Hiking
Spring Hiking Essentials for Solo Adventures in Central Virginia
Spring’s rolling in, and you can bet I’m grabbing my pack and hitting the trail. Central Virginia has no shortage of beautiful hikes, but if you’re heading out solo (like I often do), a little prep goes a long way. There’s a big difference between heading out for a peaceful hike… and getting caught with…
Crabtree Falls Trail: A Winter Hike Worth the Climb
If you’re in Central Virginia and looking for a rewarding hike with killer views (and a few solid leg workouts), Crabtree Falls is one of those spots that makes you stop and just breathe it all in. With the tallest cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi, it’s not hard to see why this trail is…
Get the Most Out of Your Hiking and Camping Gear
Because Nothing Ruins a Trip Like a Busted Air Mattress (Ask Me How I Know) So you’re ready to hit the trail. Backpack’s loaded, boots laced, excitement dialed up. You’ve got your favorite snack bars packed and a trail playlist humming in the back of your mind. But before you disappear into the woods or…
Hiking the Austin Mountain and Furnace Mountain Loop
This trail had been on my mind for a while, and after checking the weather and feeling ready for a challenge, I decided to take on the Austin Mountain and Furnace Mountain Loop. It’s a 9-mile loop that winds through some seriously beautiful forest, includes a good bit of elevation, and gives you a little…
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…
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….
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…
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…
How I Prep for a Full-Day Hike
Hiking is one of my favorite ways to get outside, move my body, and clear my head. But let’s be honest, a good day on the trail takes more than just grabbing your boots and heading out the door. If you want to enjoy the adventure and stay safe doing it, preparation matters. Here’s how…
Why I Keep Coming Back to the Saunders-Monticello Trail
If you’ve ever felt like the world was just a bit too much, a walk in the woods can work wonders, and if you’re near Charlottesville, the Saunders-Monticello Trail at Kemper Park is a gem worth lacing up for. Just a few miles from Monticello (yes, that Monticello), this trail offers a beautiful escape into…
Why I’ve Been Choosing Hiking Lately
I don’t know about you, but lately life’s felt loud. Too many tabs open and not enough room for stillness. So I’ve traded my trail runs for hikes these past few weeks. Slower. More intentional. And honestly? More aligned with what I need right now. And let’s be real, hiking isn’t just “a nice walk…