Half Dome cables in place in Yosemite

by Kraig Becker on

The most iconic hike in Yosemite National Park opened this past week when the Park Service announced that the cables are now in place on Half Dome, the giant slab of granite that is one of the most recognizable landmarks in that park.

During the summer months, the Half Dome hike has become a popular draw for Yosemite, so much so that permits are now required to make the 16-mile round trip hike to the summit. Along that route, hikers gain more than 4800 feet in altitude, which means that the trail gets extremely steep at some points. In order to make the trek safer and more accessible, the National Park Service installs metal cables each year. Those cables serve as hand holds for those making the trip to the top, helping them to ascend the more treacherous sections of the trail.

As you can imagine, the Half Dome hike is a strenuous one, and not just because of the physical challenges of the trail. During the summer, Yosemite Valley can get quite warm, which can cause problems for hikers who don’t bring enough water with them. Afternoon thunderstorms are not uncommon either, and the last place you want to be when the lighting starts crackling exposed on a giant slab of rock at altitude.

But those that do make the hike are rewarded with fantastic views of the surrounding California countryside. The Yosemite region is amongst the most beautiful locations in any national park, and the summit of Half Dome towers above the area, offering a breathtaking reward to those that manage to complete the hike. It is well worth the effort.

[Photo credit: Robert F. Bukaty/Associated Press]

Ski and bike Mammoth Mountain this weekend

by Kraig Becker on

The massive snowfalls that have blanketed the western U.S. this past winter and spring are making for some very unique opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts this summer. For instance, Mammoth Mountain in California has has remained open for skiing all year so far and yet they’ll also be opening their mountain bike park for the season today as well. That means, you’ll have the option to both ski and bike Mammoth this weekend!

To celebrate the opening of the newly revamped mountain bike park, the fine folks at Mammoth have put together some great packages to entice visitors to come enjoy this rare opportunity to hit the slopes and the park in the same day. Starting today, and running through the 4th of July, adrenaline junkies can get a Ski+Bike pass for just $79. For that price you get an unrestricted lift ticket for skiing and snowboarding and an unrestricted mountain biking lift ticket for the same day. They’ll even throw in free shuttle service to the trail for those who don’t want to pedal up hill. If you’re looking to take it a bit easier, there is also a Ski+Golf package that is also $79 and includes nine holes of golf instead of mountain biking. Learn more about both packages here.

The video below will give you an idea of what to expect in the mountain bike park, which features more than 70 miles of single-track, and drops over 3000 feet from the Mammoth Mountain summit. There are routes for all ages and skill levels, with scenic views to enjoy along the way.

You can also add Mammoth to our list of ski resorts open for the 4th of July weekend as well. Visitors will be treated to contests, music, parties, food, and fireworks. Check out all Independence Day activities here.

[Photo credit: Mammoth Mountain]


Ski resorts announce Independence Day skiing

by Kraig Becker on

This past winter saw record amounts of snow fall across the western United States, which made for one of the best ski seasons in recent memory. (not to mention great rafting too!) All of that snow allowed some resorts to stay open well into the spring, extending the season beyond all expectations. Now, in an unprecedented move, two resorts have announced that they’ll be open for skiing over the July 4th Independence Day weekend as well.

Late last week, California‘s Squaw Valley and Oregon‘s Mt. Bachelor, announced that their respective mountains would be open for business July 2nd through the 4th. Both resorts still have quite a bit of snow on their main runs, and they don’t seem to anticipate that changing dramatically between now and the Independence Day weekend. That means that skiers and snowboarders will get the very rare opportunity for summer fun on the slopes.

Both resorts will also be offering special activities on that weekend as well. For instance, Squaw Valley will be hosting a pool party, live bands, and a fireworks display. Private lessons are also 50% off as well. Mt. Bachelor will also have live music and have reduced lift tickets to just $30 per day. Additionally, the first 250 skiers and snowboarders to purchase lift tickets each day will receive a special “JulySki” t-shirt to commemorate this special event.

I think it is safe to say that when the ski season began late last year, no one was expecting to still be able to hit the slopes in July. If you’re a skier or snowboarder, I’m not sure how you could pass up an opportunity like this one.

Photo of the Day – colorful jellyfish

by Jeremy Kressmann on

Jellyfish may very well be one of the most bizarre looking creatures on earth. But watching them swim is mesmerizing. The pulsating shapes, bright colors and graceful movements all suggest a organism from a distant planet. One of these strangely fascinating marine creatures was captured in motion by Flickr user matt coats at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. The soft orange body and intricate tentacles contrast nicely with the vibrant blue background of the water.

Have any great photos from your recent travels? Why not add them to our Gadling group on Flickr? We might just pick one of yours as our Photo of the Day.

Del Mar Turf Club: your chance for access

by McLean Robbins on

Horse racing’s annual Triple Crown may have concluded without a new winner yet again, but that doesn’t mean that racing season has ended. Starting in mid-July, the luxe Park Hyatt Aviara resort is offering an exclusive partnership with the historic Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, a member’s only establishment that’s typically only been accessible to a select few.

Frequented by celebrities of both yore (think Bing Crosby and Ava Gardner) and today (Gwen Stefani, Owen Wilson), the turf club is opening its gates to guests of Park Hyatt Aviara Resort as part of a new overnight package offering.

The tony Turf Club is a genteel place from which to view some of Southern California’s best races. The Club includes amenities like private betting windows, food, and a bar.

Be advised a dress code is strictly enforced, including suits or daytime dresses for ladies a mandatory suit or sport jacket for gentlemen. Collared shirts are required, and short sleeved shirts are permitted only if the shirt is buttoned to the top button.