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On top of Pasadena: Henninger Flats

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Overlooking Foothill Blvd and the 210 Freeway is Henninger Flats sitting right above Pasadena, California.  The exceptional convenience and ease from city-life to this serene mountainous escape makes the 2+ mile hike onward & upward worthwhile.  As a first timer and fairly infrequent hiker, I took the invitation as I would a stroll through Fryman Cyn or Griffith Park.  BOY, was I in for an exsertus surprise!  At 2,600 feet above sea level, Henninger Flats is atop Eaton Canyon within the San Gabriel Mountains inside the Angeles National Forest.  Starting at the residential area below, for well over an hour straight we trekked uphill for about 2 miles before we made it to the top.  Along the way there were outlooks and benches to take in the beautiful view.  We ceased the opportunity to gulp down water for hydration and was overly ambitious performing tricep dips on the benches until muscle fatigue.  It hurt sooo GOOD! *insert sarcasm here*

The trail does not offer much shade, so protection from the sun is definitely mandatory.  Having an affinity towards Eaton Canyon, I enjoyed looking down at oh so familiar bridge and trails leading to the waterfalls below.  The entire expedition took approximately 3 hours from bottom to top and back to the car.  I highly suggest bringing plenty of water and a light picnic to enjoy once you get to the top.  There’s plenty of shade at Henninger Flats, along with grills and a quaint little museum with stuffed animal carcasses (which I don’t exactly appreciate).  It’s a known campers haven, so feel free to pitch a tent if you can make it up there with your gear.  Campers & sightseers can also reach the top through a road that leads straight to the camping grounds.  I definitely rank Henninger Flats a ‘must do’ for anyone that enjoys hiking and is looking for a challenge.  It’s amazing how many gems are right outside your front door, all you have to do is dig a little deeper.  Even after 5 years in Los Angeles the sunsets amaze me and skyline of mountains near and far keep me in awe.  Now to find the next adventurous hike to conquer and see the land from a different lens.

 

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Glowing in the Dark: Blacklight Run™ Los Angeles

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California is known for not only it’s naturally beautiful landscape but also for the beautifully fit people.  Every other week there’s some sort of fitness challenge, obstacle course or 5K happening all over the city.  One of the most memorable and enjoyable races I’ve done is the Blacklight Run™ at Pomona Fairgrounds.  I enjoyed the evening with colleagues from work, where there was tons of people in white, glow sticks and beer leading up to the race.  I left the night with puddles of chalk in my sports bra and halo of lime dust atop my coifed hair.  The messiness was well worth the fun, just wish I was more prepared.

On Saturday, October 5th it happens again in Los Angeles!  The unique evening 5K is packed with UV neon glowing fun for all fitness levels and ages, available all over the country.  For those looking to get festive with the outfits keep it creative, but don’t expect to stay cute! From chalk dust to highlighter juice, you will literally illuminate the night away.  Be sure to check out the official website to register and find out more information:  http://www.blacklightrun.com

 

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To iFLY or not to Skydive…

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I’ve contemplated skydiving for the past 10 years, and at this stage of my life I’m on the NOT side of the fence.  There’s a few things that make me hesitate, #1 I don’t want to sh*t myself while riding tandem with a handsome risk-taking hunk.  #2 what do I have to prove, that I’m not scared of heights, I’m fearless or I just do pretty dope stuff?!  That’s typically the story I hear from most people that’s done the real thing.  So to test the waters a few friends and I got sauced up on mimosas and someone randomly came up with the bright good idea to do iFLY.  (DISCLAIMER: I do not encourage any one to try this while under the influence of alcohol or any drugs.  Concentration and following directions are critical for the experience)

Universal City Walk is considered the entertainment capital of LA, it’s full of tourists, SoCal teens and first dates.  When first approaching the iFLY contraption, there was a crowd of folks watching in awe as the instructor put on a show of amazing back flips and tricks.  Once I paid for the experience and signed the waivers, our group was quickly ushered inside to watch a 10 minute video chopped up with instructions and safety tips.  We were given cool one-piece suits, helmets & goggles prior to entering the high-powered skydiving simulation.

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Overall the experience definitely gave me a rush!  However, having a oversized fan forcing you into the air and blowing up your nostrils isn’t the most pleasant feeling.  I had a hard time remembering all the instructions and moves to maintain balance to allow the air to take me higher.  My mind was still a bit hazy and all I could concentrate on is not getting my jaw latched on the fan below.

It just so happened a few friends actually took the plunge to jump out of a plane and shared their experience with me.  Some mentioned the feeling of serenity, awe and just empowerment.  Others was high off the rush and have even started planning their second jump.  Most people that I’ve met, that’s actually leapt off a plane, truly felt it was a life altering experience and highly recommends it.  I’ve honestly amused myself with the idea and may come to a crossroads in my life that may push me over the edge.  Until then, iFLY will do…  In the meantime, feel free to share and even encourage me with your experience of the real thing.

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3 vineyards + 10 miles = 13 ways to get drunk on a bike

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During my exploration of the California lifestyle, I organized a group trip with professional colleagues to team-build and exhale with the Santa Barbara Adventure Company.  We thought it would be a great idea to bike and booze through the beautiful Santa Ynez wine country.  Being a semi-city girl, not riding a bike for over two decades, I had to give myself a pat on the back to make it through 10 miles of easy riding along the beautiful landscape of popular California vintners.

The SBAC staff was young, exciting and very accommodating.  The selections from each winery ranged from light whites to robust reds, with each location offering it’s own special charm.  My absolute favorite was Riverbench Vineyard & Winery, our last stop on Foxen Canyon Road.  This is where I purchased a flavorful rosé that I had the pleasure of sharing with someone special :).  I even had a chance to pick a grape and experience the sweet burst of goodness straight from the vine.

Bike & Booze: 13 ways to get drunk on a bike

  1. Dress comfortable
  2. Wear sunblock
  3. Wear a hat
  4. Don’t wear flip-flops
  5. Be sure to wear protective gear (helmet, elbow pads, etc.)
  6. If it’s been awhile, practice in the parking lot & pace yourself
  7. Stay hydrated
  8. Be sure to refuel with snacks & hearty lunch
  9. Take the time to smell and embody the flavor of each wine selection
  10. Strategize each complimentary full glass of wine (start with whites, then go to reds)
  11. Charm & secretly tip the pourer 😉
  12. Only purchase a bottle that you are in love with
  13. Eat the complimentary crackers in moderation