Thoughts on biodiversity during a pandemic.

If you’re new to backcountry travel in popular regions of the U.S., you might be surprised by the prevalence of permit requirements in place. But don’t be dismayed, with a little research and some patience, you can learn to navigate these systems with the ease of following a well-groomed trail.

Living alongside someone has its long list of hardships. Being a human is complicated, so doing life together with another inevitably compounds the challenges. Then, try cramming that relationship into a tiny space, then include all the surprises that come along with road trips, and you might think you’ve concocted the perfect recipe for disaster. But with all the troubles that come from time spent on the road with a partner, there’s also lots of silver linings to be found – improvements in communication, firming up of personal boundaries, and the ability to establish a strong sense of self in the midst of an enmeshed life – are all great traits that can be developed while cohabiting a cramped space.

There’s no better feeling than flying down the highway, en route to explore someplace new, with the windows down and the breeze blowing through our hair – and your pup couldn’t agree more. Road trips are a blast, but nothing can make them more fun than bringing your furry family member along for the ride. But with every great adventure comes added responsibility – as keeping your beastie safe and comfortable is always a key component to any successful trip.

A mere 3 hours from the bustle of the Bay Area, lies a serene outdoor wonderland surrounded by numerous river canyons which carve their way through miles of granite ridges and conifer groves, and spotted with recreation areas where one can still find a last-minute campsite on a holiday weekend. For those who like to get away from the crowds, Tahoe National Forest is a gem worth discovering.