THE JOURNAL
Backpacking, campsites, day hikes, road trips and adventures from Northern California.
FEATURED STORY
An alpine adventure into the heart of the Sierra Nevada, where granite peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and endless wilderness make the journey worth every step to Lake Aloha in Desolation Wilderness.
FAVORITES FROM THE JOURNAL
Backpacking to Big Bear Lake in the Trinity Alps Wilderness.
Swim in an alpine lake of your dreams!
Camping at Point Reyes National Seashore.
Theres something magical about a coastal campground.
Backpacking to Emerald and Sapphire Lakes.
My first ever backpacking trip!
SACRAMENTO & BEYOND
Day hike to Horsetail Falls.
My absolute favorite day hike from Sacramento.
Day hike to Mount Tamalpais State Park.
Get close to the stunning coastal redwoods.
Day hike to Half Dome Cables in Yosemite.
I do not recommend completing this in a day, but it is do able.
WELCOME TO KINDLY, KAITLIN
Where I sign off on some of the best outdoor adventures Northern California has to offer. Think of it as my own little journal, filled with the places I explore, the things I learn, and plenty of mistakes I don’t want you to make.
I first started Kindly, Kaitlin to document a five-week trip through Thailand and Vietnam, breaking down our itinerary, experiences, and costs along the way. Later, I was lucky enough to spend three weeks camping at five California national and state parks. That adventure eventually led me to Sacramento, where I dove headfirst into the wonders of backpacking.
Since then, I’ve gotten married, had two boys, and am slowly finding my way back to the trails—this time as a family of four.
I hope my adventures inspire you to get outside, help you avoid a few of the mistakes I’ve made, and, most importantly, spread a little kindness along the way.
