Stillwater Fire Tower

I feel like I'm playing catch up when it comes to hiking and traveling. I moved to New York during the winter, so the snow limited my ability to go out. Then, once the snow was gone, quarantine happened. Now, I'm able to go to parks and hike some trails. Let me tell you, I've missed it so much. 

I drove a couple miles from home and into the mountains. I ended up in the forest with no cell signal. Who doesn't love that? I do. I love being able to disconnect from the world for a little bit and just lose myself in nature. 

The drive took me down a road that quickly changed from pavement to dirt. Parking was a little lot on the side of the road, with 3 spots. 

The trail itself was beautiful and ran deep into the forest. There was a couple small foot bridges that went over a little stream that ran along the trail.

 It had a slight incline, but wasn't anything too difficult. At the end of the trail there is a clearing where the fire tower stands. There's even a little picnic table where you can have a picnic or just enjoy nature. 

Climbing the tower was an experience. I'm slightly afraid of heights and the wind was gusting but the tower isn't super high, so it doesn't take long to get to the top. 

The view from inside the tower was absolutely stunning. There are windows in the tower that you can open up to get pictures. 

Inside there is a map that has a little metal rod that you can spin around. The road points to specific locations on the map, which you can see from the tower. 

The hike was roughly 2 miles there and back. I highly recommend wearing bug spray. The mosquitoes were crazy.  

As always, whatever trash you bring with you, take with you when you leave.

Would you climb the tower to see this amazing view ?

Pixley Falls New York

With New York slowly opening up after the quarantine, it was time to get out of the house and into the woods. It's been far too long since I've been able to hike. I've missed it. 

I decided to go to Pixley Falls. 

The main falls

It's a 1.2 mile hike located near Booneville, NY, although if you want to just see the main falls, it's shorter. I decided to just do the entire trail. 

The main falls were gorgeous. There is a nice little picnic table near the base of the falls for you to sit and have lunch. There was quite a few people at the falls, so we decided to continue on through the trail. 

It was quiet and peaceful and not crowded at all. Birds and chipmunks were running around beside us. The trail isn't the best marked, but it's easy to figure out where to go. 

All along the trail, there are multiple smaller waterfalls. It's definitely worth the hike. The trail was a little muddy in places, but was fairly easy to do.

You're even able to be on top of the falls, if you so choose. Just be careful because the rocks can be slick. 

Overlooking the main falls

I highly recommend this hike if you want something short, not to difficult and full of beautiful scenery.

As always, respect the area. Don't go off the trail or bother nature. And please, take out any trash that you bring in.

What's your favorite waterfall hike?

More of the Best Coffee Shops on Oahu

Since writing my previous post The Best Coffee Shops on Oahu I've discovered a couple more hidden gems. I mean, I'm sure that comes as no surprise for any of you, since you all know how much I love coffee! 

Honestly, most of these I just happened to drive by and I had to try them. 

• Ali'i Coffee Co

I was driving around downtown and I looked over and happened to see it. I immediately pulled over into a nearby parking area and went in. 

They have tons of unique options of drinks (they're known for their cold brew). I decided to try the  iced Taro Ube Latte. 

The barista shook my drink as though it was a cocktail and handed it to me. The vibrantly purple drink was absolutely delicious! If you're ever in Honolulu I totally recommend trying it. 

35 S. Beretania St

Honolulu Hi 96813

Also, they offer reusable straws for $1. You should totally get one! Help save the environment!

• Drive Thru Joe

Drive Thru Joe is a local coffee truck. They offer unique takes on cold brew coffee, such as Caramel Cream and Hawaiian Tropic.

Caramel Cream Cold Brew

 All of their coffee is delicious! And the owners are absolutely lovely people.

Drive Thru Joe is currently located at Schofield Barracks. You will need base access to try their delicious coffee. 

Here's their Facebook where you can see any updates or changes in location.

• Chad Lou Coffee Roasters

This small, cozy coffee shop is hidden in Kailua Town. It's the perfect place to stop and get a coffee and just hang out. 

 They even offer bagged coffee for purchase, that is roasted in store.

45 Kihapai St

Kailua Hi 96734

• Morning Brew

Morning Brew just opened in downtown Kaka'ako. The coffee shop itself is very modern and clean. They have local art displayed on the walls.

The view from upstairs in Morning Brew

The coffee is amazing! They also offer a pretty large food menu that includes waffles and sandwiches. It's a great place to hang out with friends or even bring you laptop and do some work. 

685 Auahi St 

#113

Honolulu Hi 96813

Have you tried any of these coffee shops?