History Mystery #97, Chinchilla Ranches and Mystery Signs in the Madera County Mountain Communities Prepared by Andy Brooks, Raymond Museum volunteer The Chinchilla ranch industry, though short lived by most history standards, had a favorable economic impact on the Madera County mountain area communities. How many ranches were there? What other businesses were created from the Chinchilla ranch industry? Who ...

The Merced River Canyon’s Hite’s Cove Trail has reopened just in time for a glorious poppy extravaganza. It has been 3 long years since it was closed from the Ferguson Fire. If you don’t feel like going the distance that I did, the most concentrated area of poppies is within the first 1/2 mile or so. But that is also ...

There are no alarms set and you are cuddled up in bed after a good night’s sleep. It’s late morning and there is nowhere to go, no rushing around to do. No school bus, no work to be done, just relaxing at home with loved ones. However, breakfast is calling your name. Your stomach rumbles as your stumble toward the ...

Bass Lake springs into action with Miller’s Landing Resort and The Forks Resort opening for the season today, March 26. Plus, Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad is scheduled to roar out of the station Thursday, April 1.   BASS LAKE, CA  – Located 14-miles from the south gate entrance of Yosemite National Park, Bass Lake is known for sparkling warm water, ...

Two weeks ago, we wrote about the retreat of winter in Yosemite as spring approaches. But Yosemite remains unpredictable. This past week, colder temperatures – along with more snow and precipitation – returned, bringing beautiful winter views to the park once again, along with welcome additions to the Sierra snowpack as California prepares for yet another year of drought conditions. ...

FRESNO — A time-honored tradition in the Central Valley for over 60 years is rolling with the pandemic punches and going virtual this year. Fresno State knows the importance of exposure to higher education and public speaking at an early age. For 62 years, Fresno State has done its part in cultivating this exposure for Central Valley’s elementary-aged children. Organizers ...

Spring has definitely sprung in the Merced River Canyon and the poppy show has begun! Hike it, bike it, drive it or find a good spot to sit in a chair and watch it. There are so many ways to view these beautiful, golden poppies. Where: Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Merced River Recreation Management AreaDistance: 10.76 miles round trip but ...

The perfect recipe for spring: Cheesy Asparagus Tarts in less than an hour. You can almost feel spring in the air, and with the warmer weather comes delicious, delectable foods. From casseroles to fresh fruits and wholesome vegetables, a change of season offers something to look forward to for nearly every foodie. A spring dish that is sure to impress ...

While the Yosemite Museum is presently closed, the 36th annual Yosemite Renaissance exhibit will open in Oakhurst today, Friday, March 19 at Yosemite Gateway Art Center.    OAKHURST, CA – The Yosemite Renaissance exhibition is an annual exhibit that offers an opportunity for artists inspired by nature and the California Sierra Nevada region to display and promote their art. For over ...

By Ron Allen, UC Master Gardener, Mariposa County Although autumn is generally the best time to add native plants to your landscape, spring is the next best time. Choosing a planting site is important. Fire-prone plants such as manzanitas, pines and plants with resinous leaves and stems should be located well away from structures. Toyon and Redbud are fire-resistant, look ...