Hiking The Bright Angel Trail In Grand Canyon

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Plateau Point in Grand Canyon

Hiking in the Grand Canyon is not easy, but if you’re dead set on checking this off your bucket list, you might want to start by hiking the Bright Angel Trail. After all, it is considered one of the safest and best trails in all of Grand Canyon National Park! My plan was exactly that…to hike from the South Rim down to Indian Gardens and back. However, in this land of extremes I would wind up getting more than I bargained for. Here is my experience and some important tips on how you too can successfully complete this trail and make it back alive!

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Backpacking In Channel Islands National Park

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Backpacking on Santa Cruz Island

The Channel Islands have always been a bit of a mystery to me. I’m aware it’s a popular destination for kayakers going on sea cave adventures, but that’s really all I knew about this remote National Park. When I had been invited by a coworker to go on an overnight backpacking trip to Santa Cruz Island, I jumped at the chance. Not only would I be able to practice backpacking, something I haven’t done nearly enough of, but I would finally get to explore the islands off the coast of California that have for so long filled me with curiosity and wonder.

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The Secret Treasures Of Crystal Cove State Park

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Crystal Cove State Park

You might not be aware that there exists a pristine stretch of Southern California coastline whose clear offshore waters have been designated as a Marine Conservation area. The mysterious location I’m referring to is Crystal Cove State Park in Orange County, California. Nestled in between the more popular beaches of Laguna and Newport, it’s easy to miss this rugged piece of land and sea. I’m a native of Southern California and even I am guilty of bypassing this beach. It was only recently that I visited this state park which consists of 3.2 miles of beach and 2400 acres of undeveloped woodlands. On my first real trip to Crystal Cove State Park, I realized just what a gem of coastal beauty it is. I was so excited to finally discover the many ways to enjoy both the beach and the backcountry of Crystal Cove.

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Two Countries, One Island: Exploring St. Maarten

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St Maarten

Are you ready to walk along the white sandy beaches of a Caribbean island? Then let me introduce you to the island of St. Maarten. But first, let’s get one thing straight. This island has not one but TWO names and there is a very good reason for that. This tiny island is divided between two countries, France to the north and the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the south. On the French side, the island is called Saint Martin and on the Dutch side, it is called Sint Maarten. For simplicity’s sake, I’m going to refer to it as St. Maarten. Each side has it’s own unique feel but together they make one incredible island. From the casinos, shopping, and nightlife on the Dutch side to the French Caribbean cuisine and nude beaches on the French side, this island has a lot to offer. Now that I’ve sparked your interest, come along for some incredible Caribbean fun!

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Exploring The Dunes And Canyons Of Death Valley

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Sand Dunes of Death Valley

Welcome to part two of our two-day visit in Death Valley, CA. There was so much for us to do and we only had one full day left so we set out early to try to squeeze in as many activities as possible before the sun retreated. We began by visiting a slot canyon a few hours north of Furnace Creek. While driving by, we saw vast yellow sand dunes and decided to explore those next. Finally we planned on driving south on Badwater Road to attempt a 2.5 mile roundtrip hike through ridiculously colored badlands. We packed our backpacks, grabbed as much water as we could carry and headed out.

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The Geological Wonders Of Death Valley

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Death Valley Badwater Basin

When a friend recommended I should take a trip to Death Valley National Park, I was like eh…ok sure. Not really enthused and with low expectations, my crew of adventurers and I traveled to what I thought would be a barren and desolate location for the weekend. Instead I was amazed at how alive and colorful the desert can be. There is so much scenic landscape to explore, so many trails to hike, so much history to learn and an unending amount of photographic opportunities.

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Hiking The Majestic Yosemite Falls

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Hike To Yosemite Falls

Some people think if you’ve seen one waterfall, you’ve seen them all. Well I beg to differ. If you’ve had the pleasure of witnessing the majesty of Yosemite Falls in Yosemite National Park, then you know what I’m talking about. At 2,425 feet in elevation, Yosemite Falls is the tallest waterfall in North America. And it is awesome! The power of the falls can be felt from the trail at the base where most people can take gorgeous pictures. However, if your feeling adventurous, you can hike to the very top of the falls! That’s what we did on a couple of occasions, once when the waterfall was flowing strong and another time when the waterfall was bone dry. I’ll describe both of those experiences for you and show you some pointers so you can reach the top too!

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Getting Vertical Hiking Angels Landing In Zion National Park

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Angels Landing in Zion NP

WHOA! If you wind up hiking Angels Landing in Zion National Park, I guarantee you will repeat this phrase more than once. And I’ll tell you why. Because Angels Landing has some of the most amazing and mind-blowing drop-offs on both sides of the trail up to the summit. How steep is it? Let’s just say this is NOT a hike for anyone with a fear of heights. If you look over the edge you might get a touch of vertigo. Than what the heck was I doing hiking it? I have a slight fear of heights, but my curiosity for new hiking experiences will usually trump my fears. Angels Landing is one of the best trails in the US and one of the most adventurous hikes in Zion National Park and I did not want to miss out.

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Boulder Scrambling in Joshua Tree National Park

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Boulder scrambling in Joshua Tree

Boulders! Lots and lots of boulders. Huge round sandstone objects that come in endless interesting shapes and sizes. Some are small and some are gigantic. They come in all shades of colors like red, pink, grey and even yellow. Some are stacked one on top of another and some sit quietly by themselves. Where oh where could one find a place with boulders like this? In Joshua Tree National Park that’s where you’ll find them. Oh and the best thing is that you can climb all over them to your hearts content! Just like a little kid on a playground gym. Under, over, around and through! Come with me, I’ll show you.

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