The Long Way Home
An easy winter of desert miles and open skies gave way to snowstorms, warning lights, and a reminder that the road always has the final word.
Embracing the Wild: My Backcountry Summer in the Gila Part 8
The following week unfolded as a whirlwind of diverse activities. It all began with a journey to Nashville to reunite with my partner, followed by a joint drive to Huntsville to visit my brother, and culminated in a lively summer lab party with my PhD advisor and his team. This leg of the journey kicked …
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Embracing the Wild: My Backcountry Summer in the Gila Part 7
As my body adapted to the rigors of weekly hikes, I found myself brimming with newfound energy even while back at the dorms, juggling my day job. A trail run, some yoga sessions, and even a short bike ride injected a refreshing burst of vitality into my routine. But just as I was gearing up …
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Embracing the Wild: My Backcountry Summer in the Gila Part 6
It was nice working at the dorms instead of car camping in Silver City to be near service. All thanks to Starlink! I enjoyed the Gila on breaks from computer work and my day job. I was lucky enough to catch the LightFeather Hot Spring, not far from the dorms in solitude twice during my …
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Embracing the Wild- My Backcountry Summer in the Gila Part 5
This adventure was like no other, with each twist and turn offering a blend of excitement and apprehension that kept me on my toes. The day began with a buzz of anticipation as I made my way to the visitor center to finalize my route. However, what greeted me was unexpected chaos; the parking lot …
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Where the Saguaros Stand Alone
In a landscape defined by space and exposure, solitude sharpens everything.
Embracing the Wild- My Backcountry Summer in the Gila Part 4
In the heart of the Gila Wilderness, my backcountry journey continued with a mix of trail work, wildlife encounters, and the thrill of navigating unknown terrain. Strap in as I share the adventures through McKenna Park and beyond. Trail Work on the CDT between Trips Between backcountry trips, I seized the opportunity to contribute to …
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Rim to River to New Year
Rim to river and back again—one last descent before stepping into a new year.
Embracing the Wild- My Backcountry Summer in the Gila Part 3
On my first day of duty, I found out they wanted me in the backcountry every day! I thought I would be stationed in the visitor center some days to give trail information to visitors. But the trails were not very busy, and my time would be better utilized with my eyes on the backcountry. …
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Into the Narrows
Cold water, long lines, and careful decisions defined our winter days in Zion, from Scout Lookout to a turning point deep in The Narrows.