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Spaces & Places

More Lakes and a Little Bit of History

  • September 27, 2020

I eased my tired feet into crystal-clear water, appreciating the perfect temperature for soothing blisters. I had made sure to break-in my new hiking boots before the trip, but the sheer number of miles I’d been hiking had left a mark.

It was a bright sunny day with a just-right breeze blowing in from the … Read more

Spaces & Places

Geological Fascination

  • August 22, 2020

I squinted my eyes, regretting leaving my sunglasses in the car. It was early (6 am?), and the sun was just starting to creep up behind the geological fascination in front of me. Right now, it was clouded in shadows, so I was eagerly awaiting a better glimpse of the tell-tale pillars caused from the … Read more

47 Parks

Sub-Alpine Attitude

  • August 15, 2020August 12, 2020

There’s something special about a serene river surrounded by an immense meadow, surrounded by blue-gray mountains. Like Russian nesting dolls, the intricate scenery just keeps going. I was above 8,000 feet, in an area of Yosemite known as Tuolumne (too-all-uh-me) Meadows. It was an absolutely beautiful place, unlike anything I had yet seen … Read more

47 Parks

Yosemite in all its Glory: Part I

  • August 7, 2020August 7, 2020

“Thousands of tired, nerve-shaken, over-civilized people are beginning to find out that going to the mountains is going home; that wildness is a necessity” – John Muir

There’s a reason Yosemite is such a well-known national park: its mountains are unequivocal and its waterfalls are unparalleled. Furthermore, during the country’s most important camping trip, … Read more

47 Parks

Kings Canyon Satisfaction

  • August 3, 2020

In April 2017 on a rainy day, I visited Kings Canyon National Park. I remember the overcast skies, the mystical feel of the huge sequoias, and the feeling of disappointment at road closures. That spring had been a record snow fall in the mountains, and only the very entrance of the park was accessible. … Read more

47 Parks

Hume Lake: A Mountain-Beach Fusion

  • July 30, 2020July 27, 2020

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

Escape to the Sierras

  • July 27, 2020

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

Guest Post by Anna (an appreciator of place)

  • May 16, 2020

Anna and I grew up together. We spent a good chunk of our childhood climbing trees, exploring nearby fields and woods, and running around in nature. Although currently separated by miles (and a border), Anna and I regularly enjoy telling each other about recent outdoor adventures. This is her story.

Being in nature has changed … Read more

Spaces & Places

Rockin’ It in Red Rock Canyon

  • April 19, 2019April 19, 2019

Mountains are my favorite.

Having cruised all around the United States, exploring forests, deserts, and coastlines, I can wholeheartedly endorse mountains as the top-tier landmark. Sure, I recognize this as purely an opinion, but having spent a significant amount of time in the mountains, I am convinced that they are special places full of life, … Read more

Mexico

Baja Cove Mexico Recap

  • November 26, 2017March 12, 2019

Length of Stay:

  • 5 days, 4 nights

Highs:

  • Gorgeous weather
  • Kayaking in the ocean with a sea lion

Lows:

  • Airports during holiday travel

Favorite Treat:

  • Tacos! My favorite was the shrimp, although the Mako shark was also tasty.
… Read more

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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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