Explore the Blog
Arizona Trail Gear List 2022 (almost ultralight)
In this post, learn about all the ultralight backpacking gear I took with me on the Arizona Trail in fall 2022.
Pacific Crest Trail 2022 Final Gear List (almost ultralight, 10.97 lbs)
Check out this post to discover all the ultralight backpacking gear I relied on during my 2022 Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) thru-hike, complete with a comprehensive packing list.
Pacific Crest Trail Gear List (lightweight, 11.6 lbs)
In this post, explore all the backpacking gear I'll be starting my Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) thru-hike with, including a comprehensive packing list.
John Muir Trail Gear List (lightweight)
In this post, learn about all the backpacking gear I took with me on my thru-hike of the John Muir Trail (JMT), complete with a detailed packing list.
10 Best Winter Hikes Near Denver, Colorado
Here are some of my absolute favorite and best winter hikes in Colorado! Winter anywhere can be a hard season to get through due to shorter days of light, but I always find winters better when I spend more time outside.
John Muir Trail (JMT) Permit Guide for 2026: How to Get a Permit
Want to get John Muir Trail (JMT) permits for 2026? This guide is for you! In this post, I’ll walk you through all the permit application options and logistics so you know what you need to do in order to score a John Muir Trail Permit for the 2026 hiking season, including how to get both a southbound or northbound JMT permit.
25 Affordable Gifts for Hikers, Backpackers, and Outdoors Lovers
Whether you are not looking to splurge on gifts this holiday season or you are looking for some stocking stuffers for your outdoorsy family and friends, this list of 25 affordable gifts for hikers, backpackers, and outdoors lovers is for you!
What’s in My Camera Bag?
In this post, learn about all the photography gear I use as a travel and landscape photographer. I get asked a lot about what my camera setup is, so I’ve compiled all that information in this post to share with you along with some other recommendations!
Glacier National Park: Guide to the West Side
Often referred to as the “Crown of the Continent”, Glacier National Park has magnificent mountains, stunning turquoise lakes, glacier-carved terrain, and abundant wildlife. In this post, I’ll be sharing information specific to the west side of Glacier National Park, which offers an abundance of activities and beautiful sights.
How to Start Solo Traveling
One of the topics I get asked most about is solo travel. Solo traveling as a woman can be intimidating, but it is also one of the most empowering experiences. Here, I’ll give you a few tips on how to start traveling by yourself and hopefully inspire you to go on your own solo adventure.
Backpacking Isle Royale National Park
In June 2019, I visited my 27th National Park: Isle Royale National Park. This post includes tips on planning your own Isle Royale trip, what gear to bring, and my experience backpacking the beautiful and rugged Isle Royale National Park.
Amtrak’s Southwest Chief: Chicago to Flagstaff & 5 Days Solo in Arizona
In October 2016, I jumped on an Amtrak train all by myself, traveling from Chicago, IL to Flagstaff, AZ. In this blog post, read about my journey venturing the Southwest, with stops at the Grand Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, and more!

