Nemophila Harmony 2019 ネモフィラ ハーモニー2019 - Hitachi Seaside Park, Japan

Wow, it’s all blue! This is one of the most spectacular spring flowers you can see in Japan. Nemophila (Baby blue eyes) Harmony festival is happening in Hitachi Seaside Park ひたち海浜公園, Ibaraki Prefecture. Over 4.5 million blue Nemophila flowers are in full swing on Miharashi Hills みはらしの丘 offering breathtaking vistas in harmony....the flowers, blue sky and the ocean. Amazing! 👍👍 

For Nemophila Harmony info: https://hitachikaihin.jp/en.html

Video by Lifeisamt

Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout Via PCT 7/7/2017 - Pacific Crest Trail, Sierra City, CA

July 7, 2017

 

Hiking up Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout is an epic journey with amazing views from the top as you climb the steep stairs to reach the lookout. The Fire Lookout stands on top of one of the craggy buttes at 8,587 feet. Sweeping vistas in all directions are no doubt WOW! Sardine Lakes, peaks of Tahoe/Desolation Wilderness and as far as Mt. Lassen (100 miles away!) are seen along with nearby mountains like Haskell Peak.

The hike is 2.5 miles/1,800' gain one way via PCT while there are other longer routes to the lookout via Tamarack Lakes and Sierra City. As of July 7, 2017, there are some snow fields on trail, but they are short, not difficult to cross and probably will melt away in a week or two. Stay on track as the trail disappears here and there under the snow. Wildflowers are blooming and beautiful, but may not last that long as the summer's heat continues.

The lookout was built in 1915, one of many in the greater Tahoe region. The stairs to the lookout was constructed by five Tahoe National Forest employees in the summer of 1964 to make it possible for visitors to climb to the lookout with ease and safety.

For a side trip, you can drive to Sardine Lake Resort at Lower Sardine Lake for a breathtaking view of Sierra Buttes rising above the lake. Also, another option would be to drive a short distance to Frazier Falls near Gold Lake. A paved trail (1/2 mile one way) takes you to the beautiful waterfalls.

 

 

Video by Lifeisamt

Bernal Heights Park - Best view of San Francisco

June 18, 2017

 

Want the best view of San Francisco? Ditch the crowd at Golden Gate Park and Twin Peaks! Bernal Heights offers spectacular vantage points for the best views of SF...."wow" moments no doubt. The hike to Bernal Heights is short and easy. For the views, choose a clear day. Bernal Heights may be a hidden gem for viewing July 4th fireworks.

 

  Video by Lifeisamt

Runyon Canyon Park - Los Angeles, CA

April 14, 2017

It's hard to believe? Runyon Canyon Park is located right by Hollywood! It's a great place for workout and short hikes to explore nature. It also offers a dog park, so pet friendly environment. Trails are moderately steep, and some are very steep, but short. You can choose paved or dirt trails, and also loop or through hike. Like Griffith Park, this is a very popular park among walkers and runners. So, you won't be alone on the trail.

There are a few different entrances depending on where you want to start....from Fuller Ave or Vista St on Hollywood side, or from Mulholland Dr on the north side of the park. West Ridge trail is the steepest and East Ridge is moderately steep. You can loop around both ridges or hike the paved route which runs through between the two ridges.

Views along the trails, Vista points/Inspiration Point and from Indian Rock which is the highest point of the park are spectacular....Hollywood sign, Griffith Park and overlooking Hollywood, DTLA and as far as Parlos Verdes, Santa Monica Mountains and Pacific Ocean to the south as well as San Gabriel mountains and beyond to the north.

Outdoor Yoga class is offered in the park. Parking can be tough as you have to park on the street. Read the sign before you park!

Video by Lifeisamt