• Views Lassen Volcanic National Park California
    Local Discoveries,  Weekend Getaways

    Lassen Volcanic National Park: A Bay Area Summer Escape

    Craving a summer escape from the Bay Area’s heatwaves and bustling crowds? Lassen Volcanic National Park offers a refreshing alternative! Just a breezy 4.5-hour drive north, Lassen greets you with a stunning blend of volcanic wonders, crystal-clear lakes, and tranquil surroundings. Perfect for camping, hiking, fishing, and simply unwinding in nature’s embrace, Lassen is an ultimate summer retreat for Bay Area residents. Curious about what’s in store? Buckle up, because this post will explore the park’s top highlights, share practical tips for your visit, and reveal the secrets to crafting an unforgettable Bay Area getaway. Chester: Your Basecamp for Lassen Adventures Driving from the SF Bay Area? Make the most…

  • Church at Fort Ross, California
    Local Discoveries,  Weekend Getaways

    Fort Ross, CA: From Russia With Love

    Surrounded by majestic evergreen forest, Fort Ross, the 19th-century Russian fort, is perched above the Pacific Ocean, a mere hour and a half north of the Golden Gate Bridge. While the San Francisco Bay Area has its fair share of historical sites and unique attractions, Fort Ross in Sonoma County is a destination in itself. Beginning our trip on a Thursday morning, traffic was fairly light and stress-free, versus white-knuckling it most of the way stuck in weekend traffic. And, once out of the City and up the road a ways, we were weaving through the countryside and the farmlands of Petaluma. Hungry and looking for a place to eat,…