Life on a Mountain: A Journey Through Silicon Valley’s Hidden Enchantment
Living in the Santa Cruz Mountains, just above Silicon Valley, may seem like a dream for many. But what does it truly take to call the mountains your home? This article explores both the challenges and the unique joys of mountain living, drawing insights from a personal experience.
Downside: The Daily Struggles
For the family that lived on 7 acres in the Santa Cruz Mountains, the journey to Silicon Valley was no trivial matter. The long commute required driving 35 miles each way, a 70-mile round trip that stretched every day of the week. This routine is echoed in the story of the author, who commutes with his wife, and their daughter flew the solo seat in the back, learning to navigate the radio by the age of two.
The dirt road that winds through their property added an extra layer of challenge. The daily commute up and down the mountain on the highway and the dirt road took a toll on their cars, particularly the brakes. New brake pads were required every 6,000 to 10,000 miles, and they consumed disc brake rotors at a high rate.
Power outages and mudslides were also recurring issues. Each winter, their electricity was cut off for up to four days due to winter storms. Trapped by landslides, they often resorted to using their Jeep and Volkswagen (VW) to navigate through the muck and drench. Curiously, the light VW proved better in muddier conditions than the heavier Jeep. A reliable 4KW electric generator was essential for running their water pumps and electric fridge, and a large propane tank ensured a steady supply of hot water and cooking gas.
Upside: Beneath the Surface Beauty
Life in the Redwood forest above Silicon Valley came with its own set of bliss. The intimate and quiet atmosphere was one of the most cherished aspects of their mountain living. Contrary to the bustling city or suburban life, they had the luxury of knowing their neighbors well, a community that valued mutual help and support.
When the author's pickup truck got stuck off-road, a neighbor with a 4WD tractor rescued them. Organized “road work parties” reinforced community bonds as neighbors collaboratively maintained the dirt roads, culminating in potluck dinners that brought everyone together. The security of the property was further enhanced by the long driveway, making it virtually impossible for strangers to find their home.
The sense of privacy in the mountains was extraordinary. The author recalls swimming without clothing and cultivating small guerilla gardens, cleverly hidden among the redwoods, to avoid detection by law enforcement helicopters. The trade-off for this seclusion was the echo of nature, with redwood trees seeming to engage in whispered conversations. The quietness also provided a serene backdrop for life far from city noise.
Self-Sufficiency: A Necessity for Mountain Living
Mountain living isn’t for everyone, but those who embrace it develop a unique set of skills and habits. Living in a forest environment demands a certain level of self-reliance. The author found it necessary to fix household issues and operate heavy power tools like a chainsaw and a gas-powered brush trimmer. The proximity of branches and small trees called for constant maintenance.
The storage of tools and supplies became a household must-have. The barn effectively served as a makeshift hardware store, with a variety of essential items always at hand. Remote access to a hardware store led to multiple trips, which was a significant inconvenience. For instance, repairs on the small tractor were conducted creatively with bailing wire, hose clamps, and rubber heating hoses.
Such necessity brought another perk: the author found a creative way to hide from his wife when she was on the “warpath,” a rather entertaining twist. Living off the grid required constant innovation and problem-solving.
Conclusion: A Life Well-Lived
Living in the mountains is not all about the struggles. It is a life rich with simplicity, quietude, and the beauty of nature. While the challenges of commuting, power outages, and mudslides test one’s endurance, the tranquility and sense of community that come with it make the journey worthwhile. For those with a penchant for self-sufficiency and a love for the rural life, mountain living offers a unique and fulfilling experience.
Article Keywords: mountain living, Silicon Valley, self-sufficiency, rural community, off-grid living