Category: Hiking

  • A Winter Expedition: Exploring Valhalla Park

    A Winter Expedition: Exploring Valhalla Park

    Winter hikes are one of my favorite things to do with my beagle, Brisco. We love exploring new trails, playing in the snow, and enjoying the fresh air. However, as he grows older sometimes the harder hikes through deep snow have been a bit more of a challenge for him.…

  • Take a Hike in Lansing

    Take a Hike in Lansing

    You may think that hiking in the Lansing area means pavement pathways and a disconnect from nature, like most cities. But that’s not the case in Lansing. In fact, within a short drive, trail goers have access to many beautiful forested trails, right in the heart of nature.

  • Don’t Miss the Incredible Ash Cave in Hocking Hills

    Don’t Miss the Incredible Ash Cave in Hocking Hills

    You don’t want to miss Ash Cave in Hocking Hills State Park. Ash Cave isn’t like those we splunked through in Cumberland Caverns. It is a type of cave called a recess cave – and it is the largest one in the state of Ohio.

  • Hiking to Cedar Falls in Hocking Hill State Park

    Hiking to Cedar Falls in Hocking Hill State Park

    Cedar Falls is one of Hocking Hill State Park’s greatest waterfall by volume. However, don’t get your hopes up of seeing this waterfall roaring with life if you visit any time in the summer. Like the other waterfalls in this area, Cedar Falls is likely to dry up during the…

  • The Rock House in Hocking Hills State Park

    The Rock House in Hocking Hills State Park

    Hocking Hills State Park is well known for its caves. But did you know that there is actually only one true cave within the park? That’s the Rock House. The Rock House cave is about 200 feet long and 20 to 30 feet wide with a high ceiling of 25…

  • Top 5 Reasons Why Old Man’s Cave is Worth Exploring

    Top 5 Reasons Why Old Man’s Cave is Worth Exploring

    Old Man’s Cave is the most popular area in Hocking Hills State Park. There is so much to see along a short, easy hike that is unique and very beautiful.

  • My First Adventure on the Big Bay Pathway

    My First Adventure on the Big Bay Pathway

    When I first discovered the Big Bay Pathway, I was intrigued. I had difficulty finding any information about it other than a tiny image of a detail-less map and that it was used primarily for cross-country skiing. I visited what I had thought was the trailhead a few times but…

  • The 3 Layers of Winter

    The 3 Layers of Winter

    Winter is one of my favorite times to camp and explore the outdoors. There is nothing more beautiful than the sound of winter in the woods. But before venturing out into the cold it is important to have a plan on how to stay warm.

  • The Running Adventure I Didn’t Want at Proud Lake Recreation Area

    The Running Adventure I Didn’t Want at Proud Lake Recreation Area

    Visiting Proud Lake Recreation Area has been on my bucket list for quite some time now. With over 3,000 acres, including the scenic Huron River, this recreation area provides activities for all outdoor adventurers.

  • Gift Guide for Your Favorite Camper & Hiker

    Gift Guide for Your Favorite Camper & Hiker

    If you know someone who loves the outdoors as much as I do, here are some great gift ideas that might help you support the camper and hiker in your life.

  • The Magic of the Bush Bay Trail

    The Magic of the Bush Bay Trail

    Take a magical hike in the woods on the Bush Bay Trail near Cedarville, Michigan. With beautiful views of Lake Huron, limestone and dolomite formations, and all the moss that would make a fairy garden jealous. This hike is well worth the stop. The Bush Bay Trail has been nicknamed…

  • Exploring the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail

    Exploring the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail

    Waterloo Recreation Area is truly an outdoor enthusiast’s haven. With 20,000 acres of land, Waterloo Recreation Area is the largest state park in Michigan’s lower peninsula. It includes diverse camping options, 11 inland lakes, and multiple systems. On my visit, I decided to explore the extensive Waterloo-Pinckney Trail.

  • Take a Hike at Maybury State Park

    Take a Hike at Maybury State Park

    Maybury State Park boasts nearly 1,000 acres of rolling terrain, open meadows, and mature forest. Located in southeast Michigan near the town of Northville, this park provides an excellent escape from the city. With trails to accommodate hikers of all experiences, horses, and bikers of all levels, Maybury State Park…

  • Sandy Hikes & Lake Huron Views at Port Crescent State Park

    Sandy Hikes & Lake Huron Views at Port Crescent State Park

    If you are looking for a hike that offers sandy beaches, lake views, and can be completed in an hour, Port Crescent State Park has what you are looking for.

  • Are You Tick Aware?

    Are You Tick Aware?

    It is spring and the prime season for ticks. These little creatures can be intimidating and scary. They have the power to dampen what could be a fun hiking or camping trip. But the reality is, we need to learn to co-exist with them because they aren’t going anywhere. To…

  • Discovering Beckwith Nature Preserve

    Discovering Beckwith Nature Preserve

    If you’re looking for a quick, easy hike, Beckwith Nature Preserve is the place for you. This little trail system provides an escape to nature all with the convenience of being tucked away on the edge of town.

  • Gift Guide For Your Favorite Outdoor Enthusiast

    Gift Guide For Your Favorite Outdoor Enthusiast

    There is little better than giving a gift that helps support someone you love to continue doing what they love. Finding the right gift can be challenging. There are so many options out there and everyone has their own preferences, especially when it comes to outdoor gear.

  • Take a Hike in Marquette

    Take a Hike in Marquette

    Hiking options are abundant in Marquette, Michigan. With scenic views everywhere, unique terrain, and waterfalls galore, it is easy to see why Marquette is one of my favorite Michigan hiking destinations. Here are some of my favorite trails to hike in the area.

  • A Fall Hike in the Smoky Mountains: Charlies Bunion

    A Fall Hike in the Smoky Mountains: Charlies Bunion

    Hop on the Appalachian Trail and find beautiful vistas at Charlies Bunion in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This is one of my favorite places within the park to experience autumn in the mountains.

  • Exploring the Powell Township Recreation Area

    Exploring the Powell Township Recreation Area

    From the first time I heard about the Powell Township Recreation trails, I could not wait to step foot on them. Located in one of my favorite locations, Marquette County, this trail system has a lot to offer. As part of the Noquemanon Trail Network, it does not disappoint.

  • A Beginners Trail Guide to Hiking

    A Beginners Trail Guide to Hiking

    Going on your first hike can be overwhelming and intimidating. With all of the information out there, it’s hard to know what to do and how to do it. Based on my experiences as a hiker and a trail runner, I decided to put together this basic guide to trail…

  • Running the Trails at Ionia State Recreation Area

    Running the Trails at Ionia State Recreation Area

    Like most of Michigan’s state parks, Ionia State Recreation Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. From forested campsites, sandy beaches, and miles of trails, it has adventure around every corner. This pretty park is a great option for a long hike or run.

  • Climbing Mount Baldhead

    Climbing Mount Baldhead

    Looking for a unique adventure? Mount Baldhead in Saugatuck, Michigan has exactly what you’re looking for. Climb the Stair-Climb From Hell for spectacular views of Saugatuck, Douglas, and a glimpse of Lake Michigan.

  • Exploring the Trails at Ingham Conservation District

    Exploring the Trails at Ingham Conservation District

    There are few things more exciting than the first run or hike on a new trail system. I learned about the Ingham Conservation District trail from a local running group and was eager to check them out. I was pleasantly surprised by these trails and can’t wait to get back…

  • Outdoor Ethics: Leave No Trace

    Outdoor Ethics: Leave No Trace

    Warmer days are coming and with it, people will be looking at resuming their outside activities. Whether you’re hitting the trails, spending a weekend camping, or participating in other forms of outdoor recreation, it is extremely important to know and practice Leave No Trace.