Tips From Our Experience of Summer at The Sequoias

Make no mistake about going to The Sequoias in the summer; it is very hot.  Even at high elevation, it will fluctuate between the high 80's-100's degrees. 

Be sure you have water--preferably from a reusable bottle--and if you find a way to make and keep it ice cold, you will appreciate it once you start exploring the different areas of the National Park. Bring snacks if you feel so inclined or just eat a filling, nourishing breakfast before you start your day.

Wear comfortable shoes and breathable clothes made for warm to hot weather. 

Bring and apply good and effective sunscreen. Sunglasses 😎 or a good sun hat are great accessories to also have. 

If you love taking pictures, definitely take a camera because there are many scenic photo spots: majestic trees, rivers, massive rocks, canyons and ravines. 

 

Hiking is plentiful with varying degrees of length and difficulty. Definitely do your research so you can find the ones that suit your fitness level. Here's an example of an article guide with some suggestions on hiking trails:

Hiking Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

There are many more hikes that exist at the National Park that isn't covered in this article so if you don't find one to your liking, keep looking around for others that you may find more desirable. 

If you are, in any way, prone to motion sickness, you MUST do yourself a favor and get some kind of relief for that.  We chose a  CVS medication comparable to Dramamine (found right next to it on the shelf). The roads are incredibly winding up and down the mountain. As someone that has experienced severe symptoms of motion sickness and am aware of my triggers, I KNOW that if I didn't prepare for it, I would have been sick the whole vacation time. But I found a way--a wonderous tiny pill-- that works for me. If you suffer the same issues, I hope you find yours. 😉

There is a relatively low entrance fee to the park that is valid for one week.  There are also different kinds of passes that offer discounts especially if you plan on visiting more National Parks throughout the year. Make sure you research and check out which passes may work best for you. 

The Parks are teeming with trees and plant-life. Without preparation, the experience can be harsh with the heat and the challenges of the terrain whether driving or walking. But overall, it is incredibly beautiful and the sights, sounds and vibes are meant to bring anyone seeking it, serenity and peace. We certainly found those moments.

 

The Anxiety of the Passing Lane

We have many joyful memories involving road trips our family has taken over the years. I cherish and love spending time with The Huz and the Boys. It's the summer, so we were off again to new adventures. 

We found ourselves on a two-lane CA-Highway that required us to turn on our headlights so that oncoming cars could see us if they wanted to pass or if we passed them using their opposite (to us) lane. When following a super slow vehicle, it feels absolutely necessary to make this move. But for me, a self described no-shame scaredy cat, I was filled with adrenaline when we had to go for it and go on the opposite lane to pass a slow vehicle. The Huz was always careful and made sure to follow the rules of the road, only passing on the broken lines and making sure he didn't see any oncoming vehicles. It can get super tricky because the road curves and visibility can be impeded. I think on the way there and back, he only used the passing method a total of 3 times. He never made any particularly crazy moves even when he had to pass multiple slow vehicles. I have great faith in the Huz' driving ability and that is never in question.

But yes, I was filled with much anxiety about the whole process. I wish they had a proper passing lane every once in a while instead of the idea of going on the opposite direction. But also, it has been like this forever, I'm sure, & because most drivers are careful, I'm sure there aren't any more accidents than there would be on any normal freeway. So, it works. I know this.Was I still nervous? Absolutely!

I clutched my St. Christopher Medal to cope and closed my eyes the very few times I felt I needed to. It's just like everything else we need to deal with--just gotta find your coping method and power through it. I've always been a big worry-wart and I find that it seems to be getting worse as I get older. So, it's something I want to work on. And now, reflecting on our experience with this particular road that many people travel every day, I'm even more aware of the difference between being scared and being careful so that the fear is unnecessary.  That's the difference I need to work on.  Sending light & love out into the Universe! 😘

 

The Tallest, Fastest, & Longest Dive Roller Coaster in California

 The "Emperor" in Sea World San Diego is their newest thrill coaster offering and according to USA Today was one of "the most anticipated rides of 2022". Since it's been a couple of years since the guys, my favorite roller coaster fans, have ridden one, I thought I'd document their experience and find out if this rates high among their favorites. 

They were able to ride it several times since they chose it as their "rope drop" coaster and the crowds hadn't arrived yet. Loose articles and clothing are not permitted on the ride--that includes hats, scarves, glasses, keys, etc.  The Huz witnessed a guy lose his ear pods just (maybe roughly) taking it out of his pocket and inadvertently landing on the tracks. His look of horror and disbelief sums it all up.  Be mindful and careful of your personal belongings. Also, I've witnessed people's hats, scarves and even cell phones fly off during a sharp coaster turn, so bear that in mind as well. There are ride restrictions: you must be no shorter than 52" and no taller than 78".

The"Emperor" itself was rated by the guys (on a consensus) with a 7 out of 10 (10 being best--The Hulk at Islands of Adventure in Florida is the only coaster they have ever rated at the coveted 10). The ride is fast and smooth and they loved the take-off and drop. The exhilarating screams from riders right before that drop was enjoyable to hear. Unfortunately, the ride is too short. Before you can even enjoy it and get your adrenaline really pumping, the ride is over. 😑

**The boys actually liked another coaster called the "Electric Eel" better, although the First-Born did complain of a slight feeling of motion sickness (which went away fairly quickly for him but if you're prone to that I feel like you should be warned). 

Wishing big greetings to all thrill seekers! ☮ Remember to wear sunscreen and stay hydrated.