My husband and I recently attended a large group event in the Mendocino National Forest.  It was atypical of our usual activities and yet enjoyable, as the group was vivacious and eclectic.  One commonality among us was that as Land Rover owners, most have become Land Rover mechanics rather than succumb to the inevitably outlandish prices of service centers.

It was our first trip to the Mendocino National Forest and our impressions were diverse.  The Forest is highly regulated, due in large part to the number of interest groups vying for its use.  From the frequency and markings of usage trails, it is evident that the National Forest Service strives to allocate use fairly and accurately.  Such rigors make the Mendocino National Forest an ideal destination for families with young children who are seeking an outing with manageable risk.

To our delight, portions of the Mendocino National Forest were very different from other wilderness areas we have visited.  This photograph alludes to the steep terrain and beautiful vistas that captivated us and will undoubtedly garner our return.