Spaces & Places
I pulled into the empty trailhead parking lot, surprised to see no other cars around. It was overcast and damp, the air heavy with the promise of rain. A perfect day for adventure! Perhaps I’d have the whole park to myself for a spell?
I took a deep breath as I headed up the trail. … Read more
Spaces & Places
In the spirit of gratitude, I decided to take advantage of the Thanksgiving season by embarking on a road trip around my own state, appreciating its spectacular array of parks. Virginia State Parks have won various accolades and awards for customer service, overall quality, and just being darn good nature places.
*Round of applause*
I … Read more
47 Parks
Old Rag: the iconic mountain nestled on the eastern outskirts of Shenandoah National Park. There are literally hundreds of blog posts about this popular and slightly dangerous hike – a trek laden with switchbacks, rock scrambles, and incredible panoramic views. Why add another voice into the interweb’s blend of tips, tricks, and opinions about Old … Read more
47 Parks
Returning to a favorite national park feels like coming home.
I drove only a few miles into the Smokies and was met with waves of nostalgia. I remember that trailhead! That huge majestic willow tree looks familiar!
My last visit to the park had involved multiple adventures over the course of a week. I trekked … Read more
Spaces & Places
Starting off with Earth Day (April 22), this past week offered a chance to celebrate our beautiful planet and appreciate all of the wonderful natural places in our world. It’s also a great reminder to care for our Earth and an opportunity to raise environmental awareness both within the United States and abroad.
Since I … Read more
47 Parks
Hiking is so much better without the crowds…
…and when running water is involved.
A recent Shenandoah hike, Whiteoak Canyon, was the perfect trail to start the New Year. No resolution needed, simply a desire to get outside and check out some nearby wilderness that I hadn’t experienced during my previous foray into the park.… Read more
47 Parks
It was cold and crisp. I could see my breath wafting into the atmosphere as I stood and relished the sight. The hand warmers in my mittens were keeping my fingers nice and toasty, my wool socks protecting my toes from the sub-freezing temperatures. I scanned the horizon, noting astute differences from when I was … Read more
Rock Climbing
The weather cools down and the leaves crisp up, signaling that autumn is moving in with a vengeance. This time of year is a melange of outdoor senses, an awakening of newness despite the cycle of death urged on by winter’s approach.
It’s also prime climbing season.
With a friend who knows how to fly, … Read more
Education
A teacher lies in a field.
A host of colorful rain jackets litter the grass like petals.
Students join the adventure,
Backs to dirt, watching raindrops cascade down from a gray sky.
I enjoy being an educator, but there are some days where I simply love my job and the opportunities it affords to … Read more
Rock Climbing
Length of Stay:
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Lows:
Favorite Climb:
Favorite Treat: