Petra
Exploring Walnut Creek Park in Albemarle County, Virginia
If you’re looking for a solid outdoor spot close to Charlottesville, Walnut Creek Park is one of those places that has something for just about everyone. I’ve been there a few times when Skyline Drive or the Blue Ridge Parkway were closed for the season, and it’s a great alternative when you still want to…
Riprap Trail via Wildcat Ridge: A December Hike with a Surprise Encounter
Riprap is one of those fan-favorite trails around here, and for the last few weeks, I’ve been toying with the idea of finally checking it off my list. The only thing that held me back was the thought of water crossings in December. Cold, soggy socks are not high on my list of winter joys….
Hiking Goals for 2024: Creating My Next Adventure
I’ve been thinking a lot about my hiking goals for 2024. For me, having direction helps keep me focused and gives me something to look forward to. When I started hiking back in early 2023, I wasn’t chasing a milestone, I just knew I needed something that would support my well-being, both physically and mentally….
Revisiting Blackrock Summit with Zina
I first came across Blackrock Summit on a previous hike and knew I wanted to come back from a different direction. Since my dog Zina isn’t quite ready for longer, more strenuous hikes just yet, this trail felt like the perfect choice. It’s short, easy to follow, and still gives you that rewarding feeling of…
Camping by the Ocean: Huntington Beach State Park
I love camping in the mountains. There’s something about the trees, the cool air, and the quiet that grounds me. But this year, our annual friends trip took us somewhere a little different, camping at the beach. And while we couldn’t see the ocean from our site, we could hear it. The sound of waves…
Hiking Humpback Rocks in Virginia
Humpback Rocks is one of those trails that draws a crowd, and for good reason. I decided to hike it early on a Thursday morning, hoping to beat the rush. Even during the week, it gets busy, so if you’re thinking about doing this one, get there early. Trail Overview This trail is located right…
Hiking the Dobie Mountain Trail via the Appalachian Trail
Dobie Mountain Trail is a solid hike if you’re looking for something that offers variety, a bit of history, and a peaceful escape into the woods. Just a heads-up, though, if you’re planning to go on a weekend or a holiday, parking will be tough. The lot fills up fast, mostly with folks heading to…
Hiking Hanging Rock State Park: A Weekend of Love and Adventure
This past weekend, I had the absolute honor of being part of a dear friend’s wedding vow renewal, and while I was there, I also got to conquer some new heights in North Carolina. What made it even more special was that they chose Hanging Rock State Park for their ceremony. That gave me the…
Leave No Trace: Hiking with Respect
Leave No Trace might sound like a simple idea, but it’s often overlooked. I’ve been on trails where everything looked untouched and beautiful, and I’ve also come across spots littered with wrappers, broken gear, and even full trash bags left behind. The truth is, when you leave trash behind, it does more than ruin the…
What I Pack for Snacks on a Full-Day Hike
Whenever I’m planning a long hike—something in the 9 to 11 mile range—I start thinking about snacks and hydration well before I hit the trail. Whether I’m heading up a tough mountain or just enjoying a peaceful day in the woods, making sure I’ve got what I need keeps the day enjoyable. Let’s start with…
Hiking the Doyles River Loop in Shenandoah
I recently hiked the Doyles River Loop via the Appalachian Trail, and it might just be one of my favorite trails in Shenandoah National Park. This 7.5-mile loop winds through quiet forest, runs alongside streams, and brings you up close to some truly beautiful waterfalls. Trail Overview The trail is considered moderate, but there are…
Why I Hike Solo (And What I’ve Learned About It)
I hike solo and have been sharing my adventures on social media, and I’ve gotten a few comments lately. So I figured I’d talk about it here. Maybe it’s because I grew up in foster care, but I’ve always had this tendency to just go for things. Over time, I’ve learned that when you let…