My Must-Have Backpacking Gear

Backpacking gear changes over time. You’ll need slightly different things with the changing seasons and learn that you prefer certain clothing or items over others. There are things to love and rave about your gear, and things you second guess bringing. I have narrowed down my packing list from an over-packer, to outdoor minimalist. Here […]

Backpacking the Four Lakes and Siligo Peak Loop

Four Lakes & Siligo Peak Loop AllTrails Stats: 18.4 miles || Elevation Gain: 5997ft || Loop Driving through Redding, we stopped at Weaverville Ranger Station on our way to the trail for a permit. It was about 2 hours south of where we had camped the previous night. The 53-mile distance as-the-crow-flies looked much shorter […]

A Local’s Guide to Santa Cruz, California

The real Surf City, USA. A notable stop on the famous Highway 1 that has morphed into a bustling haven of college students, surf bums, and local hippies. Its been the nesting grounds of several Silicon Valley start-ups, the surfing powerhouse O’Neill, and recognizable Santa Cruz Skateboards. The city is a locally-made oasis for artists […]

Where to Go on an Eastern Sierras Road Trip

The Sierra Mountains is home to thousands of gems. Its jagged landscape, alpine lakes, trails, and peaks have inspired many to continue to come back and explore deeper. The National Parks of Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Yosemite are located here, as well as a 390 mile stretch of the Pacific Crest Trail.

A Weekend in Death Valley

My first trip to Death Valley was in the spring of 2019. This park far-exceed my expectations and I honestly believe it to be one of the most underrated parks in America. The diversity alone of this park is incredible, but before going here I knew virtually nothing about it. The neighboring parks of Joshua Tree, Sequoia […]