Explore the journey — one trail, museum, meal, and memory at a time.
Leaving Canyonlands NP
I set out expecting a straightforward drive toward Cedar Mesa and instead spent the day arguing with Google Maps, second-guessing ChatGPT, and rerouting around roads I refused to drive. Somewhere in the middle was an excellent Thai meal in Monticello and a quiet night in Blanding, Utah.
Vegas 2026
I hadn’t been on Fremont Street since nineteen eighty-three. Walking it again—under the LED canopy, past old neon, Indiana fans celebrating, and familiar landmarks like the Golden Nugget—made it clear how much Las Vegas has changed. Some things remain recognizable, but they now exist inside a much louder, brighter version of the city.
Martin Guitar Factory & More
From watching frets installed by hand at the Martin Guitar Factory to carefully navigating an icy trail at Trexler Nature Preserve, the day unfolded as a mix of precision, patience, and quiet observation. It ended simply and comfortably in the Cabela’s parking lot in Hamburg — one of those rare places where a long day of exploring wraps up without complication.
Spruce Knob & Seneca Rocks
I woke to fog and rain in the Monongahela National Forest and set out for Spruce Knob, the highest point in West Virginia. After exploring the summit’s alpine forest, I continued to Seneca Rocks for a steep hike, sweeping mountain views, and unexpected conversations about shutdowns, miners, and the strength of small mountain towns.
Berea, KY
Berea, Kentucky, is built around its arts community and the spirit of Berea College. I spent the day exploring the artisan shops, learning about the town’s history, and hiking the East Pinnacles Trail. The views were worth every step, even if the rest of the day didn’t quite match the hype.
Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge lies deep in Nebraska’s Sandhills, far from towns and paved highways. Visitors who brave the rough roads discover a landscape of quiet lakes, prairie dunes, and birdlife. It’s one of the most remote refuges in the lower 48, where solitude and sweeping skies define the experience.