You set your out of office in your email. Hop into the car and rush out of the city. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for. To escape the daily routine and find some peace and quiet. The question is where? The answer as John Muir noted is “The Mountains.” Here’s five guaranteed ways to find that serenity in the High Sierra.

Ponder Existence From The Most Beautiful View In Lake Tahoe

15 treasures in Tahoe to find fun & relaxation

Monkey Rock
Photo By: Lisa Bao – Appears Courtesy: North Lake Tahoe Tourism Bureau

Even in the 1800’s, the famous author Henry David Thoreau escaped what he considered “over-civilization” in search of the raw and savage delight of the wilderness. For those wanting inspiration to write sagas like Thoreau, consider trying the short 2.6 mile hike to Monkey Rock. This decent-sized piece of granite, whose features resemble that of a monkey head near Incline Village, offers an epic view following a relatively short hike. For more one-of-a kind experiences like this, check out Treasures of Tahoe.

Savor Fresh Trout Prepared Over A Campfire

For a complete list of fishing spots in Mono County

Trout Camp Fire
Photo by John Salzarulo on Unsplash

There’s nothing more satisfying than enjoying fresh fish over a campfire. It’s a true delicacy that cannot be replicated at home. So when it comes to fishing for trout, Mono County is the hot bed. In fact, it’s a passion where the day that fishing season opens is named “Fishmas.” No matter the time of year, there are certain lakes that you can fish all year long albeit they are catch and release. For the full run-down on the seasons & year-round fishing, go here.

Retreat To Relaxation With A B&B

8 ways to stay in a B&B in Tuolumne County

Image appears courtesy: Visit Tuolumne

Sometimes you just need to put up your feet and let the stress unwind so fresh thoughts can trickle into your mind. You can stay in a cabin or a hotel, but there’s something a bit more personal with a B&B. From personalized attention to delicious food with a side of character, they’ll provide experiences for you to cherish. Combine it with adventures like wine & cider tastings or some outdoor recreation, and you’ll have memories that last a lifetime.

Curl Up With A Good Book On A Beach

Places to stay in Bass Lakecalifornia-high-sierra-madera-bass-lake-stand-up-paddle-sup-sunset-3Serenity doesn’t mean you HAVE to spend every moment moving. It also could mean un-plugging from the world by surrounding yourself in nature and reading a good book. Imagine the soothing sound of lapping water and the warm sun against your skin while you flip through a novel on the shores of Bass Lake. You can even consider combining this with a romantic getaway. Is there anything grander? We think not.

Savor A Glass Of Wine

Get the scoop about the under-the-radar wine tasting in Murphys

Zucca Vineyards Serenity in the High Sierra
Image appears courtesy: Calaveras County Visitors Bureau

Although the Calaveras County claim to fame is its “Jumping Frog” story, there’s much more to it including its wine. The beating heart of this wine making region is the historic town of Murphys where you can enjoy wine tasting. Expect to taste fantastic California classics like Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Zinfandel alongside unique varietals like Petit Verdot and Alicante Bouschet.

From decompressing in a B&B to enjoying the wilderness via a panoramic view or even a fish cooked over an open fire, the High Sierra will make sure that you find the serenity you’re looking for.

Author: Alex Silgalis

Alex founded Local Freshies® in 2014 to be the #1 website providing the “local scoop” on where to eat, drink & play in mountain towns throughout North America. When he’s not writing and executing marketing strategies for small businesses & agencies, he’s in search of the deepest snow in the winter and tackiest dirt in the summer.





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