Mary West

Lake of the Pines

Contributor at The Union

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Articles

Day hiker: Indian Creek Trail - A hidden gem near Yankee Jims Bridge

6 days ago | theunion.com | Mary West

A perfect spot for swimming and picnickingAt Indian Creek, you’ll find shady areas and large rocks—ideal for lounging between swims or while enjoying a picnic. During blackberry season, you’ll be treated to an added snack as the vines burst with ripe fruit. The views of the North Fork, deep in the canyon surrounded by forest-covered hills, are as picturesque as it gets.
Day Hiker: Brockway Summit Trail - A Journey Along the Tahoe Rim Trail

1 week ago | mtdemocrat.com | Mary West

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Day Hiker: Windy Point Trail - A spring celebration in Colfax

2 weeks ago | theunion.com | Mary West

Three years ago, teacher, author, and outdoor enthusiast Eric Peach first introduced me to the Windy Point Trail in Colfax. It’s a trail that feels like a celebration of spring and renewal, with poppies covering the hillside, the American River flowing below, and canyon views that captivate your gaze. Have you hiked Windy Point Trail before? Share your photos and stories using #DayHikerCA!A feast for the sensesThis trail is more than just about the poppies.
Day Hiker: Table Mountain - A Springtime Floral Spectacle

3 weeks ago | mtdemocrat.com | Mary West

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Day hiker: Brockway Summit Trail - A journey along the Tahoe Rim Trail

1 month ago | theunion.com | Mary West

Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading. If 20 miles sounds like more than you’re up for, consider a shorter option: a pleasant 1.5-mile trek up to Picnic Rock. This three-mile round trip starts at the parking area across Highway 267 near Kings Beach. The trail is moderately challenging as it winds up to the peak, offering a steady climb through a series of switchbacks.
Day Hiker: Buttermilk Bend Trail - A Wildflower Wonderland Along the Yuba River

1 month ago | mtdemocrat.com | Mary West

Hike the Buttermilk Bend Trail in early spring when you’ll find yourself dodging butterflies as they dance through the air. Take in the sweeping views of the Yuba River, but don’t forget to appreciate the variety of wildflowers blooming at your feet. The rock benches and well-maintained trail provide perfect spots to pause and enjoy the scenery. While the parking area may be crowded, and you’ll likely share the trail with many others, the experience is worth it.
Day hiker: Table Mountain - A springtime floral spectacle

1 month ago | theunion.com | Mary West

Plan your visit to Table Mountain Preserve this spring—you’ll have to see it to believe it. Known for its spectacular wildflower displays, the preserve comes alive as poppies, lupines, paintbrush, and dozens of other flowers bloom across its rolling hills. While Easter weekend is popular, any time the flowers are in bloom is well worth the drive to Oroville in Butte County. Have you visited Table Mountain before?
Day hiker: Buttermilk Bend Trail - A wildflower wonderland along the Yuba River

2 months ago | theunion.com | Mary West

Hike the Buttermilk Bend Trail in early spring when you’ll find yourself dodging butterflies as they dance through the air. Take in the sweeping views of the Yuba River, but don’t forget to appreciate the variety of wildflowers blooming at your feet. The rock benches and well-maintained trail provide perfect spots to pause and enjoy the scenery. While the parking area may be crowded, and you’ll likely share the trail with many others, the experience is worth it.
Day Hiker: Avery’s Pond - A Tranquil Retreat in Folsom State Recreation Area

2 months ago | mtdemocrat.com | Mary West

Discover the Serenity of Avery’s Pond and Its Surrounding TrailsThe heavy rains this spring have transformed Avery’s Pond in the Folsom State Recreation Area into a deep, serene pool. I love the tranquility here; the only sounds are bird calls, the buzzing of bees, and the occasional splash of turtles diving into the water. When the winds are calm, the pond mirrors the clouds perfectly, creating a peaceful and picturesque setting. Have you visited Avery’s Pond recently?
Day Hiker: Point Defiance Loop Trail - An Undiscovered Gem in Penn Valley

2 months ago | mtdemocrat.com | Mary West

Explore the Trails Along the South Yuba RiverThe South Yuba River at Bridgeport spills into Englebright Lake, forming part of the beautiful South Yuba River State Park. Here, you’ll find sand beaches, lush trails and the historical Bridgeport Covered Bridge—the longest covered span in existence, as noted by the plaque near its entrance. Though the bridge is currently closed for major renovations due to twisting, you can still admire its structure, now exposed as the shingles have been removed.