Today we’d like to introduce you to Sadie Krueger.
Sadie, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’m a third-generation Northern California local, born and raised in Redding, with deep family roots in Shasta County. Growing up surrounded by mountains, rivers, lakes, and incredible natural beauty, I developed an appreciation for the outdoors and the stories that make our region so special.
My professional journey has taken me in several directions, but a common thread has always been connecting people, building community, and creating meaningful experiences. I’ve spent much of my career in culinary arts, hospitality, education, and leadership, including serving as a Director of Nutrition Services in healthcare. Today, I teach culinary arts and help young people develop real-world skills, confidence, and opportunities for their futures.
But somewhere along the way, I realized how important it was to make time for the things that truly bring me joy: exploring, discovering new places, connecting with nature, and sharing those experiences with others.
That’s how NorCal Trails & Tales began.
What started as a personal passion for hiking, exploring hidden gems, and documenting my adventures has grown into a platform where I share Northern California’s trails, waterfalls, historic places, small towns, and natural wonders. I love finding the stories behind the places we visit, whether it’s an old mining community, a forgotten trail, or a beautiful waterfall tucked away in the mountains.
I also serve on the board of Horsetown-Clear Creek Preserve, where I’m able to combine my love of nature, local history, conservation, and community involvement.
One of my favorite sayings is “Nature Therapy — No Appointment Needed.” I truly believe that getting outside, slowing down, and reconnecting with the natural world can change your perspective.
At this stage in my life, I’m embracing curiosity, creativity, and new adventures. I’m learning that you don’t have to have everything figured out to start something meaningful. Sometimes you just have to follow what makes you feel alive.
My hope is that through Trails & Tales, I can inspire others to get outside, explore somewhere new, appreciate the beauty around them, and discover that adventure doesn’t always require traveling far from home.
And for me, this is just the beginning.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t always been a smooth road, but I believe some of life’s greatest lessons come from the challenges we face.
Throughout my career, I’ve held leadership positions, managed teams, developed programs, and dedicated much of my life to helping others succeed. One of my biggest challenges has been learning how to balance giving so much of myself to my career and community while still making time for my own dream’s.
I’ve experienced professional setbacks, changes in leadership, and moments when I questioned whether I was on the right path. Reinventing yourself isn’t always easy, especially when you’ve spent years building a successful career. But I’ve learned that sometimes the unexpected turns lead you exactly where you’re supposed to be.
Starting NorCal Trails & Tales has been another journey of growth. Putting myself out there, learning social media, building a brand, and sharing my love for Northern California have pushed me outside my comfort zone in the best possible way.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that success isn’t always about a title, a paycheck, or what others expect of you. Sometimes success is having the courage to create a life that feels meaningful, authentic, and connected to what you love
I’m still learning, still growing, and still discovering new possibilities. And I think that’s one of the most beautiful parts of the journey
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My professional journey has been a blend of leadership, education, entrepreneurship, and creativity, but the common thread has always been my passion for people, community, and making a positive impact.
I have an extensive background in culinary arts and leadership, including managing food and nutrition services in healthcare. Today, I’m a culinary instructor at Shasta College and California Heritage YouthBuild Academy, where I help students develop culinary skills, confidence, and real-world experience. One of the most rewarding parts of my career is watching young people discover abilities they didn’t know they had.
I’m also involved with Weather NorCal, a local weather and media business founded by my husband, Mike. As Vice President, I contribute to the business and its community connections. It’s another opportunity to combine my love of Northern California with communication, creativity, and community engagement.
My personal creative passion is NorCal Trails & Tales, a platform I created to showcase the natural beauty, history, hidden gems, and outdoor adventures of Northern California.
As a third-generation Redding local, I have a deep connection to this region. Through photography, video, and storytelling, I take people along with me to explore waterfalls, hiking trails, historic landmarks, and places they might otherwise never discover.
What began as a personal passion has grown into a community of people who appreciate nature, exploration, and the stories that make each destination special.
What I’m most proud of is that I’ve found a way to bring together so many parts of who I am: an educator, a leader, a creative storyteller, and someone who genuinely loves her community.
What sets me apart is my desire to go beyond simply showing people beautiful places. I want to share their history, create meaningful connections, and inspire people to explore the world around them.
My philosophy is simple: Nature Therapy — No Appointment Needed. Sometimes the most meaningful experiences are waiting just outside our doors.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
One thing I would love readers to know is how deeply connected I am to Northern California. As a third-generation local, this area is more than just where I live—it’s part of who I am.
Whether I’m teaching the next generation of culinary professionals, supporting community organizations like Horsetown-Clear Creek Preserve, working alongside my husband with Weather NorCal, or exploring hidden gems through NorCal Trails & Tales, my passion has always been bringing people together and making a positive impact.
I’ve learned that life isn’t about following one path. It’s about continuing to grow, embracing new opportunities, and finding purpose in the things that bring you joy.
My hope is to inspire others to get outside, explore their own communities, appreciate the beauty around them, and remember that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself or follow a new passion.
You can learn more about my work, local adventures, and Northern California discoveries at Norcaltrailsandtales.com.
**Nature Therapy—No Appointment Needed”
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Norcaltrailsandtailes.com
- Instagram: Norcaltrailsandtales
- Facebook: Nocaltrailsandtales
- Youtube: Nocaltrailsandtales
