My Next Adventure
After settling down in Breckenridge, CO, I thought to myself, “what’s next?” This “what’s next” mentality can be both a blessing and a curse. Although it often leads to pursuing great conquests, it also can serve as a distraction from embracing the present. However, that discussion isn’t the purpose of this post. Instead, I want to share with you what’s next for me.
In Breck, we have a mud season, which refers to the time in between Summer and Winter where mother nature melts pristine, white snow to uncover the mucky undertone underneath. Many establishments in town close for renovations after the ski season ends, and their employees often embark on some type of adventure or vacation to celebrate the end of a busy winter, and to relax before the summertime rush. Co-workers and friends would talk about their plans to go camping and hiking, and these conversations got me thinking…
I’ve never been camping. I don’t like bugs. I don’t even know how to start a fire. So why the hell have I decided to embark on a 4,000 mile road-trip across the Western United States to visit some of the most prominent national parks in the country? My first road-trip inspired me to think bigger. Where else can I drive? What else can I see?I’ve read about the National Parks of the American West, and how to survive On Your Own in the Wilderness as guides for this new adventure. I have my tent and sleeping bag, but that’s about it. However, Walmart and REI will provide me with the rest of my camping essentials: a hammock, insect repellant, cooking equipment, etc.
I’ll leave Colorado and head north towards Mount Rushmore (South Dakota) before starting west on my way to the Grand Tetons and Yellowstone (Wyoming). Then I’ll drive north once again before reaching Glacier National Park (Montana). After stopping in both Mount Rainier and Olympic National Parks (Washington), I’ll drive south along the Oregon coast towards Redwood National Park (California), and continue towards Point Reyes National Seashore before reaching Yosemite. My journey then crosses through the desert: Death Valley (California/Nevada), Las Vegas, the Grand Canyon (Arizona). Finally, I’ll visit Utah’s national parks: Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Arches, before finishing my road-trip at the Black Sand Dunes in Colorado. This trip will encompass 4,000+ miles of travel, 15+ national parks & monuments, and will take over a month to complete. I’m pushing myself outside of my comfort zone to experience the natural beauty of this country. I’m excited to continue preparing for this adventure, and I’m equally as excited to share my progress with you. Comment below with any tips, recommendations, or advice that you may have for me!
