A roller coaster down a mountain?? Yes that is what I said lol. I can honestly say I had never thought about it, dreamed of it, or even considered it to be something I would actually enjoy doing, but I LOVED IT! Who would have thought that my husband and I would find such a place on our anniversary trip in Canada. I guess it was just meant to be lol! We do love adventures 🙂
I just got back from my very first trip out of the country. It was soooo exciting! In preparing for my trip, I came a crossed a few things that needed to be done before I left. I thought I would share these items with you so that your trip will go as smooth as mine :). Some of these items are pretty obvious, like getting a passport. However, there are several other items that are not in the “obvious’ category and I want to make sure you know them. Are you ready to plan your next out of country trip?? Or your first?? Let’s go!
California has a multitude of different landscapes all in one state. There are mountains, valleys, rolling hills, big cities, ocean views, deserts, volcanic areas, huge redwood trees and more! Today I am here to share some of my favorite places to visit in Northern California.
The foothills of California in the springtime are absolutely gorgeous! Green rolling hills, flowers blooming everywhere, and weather just right for hiking! I am always on the hunt for new hiking trails and I found one. It just so happened to be Earth day as well :). If you’re an avid hiker, or just a beginner, this trail will accommodate every level. It is so beautiful that I feel it would be appreciated by everyone! Plus there is a old movie set still on the property!
As you drive North into the town of St Helena, the view becomes so lush and green. Vineyards are everywhere and off to the left of the highway is the popular culinary school. I absolutely love this whole area. There are so many unique places to stop and eat or drink if you’re a wine lover :). As you drive a little further, past the culinary school, there is a beautiful little place I found called Brasswood! It is a winery that has so much more than just wine! There is a full restaurant, a tasting room, a bottle shop, and what I went there for…a bakery complete with coffee and hot chocolate!
Heading East up highway 50 we stopped in Placerville and found the cutest coffee shop! It’s called Totem Coffee. From its relaxing atmosphere to quality foods, this place is the perfect place to visit with a coffee date. They have coffee and delicious hot chocolate, teas and even local beers on tap. They offer a variety of small plate options that will satisfy your cravings :). Perfect for taking someone out on a first date or just hanging out with your friends.
This is by far one of the best places I have kayaked so far. Yes I am just getting out, and haven’t been to too many places yet, BUT this one truly is a must! There is over 600 acres of lake and 6 miles of shoreline to explore!! The water is so clear and beautiful. The shallower waters expose gorgeous bolders. We also saw huge rainbow trout swimming right under our kayaks, as well as crawdads on the shorelines. Some of the biggest fish we have seen, are in this area. The Mountains in the distance are absolutely beautiful. It is so nice being able to paddle around the lake and listen to the birds chirping away.