Packing for Adventure
Pack Light. Travel Far.
Category: National Park
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Joshua Tree National Park is best explored in two phases: early morning and late afternoon. Plan short, flexible stops, prioritize shade and drive-up viewpoints, and embrace a slower pace to beat the heat.
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Joshua Tree requires planning—especially in the heat. Start early, carry plenty of water, and expect to slow your pace. When towing a trailer, mapping fuel and supply stops ahead of time makes all the difference.
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Big hikes require big trips. When traveling for a bucket-list hike like Half Dome, plan beyond the trail itself. Stack nearby parks, reuse old research when possible, and stay flexible—because nature will change your plans whether you’re ready or not.
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Angel’s Landing wasn’t just a hike—it was a turning point. What started as a long-held fear became proof that I could do hard, intimidating things, even when doubt and fear were louder than confidence.
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A mom-style take on why choosing one favorite travel destination is impossible—every place offers something uniquely unforgettable.
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Uncle Tom’s Trail is a 328-stair descent to the bottom of the waterfall at the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone – will it ever reopen?
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We didn’t hike Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim at the Grand Canyon—and here’s why. A reflection on knowing your limits, savoring the experience, and not letting the checklist override the joy of travel.
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We fell in love with the Grand Canyon’s South Rim—and we’re already planning how to do it better next time. From staying longer at Phantom Ranch to hiking more of the Tonto Trail, here’s our dream itinerary (plus a few hard-earned lessons).
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Here’s our full packing list for hiking to Phantom Ranch—what we carried, what the mules carried, what we wish we’d brought, and the gear that worked best for us.
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Here’s our exact 4-day Grand Canyon itinerary, including a stay at Phantom Ranch. We packed in over 20 miles of hiking, stunning views, and a night at the bottom of the canyon—all in a short, unforgettable trip.
Packing for Adventure 