There’s something really freeing about showing up somewhere with zero expectations. No research, no itinerary, no idea what you’re walking into. That was me at Palmer Park. I was about halfway through a two-week trip in Colorado Springs and Manitou
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If hiking in Colorado is on your list, you already know it’s a dream destination, and the Garden of the Gods is one of the most unique stops along the way. With red dust underfoot, towering sandstone formations, and that
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If you’re looking for one of the most impressive natural attractions in Colorado that doesn’t cost a dime, look no further than Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. This iconic park is famous for its towering red sandstone formations,
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As someone who has always loved hiking, I first heard about the Manitou Incline years ago—and from that moment on, it never left my mind. The Manitou Incline is one of the most well-known and challenging hikes in Colorado, and
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During my second attempt at thru-hiking the Lone Star Trail, I kept a simple trail journal to capture how each day unfolded — the miles, the small wins, the challenges, and the moments that stood out most. While my other
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When I attempted my first Lone Star Trail thru-hike, I packed the best gear I had at the time and went into it knowing that my setup would continue to evolve. Gear upgrades are gradual. They’re often expensive, and long-distance
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My first Lone Star Trail thru-hike attempt in May 2025 ended earlier than I planned. On the morning of Day 4, I had to get off trail due to dehydration and a heat rash that had spread across my body.
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After more than ten years away from Michigan, I finally made the trip back this October—and I knew I had to hit the trail. My friend Stephen reached out with a perfect plan, and the moment I heard “hike,” I
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When I travel, I always look to see if there are any places to go hiking near my destination. Typically, I’ll hop on Alltrails and look at the top 10 hikes and choose a few. During my solo trip to
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If you’re looking for one of the most beautiful and rewarding hikes near Salt Lake City, Utah, the Lake Blanche Trail is a must-do. A beautiful out-and-back trail in the Big Cottonwood Canyon, known for its alpine scenery, vibrant summer
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None right now.
The Bright Years - Sarah Damoff