Hiking up a familiar trail at Twin Lakes, Bridgeport California, senior Breelynn Butler and her mother unexpectedly come across one of the forest’s largest predators, a black bear and her two cubs. Once the bear and Breelynn both caught a glimpse of each other, the mighty mother black bear and her cubs started scrambling up a pine tree like squirrels. They both continued down the trail despite getting the surprise of a lifetime.
“It’s a little overwhelming to see such a big animal that close to you,” Butler said.
Even as a small toddler in the woods, Butler has been enjoying the outdoors for as long as she can remember. She has some years of camping under her belt from going with her family and her love for the outdoors fuels her hobby. Hiking and camping provides a time where people can go outside and experience all parts of nature, and for Butler the atmosphere of hiking is perfect.
“It’s all the fresh air and wildlife that you get to observe,” Butler said, “It’s definitely a way to de-stress.”
Whenever Butler has a free weekend she tries to visit local hiking sites like Lake Dikson and Lake Calavera. Butler often hikes up to the peak of Lake Calavera mountain to witness the beautiful view of the City of Carlsbad.
She also enjoys sharing this quality time with her dad. Both hikes offer a recreational experience and are favorites of Butler.
“One of my biggest goals is to climb Half Dome, and I’m positive I’ll be hiking and camping in the future,” Butler said.
Krissa Jackson