Some places are almost impossible to explain until you’ve stood in them. Juan Veruete calls the Sierra Nevada his “million-word places”—landscapes where even the best photograph never quite captures the scale of what’s in front of you. In this conversation, Juan joins the Sierra Rec Now Podcast to talk about a backpacking life shaped by … Read more
When most people think of backpacking in the Sierra, they picture the big summer push: long days, dry boots, and miles of trail under a hot sun. But if you’ve ever shouldered a pack in September or October, you know the truth — fall is the Sierra’s quiet masterpiece. The bugs are gone, the crowds … Read more
By Charlie Pankey | Sierra Rec Magazine The Sierra Nevada isn’t just a destination—it’s a legacy. Few people embody that truth better than Brian Martz, this week’s guest on the Sierra Rec Now Podcast. Known to thousands of California students as the Water Guy, Brian’s life story runs far deeper than his classroom mascot role. … Read more
A Saturday Escape Down 395 It’s been a long month here at Sierra Rec Magazine, but as the weekend arrived and we wrapped up the Spring issue, that familiar urge to get outside and see something new took over. After all the editing, reviewing, and planning, it was time to fill our own cup with … Read more
A weekend in the Chocolate Lakes with new friends The Invite was for a quick trip into the John Muir Wilderness. The Chocolate Lakes off the Bishop Pass trail at South Lake near Bishop. This 6.6-mile loop trail is generally considered moderately challenging by visitors, but it is often completed as a day trip that … Read more
The Sierra Nevada’s. Think granite mountains scraping the sky, carved-up valleys thick with pine trees, and – for us fishing fanatics – a whole lotta hidden gems. This ain’t your typical tourist playground. We’re talking secret stashes that aren’t on any map, perfect for the angler who wants a little adventure with their cast. Think … Read more
On The Hunt For Untamed Beauty in the High Sierra? Are you yearning for an unparalleled adventure that will take you to the most remote and rugged regions of the Sierra Nevada? Look no further than a backpacking journey through the Sierra untamed wilderness. With its towering peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and diverse wildlife, the Sierra Nevada offers … Read more