Canyons, crowds, and concession stands... Wisconsin Dells reminded me that sometimes even the “must-see” spots are better seen once. Wisconsin Dells had all the makings of a highlight — sculpted sandstone cliffs, winding river canyons, and the promise of adventure. But reality checked in fast. Two days of overpriced everything, endless crowds, and a campground… Continue reading Great Lakes Loop Road Trip: Days 4–5 – Exploring Wisconsin Dells and Mirror Lake State Park
A Big City Adventure Day 2 of our Great Lakes road trip was all about embracing the bustle. We landed in downtown Chicago early and crammed a lot into the day - iconic landmarks, a little fandom magic, overrated food, and topped it off with a perfect view of the lake a top the Navy… Continue reading Great Lakes Loop Roadtrip: Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin and Michigan – Day 2: Chicago, IL Big City Icons & Butterbeer Dreams
Every fall, one of the most magical migrations in the world sweeps quietly through Ohio: millions of monarch butterflies fluttering south on their 3,000-mile journey from Canada to the mountains of central Mexico. These tiny travelers weigh less than a single coffee bean, yet they cross a continent powered by instinct and the pull of… Continue reading From Canada to Mexico: Monarch Migration Through Ohio’s Lake Erie Shore
We kicked off our Great Lakes Loop with soft sand, sunset skies, and the perfect blend of peace and adventure. Indiana Dunes National Park gave us winding trails, wildflowers, and lake breezes that melted the stress of daily life right off. We ended the day with live music, ice cream, and a private view of the sun sinking into Lake Michigan. Not a bad start.
From wildflower blooms to lantern-lit walks, your month-by-month guide to Ohio’s most magical moments outdoors. January🥾 First Day Hike – Any Ohio State Park (January 1)🥾 Grandma Gatewood Annual Winter Hike – Hocking Hills (Mid-January)🥾 Twin Sisters Frozen Waterfall Hike – Brecksville, OH (Mid-January–Mid-February)🥾 Tree Farm Trail Snow Hike – Cuyahoga Valley National Park (January–February)… Continue reading 📅 She is Wild and Free: Ohio’s Seasonal Bucket List – Nature, Outdoor Adventure, and Events You Can’t Miss
New York might be famous for its skyline, but some of its most jaw-dropping views are found in the gorges, forests, and hidden glens upstate. On a recent road trip, I set out to explore some of the Empire State’s most iconic — and a few lesser-known — waterfalls. From fire-lit caves to roadside cascades,… Continue reading Chasing Waterfalls: My Road Trip Through New York’s Most Stunning Falls
March in the mountains means mud, magic, and wild ponies. This weekend trip to Grayson Highlands gave me all three. 3 Day / 2 Night Backpacking Trip -- My very first! This list is in no way meant to be an ideal--it was my starting point. And it was heavy! There were some things I… Continue reading 🥾Spring Hiking & Wild Ponies: Grayson Highlands Weekend Recap
Peeing outside isn’t glamorous—but it’s basically a rite of passage for women who hike. The Kula Cloth is the original reusable pee cloth designed for anyone who squats in the wild. Let’s be real: wiping with a crumpled napkin, air-drying in alpine winds, or packing out soggy toilet paper is… not the vibe. That’s where… Continue reading 🔹Ladies: Stop Using Leaves. Get a Kula Cloth.
Winter is by far my favorite time to hike. Fewer people are fighting for prime viewing spots and the temperatures are perfect, so you’re not sweaty and there are no bugs. Throw in some snow and frozen waterfalls, and you have a magical adventure only a few will experience. Tree Farm Trail, Cuyahoga Valley National… Continue reading Winter Hiking: A Few of my Favorite Things: Clothing and Equipment Guide
My hiking adventures have earned me a few fun patches and I love to display them on my pack! I made this easy DIY Patch Ring to hold my patches that keep them secure to my pack with a quick off for pictures. DIY Patch Holder Materials needed: Cable Loop - I like these from… Continue reading Quick and Easy DIY Patch Holder
She is Wild & Free 