Some recent hikes – The Adventures of Nick and Pam

Since moving to California, Nick and I have instituted a policy of doing something active every weekend. The weather is so gorgeous and there are so many hikes and bike rides around here that there’s no reason for us to not get outside and enjoy it. I also really value the time spent with him when I am not worrying about what needs to get done around the house or what’s on my to-do list or what will be waiting for me at work on Monday. It’s just us, and nature, and usually no cell phone service, and great conversations to go along with the beautiful views.

Nick also goes for hikes usually once every week with our friend Leah (who also moved here from Ottawa and also has a blog about it!), so some of these photos are from those adventures too.

(Click the title to see more details about the hike)

Coyote Peak Loop at Santa Teresa County Park
This was our most recent hike – a fairly easy 4 mile loop with about 600 feet of elevation. Great views from Coyote Peak itself!

These deer were super close to the side of the road as we drove into the park!

The valley - click for bigger version — The valley – click for bigger version

Pigeon Gap Trail at Alum Rock Park
4.7 miles and about 500 feet of elevation – this was a nice hike, about the right length for a Sunday, and we had fun picking up chestnuts and throwing them down the hills.

...I want a baby mountain lion! — …I want a baby mountain lion!

They're serious about mountain lions here! — They’re serious about mountain lions here!

Looking up - each fence is a switchback — Looking up – each fence is a switchback

These stone steps lead down to an old hot spring bath.

Mount Hamilton Hike
This is a hike Nick did with Leah, so I don’t have a map sadly, but here are some awesome pics.

Lick Observatory on top of the hill - one of Nick's favourite drives. — Lick Observatory on top of the hill – one of Nick’s favourite drives.