Allison Coulter

Allison is a writer, herbalist, musician, and lover of nature. She is an avid traveler and backpacker, having traveled throughout most of the United States and through parts of Asia and Europe. She has lived in Hawaii, Philadelphia, New Jersey, Boston, and of course, California. Allison has lived in California for 5 years, working on farms and in Yosemite National Park. She has been all over the state, enjoying many cities and of course, the many amazing outdoor wonders California offers. She currently resides in Aptos, Santa Cruz County, CA.

30 Useful Things to Know Before Visiting Yosemite in Winter & Best Things to Do

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Yosemite National Park in the Sierra Nevada Mountains is a beautiful place to visit no matter the time of year, and a winter getaway to Yosemite is no exception. From high alpine hiking to amazing scenery, Yosemite is a dream come true for outdoor-loving people, and it’s not a surprise that Yosemite figures high on … Read more 30 Useful Things to Know Before Visiting Yosemite in Winter & Best Things to Do

One Day in San Francisco: How to Maximize Your SF Day Trip in 2022

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There are many reasons you may only have one day in San Francisco!  Perhaps you have a layover in San Francisco on your way to another destination. Or maybe you’re just passing through on a Pacific Coast Highway road trip, and have only one day in your itinerary available for San Francisco.  Whatever the reason, you … Read more One Day in San Francisco: How to Maximize Your SF Day Trip in 2022

Your Wonderful Weekend in Santa Cruz Itinerary!

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Santa Cruz is a popular coastal town on California’s Central Coast. It is largely known for its surfing culture. It is an artist friendly location where much of the state’s counterculture has evolved. On top of this, Santa Cruz is extremely family-friendly and offers a wonderful classic beach town experience for all. There are many … Read more Your Wonderful Weekend in Santa Cruz Itinerary!

Hiking the Lost Coast Trail: Guide to Trekking California’s Wildest Stretch of Coastline

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The Lost Coast Trail (LCT)  is a backpacking trail in the Sinkyone Wilderness, Humboldt County, California. It has a north and south section covering 60 miles of California’s beautiful coastline. Most hike the northern section: this is the section we will be covering in this guide to hiking the Lost Coast trail. The northern section … Read more Hiking the Lost Coast Trail: Guide to Trekking California’s Wildest Stretch of Coastline

30 Essential Things to Know Before Visiting Yosemite in Fall (Including Fall Hikes!)

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View of the foliage of Yosemite in fall with half dome in the distance on the Merced River

Yosemite National Park is open all year long, and each season offers something unique. Fall is an especially great time to visit the park as it will contain fewer crowds and ample opportunities for leaf-peeping (California has some great fall foliage!). Things begin to quiet down. The beauty is still, and always, mindblowing — and … Read more 30 Essential Things to Know Before Visiting Yosemite in Fall (Including Fall Hikes!)

How to Spend a Weekend in Yosemite: 2 Day Itinerary

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A weekend in Yosemite National Park is hardly enough time to cover everything to see. A lifetime is hardly enough time. I used to work in Yosemite, and there’s still more for me to discover. Yosemite spans over 1,100 square miles and offers endless vistas, lakes, creeks and waterfalls. It is built of granite slabs … Read more How to Spend a Weekend in Yosemite: 2 Day Itinerary

21 Magical Things to Do in Santa Cruz, CA

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the boardwalk at santa cruz california on the beach with rides and roller coasters

When people think about California, they often think about surfing and beautiful beaches. Well, if that’s what you have in mind, Santa Cruz is the perfect synthesis of them both. Not only is Santa Cruz a mecca for surfers from around the world, it has some of the best outdoor recreation attractions in the state, … Read more 21 Magical Things to Do in Santa Cruz, CA

7 Phenomenal Santa Cruz Breweries: Craft Beer Guide to Santa Cruz

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A flight of four beers on a square serving tray

Not every city provides the opportunity for an entire article about breweries, but there are seriously so many breweries in Santa Cruz, it has to be done! The craft brewing trend has moved across the United States in higher and higher numbers for the past 10 years. These microbreweries provide a personal connection that goes … Read more 7 Phenomenal Santa Cruz Breweries: Craft Beer Guide to Santa Cruz

21 Magnificent Things to Do in Monterey, California

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monterey bay aquarium fish in the water in a tank

Monterey is an amazing coastal destination in California. The oceans of Monterey Bay are largely protected by marine reserve areas, creating pristine marine habitats teeming with life. When you come to Monterey, you will have the opportunity to explore and enjoy the wild waters of the Pacific Ocean while immersing yourself in a beautiful and … Read more 21 Magnificent Things to Do in Monterey, California

Where to Eat in Santa Cruz: 15 Restaurants You’ll Love

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Santa Cruz is the kind of city that offers a wide array of experiences to heighten the senses…. and food is no exception! You can find yourself at peace on a cliff overlooking the ocean while watching a sunset, or you can ride “The Giant Dipper” rollercoaster or surf a massive wave for an adrenaline … Read more Where to Eat in Santa Cruz: 15 Restaurants You’ll Love