Personal

Williamson Rock Area and Pacific Crest Trail Segment Closed on Angeles National Forest

Posted on by Shawn E. Bell

If you’re a hiker or equestrian who travels the Pacific Crest Trail through the Angeles National Forest, here’s something you need to know before you lace up your boots. A section of the PCT and the Williamson Rock area are under a temporary closure order.

The Forest Service has closed the Williamson Rock area and a stretch of the PCT running from its intersection with Angeles Crest Highway (State Highway 2) down to its intersection with the Burkhart Trail. The closure runs through December 31, 2026, and it’s all about protecting one of California’s most imperiled amphibians: the mountain yellow-legged frog. Continue reading →

California, National Parks

Exploring California’s Rich Bounty of National Parks

Posted on by Shawn E. Bell

California boasts a remarkable distinction among the states of the U.S. It’s not just the golden beaches, towering redwoods, or sprawling deserts that make it a treasure trove of natural wonders. With nine national parks within its borders, California holds the crown for having the most national parks of any state in the nation:

Channel Islands National Park: Located off the coast of Southern California, Channel Islands National Park is an archipelago of five rugged islands renowned for their untouched natural beauty and abundant marine life. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, kayaking, and snorkeling. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and clearer waters, making them ideal times to explore the park. Continue reading →

California, Off Roading, OHV

Invitation to Participate: Review and Comment on the Coyote Flat OHV Draft Environmental Assessment from May 18 to June 17

Posted on by Shawn E. Bell

The Inyo National Forest has announced the release of the Draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Coyote Flat Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Recreation Enhancement Project.

A 30-day public comment period is open from May 18 to June 17, 2024. To access the EA, go HERE and navigate to the “Project Documents” Box folder widget. Follow the instructions to access the “EA Comment Period” folder to access the EA document.

The proposed action is a step towards addressing motorized trail management and safety concerns in the Coyote Flat area. It’s a chance to address sustainable recreation opportunities for various user groups and OHV green sticker vehicles. This aligns with the goals and objectives outlined in the Forest’s 2019 Land Management Plan, offering a hopeful future for the area.

Continue reading →

Personal

Planning to Camp? Know the Stay Limits on Angeles National Forest

Posted on by Shawn E. Bell

If you’re like me, dispersed camping is one of the best parts of exploring the backcountry — find a quiet spot off the beaten path, set up camp, and enjoy some real solitude under the stars. But if you’re planning extended stays in the Angeles National Forest, there are some stay-limit rules worth knowing before you head out.

The Angeles National Forest and San Gabriel Mountains National Monument have put stay limits in place for camping, effective now through December 15, 2026. Here’s the breakdown: Continue reading →

Inspiration, Questions and Answers, Writing

Question: When a writer presents their manuscript to an editor or a publisher, what prevents them from just stealing the work and publishing the book under their own names?

Posted on by Shawn E. Bell

Answer: Professionalism. An editor or publisher will only ever get one chance to “steal” someone’s work. After that they’re out of business, sued into oblivion, and Chernobyl when it comes to ever being employable ever again. The only writer who is worried about an editor or publisher stealing their manuscript is the noob who doesn’t understand that their work isn’t worth stealing. The amateur. The wannabe too scared to break in who is looking for a reason – any reason – to ensure they remain anonymous and unpublished.

Continue reading →