47 Parks
I enjoy the mountains – the sharp majestic peaks or the gentler rounded ranges that go on as far as the eye can see.
I enjoy the beach – the sand between my toes, the cool water on summer days, and the accepted laziness that comes along with it.
During my last-minute trip into the … Read more
47 Parks
By the middle of June, Virginia’s humidity levels typically reach legendary proportions. This year was no different: sweat doesn’t evaporate, plants hang limply, and dishes washed by hand take days to try.
A slight exaggeration? Perhaps.
But it was during this mid-June slump in which I envisioned the hot, moist summer stretching out lazily before … Read more
Spaces & Places
I hefted my pack up onto my shoulders, tightening the straps and cinching the waist loop. It was heavy, but still less weight than I’m accustomed to carrying while trad climbing. Inside this relatively small pack, I had managed to cram a sleeping bag, bed pad, inflatable pillow, tarp, sweater, and a small assortment of … Read more
47 Parks
Spaces & Places
It’s spring. This means warmer weather, pretty blossoms, and yes, allergies. It’s also Spring Break, which means a week of no schedules and a relatively minor amount of responsibilities. The past two years, I have had the privilege of gallivanting around the country on various climbing trips during this season. I appreciated the dry 60° … Read more
47 Parks
Each of our country’s national parks are different, special snowflakes surrounded by the varied landscape of our nation. Despite each park’s uniqueness, I found that I still had similar experiences during my epic road trip when I visited each one. As a young, healthy outdoorsy gal, I was able to dive right in to nature, … 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
I had cruised through Croatia, exploring the coast, waterfalls, and rocky outcrops that has rendered this country so spectacular.
I had skipped up into Italy to explore the Dolomites, investigating numerous areas within this magnificent region.
Now it was time for Slovenia.
Although not originally part of my trip itinerary, I discovered that it was … Read more
Spaces & Places
Like peanut butter and jelly or macaroni and cheese, some things are simply meant to be together.
Enter: lakes and mountains.
Throughout my national park travels, I have been privileged to experience some incredible lakes – soft and shimmering in their placidity, juxtaposed against the hard edges of a mountainous backdrop. It’s phenomenal, and creates … Read more
Spaces & Places
Sorting out the various regions of the Italian Dolomites was somewhat confusing. I wanted to discover which hikes and viewpoints would be the best to visit. I also sought to maximize my time in this glorious, wild place. The internet was helpful, but I was a little frustrated that there weren’t clear maps like I … Read more