So many ideas – and all of them sound good. I'm in the middle of checking them out against various maps and guide books.

My better half is making a strong play for Yosemite but I take the point about the waterfalls in August. I'd like to see the Redwoods but that might be a bit far. The idea of gliding with condors sounds wonderful. That combined with the wine train puts the Napa valley high on the list.

There's still plenty of time to change our ides but it looks as if we would be heading north rather than south.

Thanks for all your suggestions. I'll keep watching in case any other good ideas come to light.

DC