tomales Bay SP

MENDOCINO

Admiral William Standley SRA
Caspar Headlands SB
Caspar Headlands SNR
Greenwood SB
Hendy Woods SP
Jug Handle SNR
MacKerricher SP
Mailliard Redwoods SNR
Manchester SP
Mendocino Headlands SP
Mendocino Woodlands SP
Montgomery Woods SNR
Navarro River Redwoods SP
Reynolds WC
Russian Gulch SP
Schooner Gulch SB
Sinkyone Wilderness SP (also in Humboldt)
Smithe Redwoods SNR
Standish-Hickey SRA
Van Damme SP
Westport Union Landing SB

MERCED

George J. Hatfield SRA
Great Valley Grasslands SP
McConnell SRA
Pacheco SP (also in Santa Clara)
San Luis Reservoir SRA

MONO

Mono Lake Tufa SNR

MONTEREY

Andrew Molera SP
Asilomar SB
Carmel River SB
Fort Ord Dunes SP
Fremont Peak SP (also in San Benito)
Garrapata SP
Hatton Canyon Park Property
John Little SNR
Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP
Marina SB
Monterey SB
Moss Landing SB
Pfeiffer Big Sur SP
Point Lobos SNR
Salinas River SB (also in Santa Cruz)
Zmudowski SB (also in Santa Cruz)

NAPA

Bale Grist Mill SHP
Robert Louis Stevenson SP (also in Lake & Sonoma)
Sugarloaf Ridge SP (also in Sonoma)
Bothe-Napa Valley SP (also in Sonoma)

NEVADA

Donner Memorial SP (also in Placer)
Malakoff Diggins SHP
South Yuba River SP

ORANGE

Bolsa Chica SB
Chino Hills SP (also in Riverside & San Bernardino)
Crystal Cove SP
Doheny SB
Huntington SB
San Clemente SB
San Onofre SB (also in San Diego)

PLACER

Auburn SRA (also in El Dorado)
Burton Creek SP
Donner Memorial SP (also in Nevada)
Folsom Lake SRA (also in El Dorado & Sacramento)
Kings Beach SRA
Tahoe SRA
Ward Creek Park Property
Burton Creek SP
Donner Memorial SP (also in Nevada)
Folsom Lake SRA (also in El Dorado & Sacramento)
Kings Beach SRA
Tahoe SRA
Ward Creek Park Property

PLUMAS

Plumas-Eureka SP

RIVERSIDE

Anza-Borrego Desert SP (also in Imperial & San Diego)
California Citrus SHP
Chino Hills SP (also in Orange & San Bernardino)
Indio Hills Palms Park Property
Lake Perris SRA
Mount San Jacinto SP
Salton Sea SRA (also in Imperial)
San Timoteo Canyon Park Property
Wildwood Canyon Park Property

SACRAMENTO

Brannan Island SRA
Delta Meadows Park Property
Folsom Lake SRA (also in El Dorado & Placer)
Folsom Powerhouse SHP
Locke Boarding House Museum POI
Stone Lake Park Property

SAN BENITO

Fremont Peak SP (also in Monterey)
San Juan Bautista SHP

SAN BERNARDINO

Chino Hills SP (also in Orange & Riverside)
Providence Mountains SRA
Silverwood Lake SRA

SAN DIEGO

Anza-Borrego Desert SP (also in Riverside & Imperial)
Border Field SP
Cardiff SB
Carlsbad SB
Cuyamaca Rancho SP
Palomar Mountain SP
San Elijo SB
San Onofre SB (also in Orange)
San Pasqual Battlefield SHP
Silver Strand SB
South Carlsbad SB
Tijuana Estuary NP POI
Torrey Pines SB
Torrey Pines SNR

SAN FRANCISCO

Candlestick Point SRA

SAN JOAQUIN

Caswell Memorial SP

SAN LUIS OBISPO

Estero Bluffs SP
Harmony Headlands SP
Hearst San Simeon SP
Los Osos Oaks SNR
Montaña de Oro SP
Morro Bay SP
Morro Strand SB
Pismo SB

SAN MATEO

Año Nuevo SP
Bean Hollow SB
Big Basin Redwoods SP (also in Santa Cruz)
Burleigh H. Murray Ranch Park Property
Butano SP
Gray Whale Cove SB
Half Moon Bay SB
Montara SB
Pescadero SB
Pigeon Point Light Station SHP
Pomponio SB
Portola Redwoods SP
San Gregorio SB
Thornton SB
Castle Rock SP (also in Santa Cruz & Santa Clara)

SANTA BARBARA

Chumash Painted Cave SHP
El Capitán SB
Gaviota SP
La Purísima Mission SHP
Point Sal SB
Refugio SB
Carpinteria SB (also in Ventura)

SANTA CLARA

Henry W. Coe SP (also in Stanislau)
Pacheco SP (also in Merced County)
Castle Rock SP (also in Santa Cruz & San Mateo)

SANTA CRUZ

Big Basin Redwoods SP (also in San Mateo)
Henry Cowell Redwoods SP
Lighthouse Field SB
Manresa SB
Natural Bridges SB
New Brighton SB
Salinas River SB (also in Monterey)
Santa Cruz Mission SHP
Seacliff SB
Sunset SB
The Forest of Nisene Marks SP
Wilder Ranch SP
Zmudowski SB (also in Monterey)
Castle Rock SP (also in San Mateo & Santa Clara)

SHASTA

Ahjumawi Lava Springs SP
Castle Crags SP
McArthur Burney Falls SP

SOLANO

Benicia SRA
Benicia Capitol SHP

SONOMA

Armstrong Redwoods SNR
Austin Creek SRA
Fort Ross SHP
Jack London SHP
Kruse Rhododendron SNR
Robert Louis Stevenson SP (also in Lake & Napa)
Salt Point SP
Sonoma Coast SP
Sugarloaf Ridge SP (also in Napa)
Trione-Annadel SP
Bothe-Napa Valley SP (also in Napa)

STANISLAUS

Henry W. Coe SP (also in Santa Clara)
Turlock Lake SRA

TEHAMA

William B. Ide Adobe SHP
Woodson Bridge SRA

TULARE

Colonel Allensworth SHP

TUOLUMNE

Columbia SHP
Calaveras Big Trees SP (also in Calaveras)

VENTURA

Carpinteria SB (also in Santa Barbara)
Emma Wood SB
Leo Carrillo SP (also in Los Angeles)
Mandalay SB
McGrath SB
Point Mugu SP
San Buenaventura SB

Monday, August 12, 2024

Mid-size cruelty-free automobile options

Tesla Model Y

Vegan seating

Hyundai

Ioniq 5 & 6 have leather wrapped wheel

Sonata SEL AWD

Vehicle & Powertrain Coverage

Powertrain Warranty

10-Year / 100,000-Mile

Powertrain Limited Warranty

New Vehicle Warranty

5-Year / 60,000-Mile

New Vehicle Limited Warranty

Anti Perforation Warranty

7-Year / Unlimited Miles

Anti-Perforation Warranty

24 Hour Roadside Assistance

5-Year / Unlimited Miles

24-Hour Roadside Assistance

Parts, Accessories and Emissions Coverage

Warranty Replacement and Parts

12-Month / 12,000-Mile

Replacement Parts and Accessories Limited Warranty

Federal Emission Defect Warranty

8-Year / 80,000-Mile

Federal Emission Defect and Performance Warranty

CA Emissions Control Warranty

7-Year / 70,000-Mile

California Emissions Control Systems Warranty

Electric and Hybrid Powertrain Coverage

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Hybrid System & Components Warranty

10-Year / 100,000-Mile

Hybrid/EV Battery Warranty

Hyundai Nexo 2023 has leather wrapped wheel

Hyundai Sonata SEL without the convenience package doesn't have leather

Kia

Kia Sorento: Large and capable, the three rows of seating in the Kia Sorento provide space, while the AWD system provides safety.

Kia K5: The luxurious K5’s upper trim levels are AWD-equipped.

Vehicle & Powertrain Coverage

Powertrain Warranty

10-Year / 100,000-Mile

Powertrain Limited Warranty

New Vehicle Warranty

5-Year / 60,000-Mile

New Vehicle Limited Warranty

Anti Perforation Warranty

7-Year / Unlimited Miles

Anti-Perforation Warranty

24 Hour Roadside Assistance

5-Year / Unlimited Miles

24-Hour Roadside Assistance

Parts, Accessories and Emissions Coverage

Warranty Replacement and Parts

12-Month / 12,000-Mile

Replacement Parts and Accessories Limited Warranty

Federal Emission Defect Warranty

8-Year / 80,000-Mile

Federal Emission Defect and Performance Warranty

CA Emissions Control Warranty

7-Year / 70,000-Mile

California Emissions Control Systems Warranty

Electric and Hybrid Powertrain Coverage

image test

Hybrid System & Components Warranty

10-Year / 100,000-Mile

Hybrid/EV Battery Warranty

Toyota

2025 Camry LE doesn't have leather. SE, XSE, XLE have leather.

2024 Mirai doesn't have leather.

Camry AWD

Prius AWD

Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles

Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles

Hybrid components are covered for eight years or 100,000 miles

Complimentary maintenance is covered for two years or 25,000 miles

Mitsubishi

Cross ES, LE, Ralliart, Black have fabric. Others have leather.

Outlander: has leather

2-Year/30,000-Mile Limited Maintenance (3 Oil & Filter Changes, 3 Tire Rotations and 1 Cabin Filter)

10-Year/100,000-Mile Powertrain Limited Warranty

5-Year/Unlimited-Mile Roadside Assistance

Mazda

CX-50

3-year/36,000-mile1 New-Vehicle Limited Warranty

5-year/60,000-mile1 Powertrain Limited Warranty

3-year/36,000-mile1 24/7 Roadside Assistance Program

	Powertrain Limited Warranty	New Vehicle Limited Warranty	Anti-Perforation Warranty
Hyundai	10-Year / 100,000-Mile	5-Year / 60,000-Mile	7-Year / Unlimited
Toyota	5-Year / 60,000-Mile	3-Year / 36,000-Mile	5-Year / Unlimited
Honda	5-Year / 60,000-Mile	3-Year / 36,000-Mile	5-Year / Unlimited
Nissan	5-Year / 60,000-Mile	3-Year / 36,000-Mile	5-Year / Unlimited
Chevrolet	5-Year / 60,000-Mile	3-Year / 36,000-Mile	6-Year / 100,000-Mile
Lexus	6-Year / 70,000-Mile	4-Year / 50,000-Mile	6-Year / Unlimited

Thursday, July 04, 2024

Chennai - Anbil - Tapovanam options

In Tapovanam, Tulabaram is available only from 10-10:45 AM. Crowded on weekends & can take more time. Be there by 9:30 AM. Puja will end by 10-10:15, after which Tulabaram can be done. Call ahead with the approximate weight, so that they have the approximate weighing scale. They offer Rice (Arisi), Sugar (Sakkarai), Vellam (Jaggery).

Minimal 1

Day 1: Chennai to Trichy, Kumbakonam, Thajavur or Srirangam. Stay.

Day 2: Anbil, drive to Tapovanam. Stay. Sights en-route or detour to Koothanur.

Day 3: Pada Puja & Tulabaram. Drive back.

Minimal 2

Day 1: Chennai to Tapovanam. Stay.

Day 2: Pada Puja & Tulabaram. Drive to Anbil. Darshanam in the evening. Stay.

Day 3: Drive back. Sights en-route or detour to Koothanur.

Minimal 3

Day 1: Chennai to Srirangam. Stay.

Day 2: Anbil Darshanam in the morning. Koothanur Darshanam in the evening. Stay in Vaitheeshwaran Kovil.

Day 3: Drive to Thapovanam.

Day 4: Pada Puja & Tulabaram. Back to Chennai.

Minimal 4

Day 1: Drive to Koothanur. Stay in Kumbakonam.

Day 2: Wake up early. Drive to Anbil. Darshanam. Drive to Thapovanam.

Day 3: Pada Puja & Tulabaram. Drive back.

Minimal 5

Day 1: Chennai to Tapovanam. Stay.

Day 2: Pada Puja & Tulabaram. Drive to Srirangam. Stay.

Day 3: Drive to Anbil. Darshanam. Drive to Koothanur in the evening. Darshanam. Drive back. Arrive late night.

Minimal 6

Day 1 (Sat): Chennai to Thiruvarangam Perumal Kovil (open whole day). To Thapovanam, check in to Ashramam. Visit Thirukkovilur in the evening: Veerataneshwarar Shivan, Ulagalantha Perumal. Visit Siddhalinga Matam. Back to Thapovanam. ~ 260 km

Day 2 (Sun): Pada Puja & Tulabaram. Drive to Srirangam. If time permits, Srirangam Kovil, Thiruvanaikkaval Kovil. Stay. ~200 km

Day 3 (Mon): Anbil Darshanam in the morning. Koothanur Darshanam in the evening. Thirunallar Darshanam. Stay. ~170 km

Day 4 (Tue): Back to Chennai. Possible visit to Thiruvengadu and/or Pichavaram. ~300 km

East Coast & Eastern Ghats drive: 1 month

East Coast north to south:

Day 1: Chennai to Vandalur zoo, Muttukadu boat house (water sports), crocodile bank. Stay in Mahabalipuram.

Day 2: Drive to Vedanthangal bird sanctuary, Mudaliar Kuppam: water sports, Pondicherry (Puducherry).

Day 3: Pondicherry: Chunnambar boat house (water sports), Paradise beach (ATV ride, fish spa, water sorbing, bungy trampoline, gyro ride, Canoeing, Kayaking, Swimming, Jet Skiing, surfing)

Day 4: Pondicherry: Ousteri Lake / Ossudu Lake wetland national park (boating), Auroville, Arikamedu (historical), Karaneshwara Nataraja pyramid temple, botanical gardens

Day 5: Drive to Chidambaram kovil, Pichavaram mangrove forest boat ride, Vedaranyam kovil, Point Calimere (Kodikkarai) wildlife sanctuary jeep safari (can get to interior with warden's permission_ or drive through, Chozha light house. Stay

Day 6: Muthupet boat ride in lagoon, till Point Calimere, Thondiyakaadu wildlife sanctuary, Udayamarthandapuram Birds Sanctuary (Ramsar site, needs permission), Voimedu wildlife park. Stay

Day 7: Drive to Thiruvarur temple, Koothanur temple. Stay in Kumbakonam or Thanjavur.

Day 8: Anbil Darshanam. Trichy butterfly park (largest in Asia), 37 feet Sanjeevana Anjaneyar, Kalanai, Sittanavasal Jain caves. Stay in Trichy.

Eastern Ghats south to north:

Day 9: Pachai malai

Day 10: Puliancholai, Kolli Malai

Day 11: Jarugumalai, Salem (tallest Murugan vigraham), stay in Salem

Day 12: Yercaud sky park (roller coaster ziplining, rope course, glass sky walk, sky surfing, sky cycling, aviary, night park, laser show, mystery tunnel, trampoline, aquarium)

Day 13: Yercaud Grange Tree Top adventure park (ATV, zipline, rope course, water bike, archery, shooting, tree climbing, Lake crossing, kayaking, water roller zurfing, trampoline, 4x4 offroading, coffee plantation, mechanical bull riding, tent camping)

Day 14: Yercaud

Day 15: Shevaroy hills

Day 16: Hogenakkal water falls

Day 17: Kalvarayan hills

Day 18: Yelagiri Xtreme Adventures (Zipline , bungee jumping, sling shot, ATV ride 250cc, shooting, archery, water zorbing, human slingshot)

Day 19: Yelagiri Cloud forest park & zoo (animals, birds that sit on our hands & drink from hands, feed rabbits, birds, chicks, bamboo walk, butterfly garden, archery, golf etc)

Day 20: Yelagiri Wild Zone (zurfing, human slingshot, zipline, atv, rope walk, archery, paint gun, ATB biking)

Day 21: Yelagiri Thrill valley (zipline, human sling shot, paintball shooting, atv, rope course)

Day 22: Yelagiri Mountain View adventure park (Zipline, Paintball, ATV, Bunjee Ejection, Giant Swing, Trekking to waterfall)

Day 23: Yelagiri Cuckoo birds park, other attractions

Day 24: Jawadhu hills

Day 25: Sathanur dam & crocodile park, Tapovanam Stay

Day 26: Tapovanam Pada Puja & Tulabaram, Tiruvannamalai, Vellore Stay

Day 27: Vellore fort, golden temple, Armamalai cave. Kanchipuram. Drive back to Chennai

Monday, July 01, 2024

Navagraha Shiva temples

Mangadu Valleeshwarar: Shukran. Shukran's Dasha Bukthi is 20 years, the longest

Poichallur near Pallavaram, Pammal: Agastheeswarar: Shani. Shani Dasha Bukthi lasts 19 years.

Vada Thirunageswaram near Kundrathur. Rahu. Rahu Dasha Bukthi lasts 18 years

Kovur Sundareshwarar: Budhan: Budhan Dasha lasts 17 years.

Paikada near Porur Ramanathswamy Swami, Sivakami Sundari: Guru. Guru Dasha lasts 16 years.

Kundrathur: Kailasanathar: Chandran. Chandra Dasha lasts 10 years.

Gerugambakkam Naganathar Swami: Kethu. Kathu Dasha lasts 7 years.

Poonthamalli Vaitheeshwaran with Chevvai Padam, Thaiyilnakayki: Chevvai (Mars). Chevvai Dasha lasts 7 year.s

Kolappakkam Agastheeshwarar: Suryan: Surya Dasha lasts 6 years.

Sunday, June 16, 2024

Pune pilgrimage

Outstation trips from Pune:

Pandharpur Panduranga Vithoba Vittala: Book darshan ticket online for lesser time in queue

Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga

Trishunda Ganapati with 3 trunks

Shirdi Sai

Triyambakeshwar Jyotirlinga

Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga

Mahabaleshwar temple: Shiva Linga in the form of a Rudraksha

Alandi Vitthal temple, Dhyaneshwar birthplace

Bhuleshwar temple, Vigneshwari

Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga

Neelkhanteshwar temple

Ekvira Devi temple

Narayani Dham temple, Lonavala

Wagheshwar temple

Kondana caves

Bhaja caves

Badami fort

Jejuri Khandoba

Shani Shingnapur

Tuljapur Bhavani Shakti Peetha

Audha Nagnath Jyotirlinga

Naldurg fort

Malshiras Siddheshwar Shiva temple

Akkalkuva Dutta Dattatreya temple

CERUS Appaswamy clubhouse timings

Swimming pool:

7-11 AM all days

4-7:30 PM weekends

Gym:

5 AM - noon

4 PM - 10 PM

Saturday, June 08, 2024

Hyderabad travel ideas

Indoor sky diving

Planetarium, Birla science center, Dinosarium

KBR national park

Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park

Mrugavani National Park

Parasailing

Paramotoring

Paragliding

Ziplining, District Gravity, Adventure Park

Paintball

Boating, multiple lakes

Kayaking, Kotepally reservoir

Jet ski

Escape room

Surfing, Flow rider, Leonia resort with instructors

Scuba diving

Indoor rock climbing, Crag studio

Ramoji city

Wild waters theme park

Wonderla

Jalavihar

Snow world

Ocean Park

Escape water park

Mount Opera

Srinidhi Joy n Joy theme park

Flipside park with ziplining

Pride Resorts water park

Krazi Chiks theme park

Thrill City theme park

Horse riding

South Saraswati Tour

Koothanur Saraswati, worshipped by Ottakoothar

Padmanabhapuram Saraswati, worshipped by Kambar, given to the Chera Raja on his request. After the Cheras shifted their capital from Padmanabhapuram to Thiruvananthapuram, during Navaratri, she is taken on a royal procession to Thiruvananthapuram, worshipped & returned for 9 days. The total ritual including the traveling takes 12 days. She is accompanied by Munnuti Nangai Durga of Sucheendram who is taken to Padmanabhapuram, then to Thiruvananthapuram. The Devis are escorted by Skanda Murugan, a gift from Velu Thampi Dalavai.

Sringeri Sharadha Ambal

Chennai travel ideas

Planetarium

Guindy national park

Parasailing, Marina beach

Paramotoring or Paragliding, Marina beach

Ziplining, Pallavaram forest

Boating, Pulicat lake

Muthukadu beach (Kayaking, Jet ski, boat ride)

Escape room

Surfing in Covelong beach

Scuba diving, Chennai ECR (certification & night diving)

Indoor rock climbing, Fit Rock Arena, Pallikaranai

VGP Golden Beach

Snow world

MGM Dizzee world

Bowling

Paintball

Horse riding

Turtle egg laying & hatching

Chennai Anbil en-route ideas

The East Coast drive

Chennai

Vandalur Zoo

Crocodile bank

Vedanthangal Bird sanctuary

Mahabalipuram

Puducherry

Chidambaram

Pichavaram mangroves

Thiruvarur

Point Calimere Bird sanctuary

Muthupet mangroves

Anbil

Eastern Ghats drive

Anbil

Pachai Malai (Koriayar, Mangalam, Mayil Uthu waterfalls, Sweata Kallar rivers, Jackfruit cultivation, hiking paths, medicinal gardens)

Kolli Malai (Puliancholai Aruvi, Agaya Gangai waterfall: 1196 steps, Pambati Siddhar guha, Arapaleshwara kovil, Gangai Panchanadi kadu, Muthugapatti Periyarswamy Kovil, Tampcol medicinal farm, botanical garden, Vasalurpatty boat house)

Jarugumalai (no tourism facilities, hike, wildlife)

Salem (tallest Murugan vigraham)

Yercaud

Shevaroy hills

Hogenakkal water falls

Kalvarayan hills (Gomukhi dam, Megam falls, Periyar falls, botanical garden)

Yelagiri

Jawadhu hills (waterfalls, Vaina Bappu Planet observatory Sat 7 PM)

Sathanur dam & crocodile park

Thiruvannamalai

Vellore (Golden temple)

Chennai

Western Ghats drive

Anbil

Sirumalai (Kullursandai, Suruli, Muthirapuzha, Meghamalai, Silver cascade Aruvi, zip lining, rock climbing, rapelling, Karaiyar dam, Siddhar guha, bird watching, Murugam kovil, Sirumalai lake, observation tower, sanjeevani hills, Saathiyar basin, Vellimalai Murugam, Agastya Puram, Silver Hill 500 year old Shiva Lingam)

Megamalai

Srivilliputhur wildlife sactuary

Periyar national park

Thekkady

Idukki wildlike sanctuary

Cardamom hills

Munnar

Eravikulam national park

Anamudi

Chinnar wildlife sanctuary

Kurinjimala sanctuary

Aanamalai wildlife sanctuary

Valparai

Pazhani

Kodaikanal

Chennai

Trichy city exploration

37 feet vishwaroopa Sanjeevana Anjaneyar

Kalanai dam (Boating, walking, birdwatching)

Mukkombu dam

Asia's biggest Butterfly park, Trichy

Railway museum, Trichy

Science center & planetarium, Trichy

Gunaseelam Kovil

Ranjankudi fort

Wonder World theme park, Thanjavur

Thirumayam or Pudukkotai fort

Sittanavasal

Viralimalai Murugan

Sunday, May 12, 2024

Hiking & Climbing in Castle Rock State Park

Discover the Natural Beauty of Castle Rock State Park

Located in the heart of California, Castle Rock State Park is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. With its stunning rock formations, rolling hills, and scenic trails, this park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Getting There and Parking

Before you head out, be sure to pick up a California State Library Parks Pass from your local library, which grants you free parking within the park. Alternatively, you can park in one of the free parking spots along the route, but be aware that these can fill up quickly.

Saratoga Gap and Ride Trail Loop

The Saratoga Gap and Ride Trail Loop is a popular route that offers a shorter switchback option for those looking for a more leisurely hike. The trail is rolling and wooded, providing a consistent moderate workout. With occasional scrambling over boulders, it's an exciting adventure for kids. During the spring season, you can catch a glimpse of Castle Rock Falls from the top, and you might even spot rock climbers in action. Additionally, the park's scenic trails follow a flowing creek, which is a treat to hike alongside in the spring when the water is at its peak.

Rock Climbing Adventures

Castle Rock State Park is an excellent spot for beginners to learn outdoor rock climbing on Goat Rock with a professional guide. Just remember to free your hands when coming down, as I learned the hard way on my first climb! With its unique rock formations, including boulders with holes that resemble Swiss cheese, this park offers breathtaking mountain views and an unforgettable experience.

Conclusion

Castle Rock State Park is a nature lover's paradise, offering a range of outdoor activities and stunning scenery. With its convenient location and free parking options, it's an ideal destination for a day trip or a longer adventure. So why wait? Lace up your hiking boots, grab your gear, and discover the natural beauty of Castle Rock State Park!

Highlights:

Scenic trails with rolling hills and wooded areas

Stunning rock formations and boulders

Flowing creek in the spring season

Castle Rock Falls visible from the top in the spring

Rock climbing opportunities for beginners

Breathtaking mountain views

Free parking options with a California State Library Parks Pass

Convenient location for day trips or longer adventures

Spring waterfalls in Uvas Canyon county park

Discover the Natural Beauty of Uvas Canyon County Park

Located in Morgan Hill, Santa Clara County, Uvas Canyon County Park is a hidden gem that offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. This stunning park is a must-visit destination, especially during the spring season, when the waterfalls are in full bloom.

Scenic Drive and Reservations

The park is accessible via a scenic drive, which winds through lush green mountains and offers breathtaking views. To ensure a smooth visit, reservations are required, which can be made through [(link unavailable)]((link unavailable)). For just $6, you can secure a one-hour time slot to drive into the park.

Popular Waterfall Loop Trail

The park's crown jewel is the popular Waterfall Loop Trail, which takes you on a mesmerizing journey to witness multiple waterfalls along Swanson Creek. While the loop is currently closed due to maintenance, the park offers an alternative route that still provides access to the stunning waterfalls. Be sure to explore the trail to the lower falls, which boasts a majestic waterfall that's perfect for a family outing. At the bottom of the lower falls, you'll find a delightful spot where kids can have fun playing in the creek, but be sure to exercise caution.

Wooded Landscape and Spring Delights

Uvas Canyon County Park is mostly wooded, providing a peaceful and shaded atmosphere that's perfect for a day trip. In the spring, the park comes alive with vibrant wildflowers and lush greenery, making it a nature lover's paradise.

Spring: The Best Time to Visit

While Uvas Canyon County Park is beautiful year-round, spring is undoubtedly the best time to visit. The rainfalls bring the waterfalls to life, creating a breathtaking spectacle that's not to be missed. The lush greenery and vibrant wildflowers add to the park's natural charm, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

A Regular Spring Outing

For those living in the Bay Area, Uvas Canyon County Park has become a regular spring outing. Its proximity and natural beauty make it an ideal spot for a day trip or a quick escape from the city. So, pack a picnic, grab your hiking boots, and get ready to experience the serenity of nature at its best.

In Conclusion

Uvas Canyon County Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty, waiting to be explored. With its stunning waterfalls, scenic drives, and lush greenery, it's a must-visit destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. So, make your reservations, grab your camera, and get ready to experience the beauty of nature at its best.

Unique Pink water at Alviso Marina county park

Discover the Natural Wonder of Alviso Marina County Park: A Fun and Educational Destination for Families

Are you looking for a unique and exciting outdoor adventure to enjoy with your kids? Look no further than Alviso Marina County Park, a hidden gem in the heart of the San Francisco Bay Area. This stunning park offers a one-of-a-kind experience that will delight both kids and adults alike.

The Pink Water Phenomenon

The main attraction at Alviso Marina County Park is the striking pink water, which has been drawing crowds from all over. The park's sloughs and waterways are home to a special combination of bacteria, salt, and algae that give the water its distinctive pink hue. This natural wonder is a sight to behold, and kids will be fascinated by the unusual color.

Explore the Alviso Slough Trail

The Alviso Slough Trail is a flat, easy-to-navigate path that surrounds the pink water and takes you through the beautiful Don Edwards National Wildlife Refuge. The trail is perfect for families with strollers or little legs, and offers stunning views of the surrounding wetlands and wildlife. Keep an eye out for birds, animals, and the tall grassy plantations that line the trail.

A Pleasant Oasis on Hot Days

On warmer days, Alviso Marina County Park is a welcome oasis, with a pleasant temperature that's lower than the surrounding areas due to the cool breeze. This makes it an ideal destination for families looking to escape the heat and enjoy some fresh air and exercise.

An Educational Experience

Alviso Marina County Park is not just a fun destination, but also an educational one. The park features informative boards that explain the history and science behind the pink water, including the role of bacteria, salt, and algae. Kids can learn about the unique ecosystem and how it supports a diverse range of wildlife.

Free Parking and Open till Sunset

The best part? Parking is free, and the park is open till sunset, giving you plenty of time to explore and enjoy the surroundings.

In conclusion, Alviso Marina County Park is a must-visit destination for families looking for a fun and educational outdoor adventure. With its stunning pink water, easy-to-navigate trail, and pleasant atmosphere, it's the perfect place to spend a day with your kids. So pack a picnic, grab your sunscreen, and head to Alviso Marina County Park for an unforgettable experience!