I’ve always been drawn to the trails that lead you to a place of solitude. The ones that require a bit of dust, a few miles of trail under your boots and even a dirt road to find. Canyonlands quickly became one of those places that reminds me why I take the long way to find adventure away from the pavement.

The journey started off spectacularly. A well-maintained trail of packed sand wound through impressive red rock formations and deeper into the desert. After a short incline, we witnessed the dramatic ribbon of red rock over the horizon. Past this arch is when the trail transformed into something far more demanding.

Often overshadowed by its famous neighbors, Capitol Reef National Park proved to be an unexpected highlight during our Mighty Five in Five Days adventure, complete with geological wonders, a hiking highlight and a new fresh-baked favorite.

After a winter storm canceled our plans last year, we finally made it to Sequoia National Park for a day of hiking snowy trails in complete solitude amongst 2,000-year-old giants in an experience that left my soul feeling alive.

Beyond the desert sagebrush lies a glacier-carved paradise. From 11,000-foot peaks to crystal-clear alpine Lakes, join me as I hike Lamoille Canyon and Nevada's breathtaking Ruby Mountains.

The Stargazer Inn serves as the perfect basecamp haven for exploring Baker, Nevada and the nearby Great Basin National Park.

In January, Death Valley National Park was our first camping trip of 2022, so it was special to also make it our last of the year.