OCT 05 2013 

BY JULIA

The planned XplorMor photo-expedition to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks was thwarted by the U.S. Government shutdown. We had to think quickly as we were already en route to the parks. Thanks to Starbucks and WiFi, we soon discovered another option: Mono Lake and other California State and Local Parks.

South Tufa Trail, Mono Lake, California by Julia at XplorMor

We re-routed our journey, and set course a little disoriented, yet optimistic. Apparently we were not alone, encountering locals and travelers from Californians to Englishmen to Eastern Europeans to a Japanese couple who were also adrift and uncertain how to reorient themselves. As the days unfold, Good Fortune seems to have followed along for the duration with one lovely adventure leading into the next. Even the weather has behaved beautifully. And instead of another trip to Sequoia, though beautiful and worthy of many visits, the new destinations are exactly that: new. Finding places and trails and scenic views not experienced before adds to the excitement.

Hike into Lundy Canyon by Julia at XplorMor

There has been exceptional photo opportunities and memory-making moments to share. So with life’s lemons, we made tasty lemonade and despite the shutout, we were not shutdown.

View slide shows and read more about Inyo National Forest.