Adventures with less
Tho’ much is taken, much abides; and tho’ We are not now that strength which in old days Moved earth and heaven, that which we are, we are; One equal temper of heroic hearts, Made weak by time and fate, but strong in will To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield. -Alfred, Lord Tennyson It was 3 … Read more
Published in Backpacking Light, March 2014 “We’ll be fine”, I said, not very confidently. Doug had just asked me how far I thought we’d get before the car ran out of gas. I wasn’t sure, but had that sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach that we weren’t going to get very far. The … Read more
Published in Backpacking Light Magazine, December 2013. It had initially been titled “Twenty Shades of Gray” in reference to the winter skies over Lake Superior, but they thought the title too provocative. J raised an eyebrow inquisitively. She must have noticed the look of longing that had flitted across my face. “You’re not planning something … Read more
Originally published March 2013 The internet is a great and terrible tool for communication. It brings together people with diverse backgrounds, geographic ranges, and interests who all share a love for backcountry travel. Unfortunately, forum members come to the table with their own set of assumptions, and absent the subtleties of facial expression and other … Read more
Originally published March 2013 Adventure begins with the planning of a trip. Poring over maps, planning routes, and selecting gear usually begins weeks in advance, watching the weather as the date approaches to fine tune clothing systems. For me at least, this anticipation is the glue that connects the last trip to the next. Anticipation … Read more
Originally Published February 2013 I’ve never been one to let the weather dictate my activities. Changing weather patterns are an immutable fact in wilderness travel and, as such, acceptance is generally a better strategy than cursing, fighting, or running from them. I guess that’s why I found myself back in the slop again this weekend, … Read more
Originally published January 2013 My favorite type of adventure usually spans at least 5 days and averages 100-150 miles. This type of trip gives me the range to really explore an area and the time to become completely immersed in the process. Not all days are equal though. The first day is a gradual process … Read more
Planning a trip to Pictured Rocks in winter had been on my mind ever since I passed through all too quickly last May. Pictured Rocks had it all; gigantic sand dunes, sandstone cliffs, abundant wildlife, clear blue waters, and many hidden treasures. Problem was, everyone else knew it too. During peak season, Pictured Rocks sees … Read more
Some say the world will end in fire,Some say in ice.From what I’ve tasted of desireI hold with those who favor fire.But if it had to perish twice,I think I know enough of hateTo say that for destruction iceIs also greatAnd would suffice. -Robert Frost Winter’s been slow in coming to Michigan this year. I’d … Read more