From wine to bristlecone pines

Eastern Sierra dogs. Photo by Visit Mammoth Lakes.

There are many ways to get to the High Sierra, all of them scenic, some a little more leisurely and winding than others. If time permits and you like lots of diversion on a road trip, follow the Golden Chain Highway (aka Highway 49) south through Amador, Calaveras, Tuolumne and Mariposa counties before cutting east through Yosemite National Park and taking Highway 20 (the Tioga Road) up and over 9,943-foot Tioga Pass. Read more.

Swooning for wildflowers

One of the most prolific wildflower shows in California blooms in early July at Carson Pass on Highway 88, about a half-hour south of Lake Tahoe. We’re talking head-high stands of violet lupin, bright red paintbrush and Queen Anne’s lace, flanked by blankets of purple penstemon, golden mule ears, orange columbine and mountain daisies. Go midweek and go early to snag a parking spot at the Carson Pass Information Station, gateway to this floral wonderland. Read more.

Camping, sunset style

Like many of us who read Sunset, you are most likely inspired and somewhat intimidated by those oh-so-perfect homes, gardens and recipes showcased on the magazine’s glossy pages and online. Could we do that? Well, maybe some of it. But when it comes to camping, we can all (including canines that relish an extended outing) learn a thing or two from “Camp Sunset: A Modern Camper’s Guide to the Great Outdoors.” Read more.

Mariposa county (west/arch rock) entrance

While visiting Yosemite National Park might be the goal, a trip through the region is also about the journey. It would be a shame to arrive at the park’s Highway 140 (El Portal) entrance without having paused to explore Mariposa County along the way. Start in the town of Mariposa, the historic county seat, with breakfast at Jantz Bakery or lunch at the delightful Deli Garden Café. Read more.

Thanksgiving and giving to our pets

Photo Credit: Elevated (CC) By Dr. Angela Gaeto, DVM, of the Helen Woodward Animal Center community in San Diego County. Every year, especially at Thanksgiving and Christmas, there is a large spike in pets that come to see the veterinarian because of diarrhea, vomiting and/or pancreatitis. Read more.