I feel incredibly lucky to live an hour from Badlands National Park, which gives us the opportunity to quickly take advantage of breaks in the weather to explore this beautiful area. Such was the case last week when our January temperatures rose into the upper 50 F / 10 C for a few days. Although …
Continue reading South Dakota Hikes: Badlands Saddle Pass Loop
Our 2025 was filled with new adventures and lots of travel to spend time with loved ones, both domestic and abroad. We started the year with road trips around the Mountain West to visit friends and family in Colorado and Utah and hike in new-to-us national parks in Utah and Nevada, including Capitol Reef, Bryce …
We decided to take a short road trip to southern Manitoba - our first time in this Canadian province! - for my birthday this year. While our move to South Dakota a couple weeks prior didn't leave me with tons of planning time, I did map out a four-day itinerary that included spending a couple …
Much as we found in Bryce Canyon National Park, February was a great time to experience Zion National Park. We were able to drive our personal vehicle rather than take the mandatory shuttle that runs from spring through fall, we were not held to any reservation system for entry, and while there were more people …
I've been on several solo trips, and in almost every instance it's been an incredible opportunity to clear my head, indulge in introspection, and regain confidence and personal autonomy. However, I would be lying if I suggested there haven't been issues. Two that standout in my mind both happened when I was in my 20s. …
I've been wanting to ride a motorcycle to Alaska ever since I started to do long-distance touring more than 20 years ago. After quitting our jobs in 2023 to have more time to travel, taking this trip topped my list. (Fortunately I have a partner who goes along with such ideas.) I knew spring/summer 2024 would …
Continue reading Motorcycling to Alaska: Choosing a Bike, Accessories, and Gear
I don't usually need a lot of motivation to get outdoors but sometimes I read or learn something that inspires me to try a new outdoor experience or develop an appreciation for a new aspect of nature. This Earth Day I certainly plan to #optoutside, but I'd be fooling myself to think I'll go through …
Finding direction and purpose on the road, in the outdoors, and on the page
Finding direction and purpose on the road, in the outdoors, and on the page
Finding direction and purpose on the road, in the outdoors, and on the page
Heather's Compass 