hiking trails
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…
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…
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…
Three Ridges Trail: A Big Challenge and a Beautiful Payoff
I’m someone who likes to push myself, and hiking the Three Ridges Trail off the Blue Ridge Parkway was a real test, in the best way. At 13.86 miles, it’s no small feat, especially when you decide (like I did) to do the whole thing in one day. This trail is known for its rugged…
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…