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Hike to the Petrified Forest in Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Explore The Outdoors / Explore The Parks / U.S. National Parks

Hike to the Petrified Forest in Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota has the third highest concentration of petrified wood in the United States. A friend who lived in Medora for awhile suggested my cousin, Susan, and I do this hike while we were there exploring the national park. Getting There:  The trailhead is on the western side of the … Continue reading

Visit the Ouray County Historical Museum to See Why It’s the “Best Little Museum in the West”
Explore Colorado

Visit the Ouray County Historical Museum to See Why It’s the “Best Little Museum in the West”

I will never underestimate a small town museum again after visiting the Ouray County Historical Musuem. When visiting small towns, I like to stop in their visitor center or museum because, more often than not, I learn some interesting nugget of history I didn’t know before. Usually these visits are less than 30 minutes. When … Continue reading

Climbing the Ouray Via Ferrata
Explore Colorado

Climbing the Ouray Via Ferrata

“Step out of your comfort zone, change begins at the end of your comfort zone” (Roy T. Bennett). “Be willing to be uncomfortable” (Peter McWilliams). “Do one thing everyday that scares you” (Eleanor Roosevelt). “Whatever makes you uncomfortable is your biggest opportunity for growth” (Bryan McGill). We’ve all heard these sayings and quotes when you … Continue reading

Cathedral Lake Hike Near Aspen, Colorado
Explore Colorado / Explore The Outdoors

Cathedral Lake Hike Near Aspen, Colorado

Cathedral Lake is an iconic wildflower hike in Colorado. But, be warned – it’s not easy. Forest Service rates it difficult and I agree, mainly because of a brutal switchback section. The effort is worth it to see wildflowers, waterfalls, stunning views of the Elk Mountain Range and a beautiful alpine lake. Cathedral Lake sits … Continue reading

How to Spend an Afternoon at Snow Canyon State Park in Greater Zion, Utah
Explore The Outdoors / Explore Utah

How to Spend an Afternoon at Snow Canyon State Park in Greater Zion, Utah

This 4,700-acre park might be southwestern Utah’s best kept secret.  I’ve heard people say if there weren’t so many national parks in Utah already, Snow Canyon would be one.  One afternoon in Snow Canyon State Park near St. George in Greater Zion, the southwest corner of Utah, and I could easily see why many would … Continue reading

Minimal but Mighty Hydration Pack: CamelBak Rogue Light
Go Gear / Outdoor Gear

Minimal but Mighty Hydration Pack: CamelBak Rogue Light

This is an ultra efficient hydration pack. It’s a small and sleek pack perfect for a road cycling, mountain biking or even short hiking adventure. I had been itching to try out the new CamelBak Rogue Light 70 ounce since I saw it at Big Gear Show in early August. This past weekend I gear … Continue reading

Shrine Ridge Trail: Hike off of I-70 on Vail Pass
Explore Colorado / Explore The Outdoors

Shrine Ridge Trail: Hike off of I-70 on Vail Pass

This is a hike known having tons of wildflowers. It’s been on my list for awhile and I finally did a solo hike to catch some of the last wildflowers before nature’s vibrant color palette turns to one of autumnal hues. This is a great solo hike, family hike or hiking with dogs. It was … Continue reading

You Need to Know to Travel Safely to Europe This Fall: Tips From Pre-departure Through Return From My Recent Trip to Italy
International Travel

You Need to Know to Travel Safely to Europe This Fall: Tips From Pre-departure Through Return From My Recent Trip to Italy

My recent trip to Italy was wonderful, but there are several things you need to know before traveling there or anywhere in the European Union. My biggest tips are do your due diligence before trip and be kind traveling and during trip.  Know the requirements for the European country you’re going to ahead of time. … Continue reading