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Spaces & Places

First Backpacking Trip with My Yorkie-Poo: A Night on…

  • March 30, 2025

Some adventures are measured in miles, like my epic 6-day wilderness trek on Rae Lakes Loop last June (~ 58 miles).

Other adventures are gentler on the body and measured more in moments, such as my puppy’s first backpacking trip.

With my pack snug on my back and my 8-month-old Yorkie-Poo bouncing at my heels, … Read more

Spaces & Places

Hiking La Chorrera

  • January 18, 2025March 2, 2025

Spending only a few days in Bogotá, Colombia, I had to be selective about how I prioritized my time. In such a large city, there were a seemingly unendless number of activities to occupy a traveler such as myself, but I decided, on the last day, to go beyond Bogotá’s bustling streets. About 16 miles … Read more

Spaces & Places

The Depths of Zipaquirá

  • December 29, 2024March 2, 2025

This past Thanksgiving, I spent four incredible days in Bogotá, trading turkey dinners for empanadas and exploring the vibrant heart of Colombia. The bustling streets of La Candelaria captivated me with its blend of culture, history, and modern energy.

On one of my travel days, I ventured beyond the city to Zipaquirá, home to the … Read more

Spaces & Places

A Journey of Change and Stability: Scotland Study Abroad

  • September 22, 2024March 9, 2025

I stood at the edge of the Highlands, the wind whipping about as I looked out over the rolling hills. Behind me, a group of students stood wide-eyed, taking in the rugged beauty of Scotland. This wasn’t just any study abroad trip—it was an immersive, place-based learning experience that would challenge both me and the … Read more

Spaces & Places

Rae Lakes Loop Via Kearsarge Pass

  • July 10, 2024March 16, 2025

Ever since I first encountered the Sierra Nevada Mountains during my National Park trip in 2016, they have held a special place in my heart. These mountains are extraordinary and boast some phenomenal hikes with vistas that are unparalleled throughout the country.

In 2020 I ventured back to the Sierras for some more backpacking and … Read more

Spaces & Places

Waterfalls Galore! A Ranking of Iceland’s Falling H2O

  • June 21, 2024

Last summer I was surprised at the number of waterfalls I came across both in the Scottish Highlands as well as in the Swiss Alps. Nothing quite compares to Iceland, however, regarding the sheer beauty of the many waterfalls found strewn throughout the country. Due to the unique geology and plethora of glaciers, Iceland … Read more

Spaces & Places

The Crystal Clear Waters of Silfra

  • June 16, 2024June 16, 2024

Tucked into the center of Iceland’s Þingvellir [Thingvellir] National Park, Silfra is a rift in the divergent mid-Atlantic tectonic plate that is fed by glacier melt year-round. The fissure offers an unparalleled snorkeling experience for adventurers willing to brave the 35°F water. It’s a surreal underwater landscape; the clarity of the water creates a sense … Read more

Spaces & Places

Boating Amongst Glaciers: Discovering the Magic of Jökulsárlón

  • June 11, 2024June 16, 2024

Iceland in May has gorgeously long days, the sun barely setting before it peeks back over the horizon. One evening, I took advantage of this phenomenon, beginning a glacier boat adventure around dinner time while the Arctic summer sun was still high in the sky.

My first impression of the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon was simply … Read more

Spaces & Places

Katla Glacier Cave: A Journey Into Iceland’s Icy Heart

  • June 5, 2024June 16, 2024

Nestled within the stark, untamed wilderness of southern Iceland lies a realm where nature reveals one of its most enchanting masterpieces: the Katla Glacier Cave. This is a mesmerizing labyrinth of ice, which beckoned me into a world of shimmering blue-white hues sprinkled with volcanic black sand. Think: Intricate ice formations and an ethereal silence … Read more

Spaces & Places

7-Days of Bliss in Southern Iceland

  • May 26, 2024

The Ultimate 7-Day Southern Iceland Itinerary

Iceland, the land of fire and ice, offers unimaginable opportunities for adventure with its stunning landscapes, geothermal wonders, and unique culture. This small(ish) island in the North Atlantic Ocean has been on my bucket list for almost eight years, capturing my attention even before I embarked on my 47 … Read more

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Spaces & Places

Visiting all of America’s national parks was just the beginning! My exploration of natural spaces and wild places continues as my journey expands to areas around the world. Read about my travels near and far and the nature-based wonders I discover.

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About Me

About Me

National park expert. Nature enthusiast. Outdoor educator. These are the chronicles of my travels and discoveries around the country and throughout the world.

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