For backpacking, bringing ‘just the essentials’ can feel like a ton (especially if it’s your first time or you’re not using the most-lightweight stuff money can buy), and every single ounce counts. So why would I advocate bringing luxury items? Because you’ve earned it! Lugging your own gear over miles should be celebrated–and here’s how […]
Urban Hikes Washington & Meadowdale Beach Park
As I’ve said before, I love urban hikes. They are accessible year-round and some are a great way to keep in hiking shape year-round! So imagine my delight to learn Beers at the Bottom have a new hiking book out all on urban hikes in Washington!
Saturday, in the (National) Park, Think it was the 4th of July
After knocking out ten hikes in first nine weeks of the year, COVID hit, and I started putting in 50-60+ hour workweeks and hiking trails shut down. Even as they re-opened, fear of crowding on trails or overwhelming small towns would have stopped me even if my schedule had time for hiking. But finally, I […]
A Quick Trip to Saguaro National Park: Part 2
My early March trip to Tucson feels like it was ages ago. Pre-social distancing, I had planned a quick trip to Tuscon, and weeks ago I wrote about part one. It’s finally time for part two!
Lighten Your Load!
Remember seven weeks ago when I said “tune in next week for a post about lightening your load while backpacking? Well, better late than never.
Social Distancing is Calling–and I Must Stay Home
I had plans on posting Part 2 of hikes in Saguaro National Park, but in light of everything, I wanted to share my thoughts on the historical times we are living in, and some tips.
Tucson Breweries: Downtown
After exploring the western Tuscon Mountain District of Saguaro National Park, what to do but wet my whistle at a local brewery?!
A Quick Trip to Saguaro National Park: Part 1
When I ask you to think of a cactus, what comes to mind? For some, succulents. For others, maybe a prickly pear margarita. But to most, what comes to mind is the iconic Saguaro.
Off-Season Conditioning
If you have any big hikes or summits planned for this summer, keeping your body in hiking shape through winter can be tough! Here’s some tips that help me.
Bluebird Day at Skyline Lake
I am a woman about simple pleasures. Dunking bread into soup. Pedicures. And bluebird days in the snow. Ain’t life grand?