Stories from the trail
My love for hiking was sparked in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, a wild land of ancient mountains and hidden waterfalls against the backdrop of Gitchee Gumee. When we moved to Arizona in 2014 my flatland strolls were challenged by a harsh, dry landscape, and I’ve grown to enjoy the hot temperatures, rugged lands, and incredible variety that this state holds. Sometimes I hike with friends or family, tho I prefer solo adventures in the Superstition, Mazatzal, Sierra Ancha, and Galiuro Wildernesses, and sometimes dip into the Grand Canyon.
all downhill from here
- LatestCypress Ridge LoopThere is a hike in the Mazatzal Wilderness that has captured my imagination for years, dating back to when I was busy hiking those trails regularly. It didn’t help that the author of the guide on HikeAZ led with a “you should …
- Rogers Canyon Family OvernightThe winter and spring of 2022 had been quite busy for both the kids and me. Their little legs were taxed …
- Escalante RouteSome hikes in the Grand Canyon are simply iconic. Every trail and view is special, sure… natural wonder …
- Bright Angel / Tonto / HermitCold, brisk air wrapped around me as I stepped out of my car near the Grand Canyon’s Backcountry Office. …
- Tortilla LoopA gentle rain pattered down on my windshield during the last few miles of the drive. Unexpected, though not …
- Grandview / Tonto / New HanceA welcome trickle of light brought my surroundings into a soft fade, and I paused my forward shuffle long …
- Flatiron with the KidsFlatiron, the classic Superstition Wilderness hike that challenges tens of thousands of hikers every year, is …
- Icy Hike along Miners Needle LoopIn early 2022, during a particularly wet and cold winter, I took all three kids out to Peralta Trailhead for a …
- Bringing Back the Sandy Saddle TrailA short distance into the Mazatzal Wilderness is an overlooked trail, a shortcut from Barnhardt Trail to Horse …
Featured series
Across the MazatzalsA four-day Labor Day loop that turned into a semi-emergency exit down Davenport Trail.
4 parts