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
- LatestRogers Canyon Family OvernightThe winter and spring of 2022 had been quite busy for both the kids and me. Their little legs were taxed heavily on difficult hikes in the Superstition Wilderness, including the Miner’s Needle Loop, Black Mesa, and most recently, …
- 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 …
- Overnight on McFadden Horse MountainRecent signs of monsoon activity surrounded my drive up to the Sierra Ancha Wilderness. The hills were bright …
Featured series
Across the MazatzalsA four-day Labor Day loop that turned into a semi-emergency exit down Davenport Trail.
4 parts