I resumed existence somewhere in the backwoods of Tennessee, summoned to feast with friends, new and old. The gathering was an annual tradition, though it was my first time attending. Hosted by Root 66, the same friend who once led me down a forgotten, snow-laden trail from a frozen mountain, where we stumbled into town […]
Tag: wandering
Terminal C, Denver International Airport
I woke up in Terminal C of Denver International Airport, having slept on the floor, beneath unforgiving lights. Because people are afraid of each other, I spent another two days stealth camped outside of a UPS store. Waiting for things you aren’t supposed to bring on an airplane. Trekking poles, tent stakes, a pocket knife. […]
Stealth Camping Sedona
Nestled in the tranquil shade, far from the bustle of civilization, I surrendered to sleep. For days on end, I followed a routine: stash my belongings in a tree, hike miles to the trailhead, and catch the shuttle into Sedona. After only a few hours in town, replenishing water, savoring a meal, I’d board the […]
Northbound from Key West, Florida
It took two days to reach the southern most point of the Continental United States, only to then immediately turn around, hiking north on the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail. A new beginning, to see Florida again with fresh eyes. Two days more of pounding pavement, back to the Seven Mile Bridge, where cars rush […]
Plans Change on the AZT
Rain fell from the cloudless sky as I lay awake, gazing at the twinkling stars. There had been no rain predicted, not the slightest chance of showers, and yet, within a half hour the stars were hidden behind a thick canopy of dark clouds. I fell asleep thinking it would be a passing shower. But […]
Stealth Camping Sabino Canyon
Gratitude washed over me as the sun reclaimed the Santa Catalina Mountains. The persistent chill and dampness had worn on me, prompting daydreams of warmer, heavier gear. On a cold and breezy morning descent from Mt. Lemmon, my focus wasn’t on miles but on descending to Hutch’s Pool. I yearned to warm up, spread out […]
Oracle, Arizona
Resting under Oracle’s skies for three nights, beneath my poncho, amidst rain, thunder, and lightning. Javelinas stirring in the night, my mind racing, fueled by Dollar Store energy shots on the hike towards new shoes. My body urged me to seek solace in the trail. To keep moving in a dance of exercise-induced neurogenesis, while […]
Klamath Falls, Oregon
I found myself wandering the desolate streets of Klamath Falls late into the night. Heading to Los Angeles, and then points east. My backpack has become too heavy from the multitude of gear experiments this year, and maybe it’s time for a change. Cut everything back to bare minimum. Besides, wearing blue jeans makes me […]