April 9, 2011 - Hiking near Glen Ellen, CA with Tonia, Kevin and kids

My friends Tonia and Kevin live in lovely Sonoma, CA with their two kids Blake and Lucas. They are avid outdoor lovers and i try to go with them when i have the chance. This day they showed me their secret  hiking place near Glen Ellen, CA.

Lucas cooperating with the cameraman.

Blake showing off his architectural talents with Tonia lending a hand.

Blake

Tonia, Kevin, Blake and Lucas

April 1, 2011 - Mt Tamalpais in Marin County, CA

Mt Tamalpais is a MUST see for any visitor to the Bay Area. It can be seen from all over the area and the views from the summit are outstanding. It is possible to drive most of the way to the summit. There is a small circular trail around the top. After doing that one we did the difficult Pantoll Trail which heads straight down the mountain all the way to the coast. We only did half of it, but it was certainly worth it!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Tamalpais_State_Park

Looking to the west with the ocean far behind.

Looking to the north with San Rafael in full view.

Up towards the North Bay with Novato and beyond.

My hiking buddies!

Looking at the San Rafael-Richmond Bridge and over to the East Bay

The Marin Islands

Mill Valley below and San Francisco beyond

The Tiburon Peninsula

This picture means we moved on to the Pantoll Trail.

Still spring in these parts and the orchids are loving it.

We made a nice moss necklace for Pandora.

The slugs are out! Watch where you step.