Top 5 Hiking Mistakes

We have all done it. We've all headed out on a hike and messed up. It takes practice, research and commitment to be a strong hiker who knows what they are doing when in the middle of nowhere.

Here are a few of the most common mistakes people make when they decide to start hiking. Read these. Learn these. Be a better hiker!

#1 Wearing The Wrong Clothing

• Ok yeah let's go hiking with flip-flops on. Seriously? These people drive hikers crazy! Take a second to consider for a moment that you are going into the forest where pavement does not exist. Think about what you are wearing so you can be prepared for the weather and the conditions of the trail. 
• Typically I wear workout gear because I do day-hikes. I wear tennis shoes/hiking shoes depending on the trail, workout pants, sports bra and tank top. Depending on the weather I'll carry a jacket too. If I am hiking in the winter I am layering like crazy but still have big, thick shoes on to manage the terrain.

#2 Not Prepared/Pack Too Little

• If you are hiking for longer than a mile, you're going to need some stuff with you. It is hilarious but also terrifying when I see someone going on a super long hike with nothing but a single bottle of water. Not a Nalgene, I'm talking about an Arrowhead bottle.
• Always, always, always bring water. Not sometimes, not only if it is hot out....always. Say it with me....ALWAYS! And plenty of it!
• You're also going to need to bring pepper/bear spray, maybe a snack, you're phone, sunscreen, clothing if the weather changes, etc.
• I carry a waist pack if the hike is under 4 miles and my Camelbak if it is longer or if I am going to be out for awhile because it carries more stuff.

#3 Didn't Do Hike Research

• Ever go out and that 2 mile hike turned into 6 miles? I have been there. I'll admit to getting caught up in the beauty of the forest and missing a left turn. Oops. This is dangerous though.
• Use the power of Google to make sure you know how long your hike is, the difficulty and read people's reviews of it.
• I went out on a hike that was only 1 mile. Super simple! Until I got there and saw it was a mile straight down big boulders of rock which I wasn't prepared to have to climb down or back up. 

#4 Didn't Check The Weather

• I mean really???? Okay, I admit I've done this one too. Two miles into a hike on the side of Mount Elden it pours on us. I am not talking a sprinkle or some rain....I am talking full on waterfall coming down on us. The trail was a huge mud pit and we had to make some tough decisions on how to get out. 

#5 Not Following Leave No Trace

• If I see someone break this sacred rule I will lose it. You're going to go out into nature and respect it. That's the rule and that's the expectation.
• All the people who go out to Fossil Creek and leave beer cans and their trash everywhere deserve to be banned from enjoying every piece of nature. I could go off on this for days, but I'm just going to keep it to this: stay on the trail, pick up your shit and respect everything you encounter in the forests of our world.

Hiking Gear 101

Ok ya'll it is time to get back to basics!

Today I spoke with a co-worker about a valid concern: what is with people going on these long hikes with NOTHING but a small water bottle!?!?!?? It is kinda funny, kinda sad and very concerning.

Let's get it together and own the the fact that anything can happen and it is up to us to be responsible for our safety.

So here are the basic essentials I urge you to bring with you while going on a hike. This is going to focus on day hikes, as an overnight trip will be coming in a future blog!

1. Backpack/Waist Gear- If I know I'm going to be out for a few hours I load up my Camelbak with plenty of water so I don't have to worry about running out in a water bottle. The Camelbak allows you to have your hands free and pack everything you need. If my hike is less long I use my waist gear to carry a large water bottle and hold all my stuff.
2. Sun Protection- Whether you tend to tan or not you need to protect your skin from the sun rays. I like to tan so I spray on a low sunscreen to ensure I don't burn, but can still bronze up a bit. You also should consider lip protection (we all know how much we use Chapstick in Northern Arizona). 
3. Light snack- depending on the length of your hike, you're going to need to fill that belly. I tend to stick with almonds, a granola bar or fruit.
4. Medical Kit- You seriously never know when you need to patch something up before going to find help. I have had a few close calls while hiking where I thankfully was okay enough to keep going and get to my car. If you are bleeding and in bear country you are going to be thankful you have the supplies needed to clean yourself up.
5. Water!- I mean....duh.
6. Bear Spray/Pepper Spray- I hate that I have to bring this stuff. I want to enjoy nature without fear of running into some crappy people. But the world we live in tells me I need to protect myself. I keep the pepper spray in an easily accessed spot outside of my backpack. I keep the bear spray in a mesh pocket on my backpack.
7. Shoes- the right shoes. If I see one more person hiking in flip-flops I'm going to scream. I'm talking hiking boots, tennis shoes or sandals like Chacos or Tevas.

Be safe. Be smart. And most of all enjoy!!!

<script>
  (function(i,s,o,g,r,a,m){i['GoogleAnalyticsObject']=r;i[r]=i[r]||function(){
  (i[r].q=i[r].q||[]).push(arguments)},i[r].l=1*new Date();a=s.createElement(o),
  m=s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];a.async=1;a.src=g;m.parentNode.insertBefore(a,m)
  })(window,document,'script','//www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js','ga');

  ga('create', 'UA-71294329-1', 'auto');
  ga('send', 'pageview');

</script>

<script id="mNCC" language="javascript">  medianet_width='336';  medianet_height= '280';  medianet_crid='718376885';  </script>  <script id="mNSC" src="http://contextual.media.net/nmedianet.js?cid=8CUGW9H46" language="javascript"></script> 

Product Review: Leatherman

My brother-in-law gave me his old Leatherman tool after he bought a new one. I had never heard of it before and had to have him show me all of its goodies.

This tool is such a camping/outdoor necessity. Think Swiss Army Knife, but a million times better!

The Leatherman is packed with a variety of tools including wire cutters, knives, pliers, saw, can opener and so much more.

So what makes this incredible? If you are going camping or hiking this tool is going to be a consistent go to. I used it to hunt for pitch for the fire, open cans, and cut a nice point on my stick for s'mores. One tool which easily fits into your pocket and gives you access to anything you could need if you are outdoors and/or in trouble. If I were lost on a hike this tool would instantly make me feel more confident as I know I could use to help with a variety of survival scenarios.

Prices vary and the site even offers engraving so you can give one as a gift. For more information check out http://www.leatherman.com/

Exploring Soldiers Pass Trail

This trail allows you to visit some of the more popular gems of Sedona: Devil's Sinkhole and the Seven Sacred Pools. The beginning of the trail keeps you in beautiful red rocks and connected to what most of us love about Sedona. However, there is a section of the hike I wasn't a huge fan of. You'll pass through areas which have been under fire in years past which I found sad, and not appealing.

Overall this hike is easy, minus a big hill you have to get up. But it is doable for sure, and will aid in sculpting those Beyonce thighs. This is the perfect time of year to go see this trail.

Sacred Pools of Sedona

What to bring:

• Water! I use a hiking belt so I don't have to hold it in my hands. You can get one at Walmart for about $10.
• Hiking shoes
• Snacks (almonds would be perfect enough)
• Hat/Sunscreen (you'll be in the sun)
• Pepper spray or something else to protect you

Getting there:
Head down to Sedona via 89A. After you pass through town, turn right onto Soldiers Pass Road and drive about 1.5 miles. Follow signage for the trail.

Coffee & FroYo at Cultured Cafe

When you need a relaxing local favorite to study or read in go no further than Cultured Cafe. This chill coffeeshop has delicious treats to make you feel warm inside as you look at the snow falling outside. In addition to creative coffee flavors and brewed teas, they serve frozen yogurt. Let me tell you....yum! You get to pick from a variety of flavors and can load up as many toppings as you would like. You pay for the froyo based on its weight, and the variety offered is overwhelming in all the right ways.

My favorite aspect of Cultured is the decor. The intentional design is inviting, appealing and what I would give to hire whoever did to come shopping with me for my own place.

Location:
Cultured is located off of Butlter Ave, near REI and Whole Foods. Address: 319 West Regent St #209.

Going Rogue in Ireland

See you later Northern Arizona! For this post I want to share my trip to Ireland with you.

Oh you know just a magical waterfall I found in the middle of nowhere.

Horse carriages everywhere! I wish I could have one to take to work on a daily basis. Imagine it though.

Ireland was beautiful. If you go for no other reason than to drive around and take in its features you will be thrilled. It is amazing. No billboards, no congestion, no smog; just green. Green land barely ruined by people. The little towns are just that....little. They haven't rid the town of its beautiful landscape, greenery and animals.

We explored the eastern, southern and western portions of Ireland. We met kind, positive, inspiring people who live minimally. We enjoyed cappuccinos daily with my new favorite treat, a chocolate biscuit.

You can't go to Ireland and not have Guinness and Irish whiskey.

We literally drove in our car going town to town exploring and it could not have been more perfect. Driving the Ring of Kerry and standing over a railing to view the ocean crash on a series of cliffs brought me life! If you can't tell yet by this blog, I LOVE NATURE. I found a waterfall in a forest and dreamed of putting up my hammock and spending the entire day there.

Becoming certified to pour Guinness. It is official. I got a certificate and everything.

Happy place!

Hammock Life is the Best Life

Let's talk hammocks.

You need one. Now.

Above all else in life (besides things like food) you need a hammock in your life.

Why? Well let's begin with this: it is one of the best things ever made. They provide a relaxation I have yet to find elsewhere. Put your feet up and feel how wonderful this creation is.

Hammocks are relaxing and mobile. I take mine everywhere, strap it to some trees and enjoy the noises of nature. I've had the best naps in my hammocks, read a few books and let go of any stress I had.

I highly recommend the ECO brand. The nylon is great quality and easy to put up and take down. I n addition to the actual hammock you will need to buy the straps to connect to trees.

You can go deep into the forest for hammock time or go hang out at a park.

Driving Through Hart Prairie

Hart Prairie. Are you ready for this magical place? Sitting amongst us is a heavenly place nestled behind the San Francisco Peaks and I was lucky enough to finally explore it.

October is a special time in Flagstaff and Northern Arizona. As we welcome Fall we also welcome the color shifting leaves on our beloved Aspen trees. These white trunked trees move from their nearly year-round green leaves into beautiful reds, yellows and oranges. This time is quick and lasts up to 2 weeks so hikers run out to their favorite trails with the most Aspen trees to nest in the beauty of these trees.

Trails like Kachina Trail, Weatherford Trail, Lockett Meadow and Veits Spring Loop tend to be favorites (all of which I highly recommend). But for those who want a different way to view these trees head out to Hart Prairie.

Getting there:
Head out down Highway 180 toward Snowbowl. A few miles after the Snowbowl turn you will see FR 151 on your right. Turn in here. Follow the path (and stay on it. There is a lot of private land around here which you cannot access) and it'll lead your around a loop of aspens and Ponderosas. You'll exit out toward Highway 180 and make a left back into Flagstaff.
609c72a0c8487562c8e7f14b701a87f08ce7e6a90bfb81d993

Campbell Mesa Trail System

For a quick hike/walk/hammock session check out Campbell Mesa trails. There are several loops to choose from all of which are surrounded in Ponderosa Pines, wildflowers and singing birds. These trails are easy and range in length. Perfect for bike riding, snow shoeing and really anything you want to do to be outdoors.

There are 5 loops and they vary between 1.8 miles to about 5.7 miles in length.

With my sister exploring the trails.

Getting there:
On I-40 exit at Country Club and turn right. Approximately one mile down make a left on Old Walnut Canyon Road. Drive about a mile until you see the sign "Campbell Mesa Recreation Access". The last 1/2 mile will be on dirt road but is easily accessible for all car types. Park at the gate and do not block the gate.

There are plenty of areas to hang out in and picnic, hammock, etc.

October in Flagstaff is here!!!!

It's that time of year. Flagstaff is about to get 100x more gorgeous as the Aspen trees transition from green into yellows, reds and oranges. This time of year means one thing for me: it's time to take out my list and begin my October Flagstaff hike favorites.

One of my favorites is Weatherford Trail.  I'll let the pictures speak for themselves, but let's start with the essentials:

• you'll need bear mace
• this hike is long but you can go for as long as you'd like and turn back
• to access head up Schultz Pass and watch out for signage. You'll go about 7-8 miles on the dirt road.
• bring plenty of water

Hiking Dry Lake Hills

I love everything offered up at Schultz Pass, and Dry Lake Hills is no exception. This peaceful hike is relaxing, gorgeous, one of my favorites. 

A few miles in you reach a rock pile. I climbed up and got to see miles ahead as well as the beautiful town of Flagstaff.

 The hike is mostly level so hikers of all types can easily get through it. Depending on the time of year the "dry lakes" won't be so dry. But this isn't water I would recommend hopping into.

There are a lot of trail up here and a lot of ways to get in/out. The way we went let us out to beautiful views of the San Francisco Peaks.

How can you not go with views like this?

The hike is about 4 miles roundtrip. There is one significant hill but after that it is pretty level. You'll want water, sunscreen and protection for your safety.

Getting there:
Hop onto Highway 180 toward Snowbowl. Turn right onto Schultz Pass Road. The road will turn into narrow dirt road. Be courteous of other drivers and watch out for deer and bikers. Continue on the dirt road for 4.1 miles. Turn right in the dirt parking lot where there is signage for Sunset Trail. The hike begins behind the big gate. Check out the map they have at the parking lot to see where you are going. There are so many trails back there and you don't want to hop on the wrong one!

Bearizona is EVERYTHING!!

Nestled in Williams, AZ is perhaps my new favorite place on this Earth. I mean it. I couldn't believe how much I fell in love with this place. Everything about it is special, organized and thoughtful for both the animals and the public visiting them.

The park is strategically laid out and in a word it is: beautiful. There are flowers everywhere and the park is so committed to recycling that much of their decor comes from recycled vehicles. You have to see it to believe it but it is pretty special.

Welcome to bear country.

Recommendation #1:
Get there early. We were the 2nd car in the park. The animals were so much more lively at this time.

We started off by going through the driving portion of the park. Wow, I couldn't believe the access we got to these animals. Deer came right up to the window and a bear was literally 2 feet from us. You get to see elk, burros, goats, wolves, buffalo, bears and more!

During our self- guided tour we got to hear wolves howling, and we grew nervous (yet excited) as my car was surrounded by black bears. We observed bears scratching their backs on trees, climbing, running and playing together.

Coming up to my window to say "Howdy!"

Recommendation #2:
Sit and wait. We would park and sit with the animals to observe them. So many cars would pass us and they'd miss everything! If you want to enjoy the animals you have to be patient.

Recommendation #3:
Summer months made the terrain absolutely perfect. Especially in July/August, Northern Arizona is overcome with wild sunflowers which grew around the park and in some of the animal areas.

Next we hopped on the guided bus tour so we could learn more about the park. We sat in the back and were told stories about each animal and how they arrived to the park (many were saved from illegal poaching/hunts).

Beautiful buffalo in a field of flowers and a classic Northern Arizona summer sky.

But nothing beat the moments we spent with the buffalo. One buffalo in particular was a big fan of the bus and knew the driver had carrots for her. She would literally chase us down to get more food from the bus. It was amazing to watch this huge animal glide across the meadow toward us. To experience it is one of a kind and indescribable, but it was a moment I will never forget.

After our driving tour we ate lunch and waited to feed the otters!

Food:
We brought a cooler with sandwich goodies in it, drinks and cupcakes. The park had no problem with us rolling our ice chest to the picnic area to chow down. We also were greeted by roaming, friendly peacocks while we ate.

Be sure to know the daily schedule so you don't miss the otter feeding. I thought we would be watching one of the staff feed the otters...no, no....this place is so amazing that they let YOU feed the otter! Everyone gets a piece of fish to drop down to two adorable, energetic otters.

Next we enjoyed walking around the park to the other animals not in the driving portions. We got to watch bear cubs climb trees and play with each other, hang out in a reptile house and go into the petting zoo.

You get to pet goats and sheep for as long as you'd like. Just watch out for the wild children.

What I love most about this place is the feeling that the animals are happy. Too many zoos offer tiny habitats which hardly recreate their natural ideas of home. Bearizona's habitats are large, and as an animal lover I fully support their efforts to help these animals and educate the public.

I got to visit here with two amazing women. Sarah and Jennise made the excursion even more exciting!

Getting there (from Flagstaff):
Hop on I-40 toward Los Angeles for about 25 miles. Follow the signs and exit to 1500 Historic Route 66, Williams, AZ 86046.

Also

• It costs $20 per person
• Open 9am-4pm
• The money you spend on entry is taken off if you decide to buy an annual pass. 
• The merchandise store is amazing! Check it out.

Mount Elden at Sunset

Northern Arizona sunsets are legendary. You just need to find the best spots to see how magnificent they truly are.

San Francisco Peaks view from Mount Elden.

Atop Mount Elden you will love taking in our beautiful Northern Arizona/Flagstaff. You'll fall in love with the trees, the sounds of deer and birds and the view of our city.

Taking the pup to the top.

Once we reached the top the bull dogs were able to roam.

Safety Note:
This is animal country. Drive safe, be cautious and know you are the guest in nature's home. Especially when driving back after dark, take your time as deer are everywhere. Value their lives and make smart decisions in regards to your downhill speed.

Getting there:
Take Mount Elden Lookout Trail to the top! You'll access this by taking Highway 180 and turning right onto Schultz Pass. There's a sign that points straight to Mount Elden Lookout Road. Follow this and you're set.

You can hike this trail and/or drive it.

We arrived early enough to still be able to see town and the mountain for awhile before the sun fully set.

Late For The Train: Go There

Nestled in the busy streets of downtown Flagstaff is a small coffee nook with pizzazz. Connected to Vino Loco and Hops on Birch, Late For The Train is my new favorite local Flagstaff spot. With green plants scaling around the room and maps of Northern Arizona you feel one with Flagstaff culture. This place caters to every generation, every social identity and is the perfect way to start or end your day.

Since finding this place I have not entered a Starbucks. I love it that much!

They have fresh scones and muffins made locally daily. Additionally, they offer delicious breakfast burritos so really you cannot go wrong.

My drink of choice is a medium Iced Mexican Mocha. It is sweet, cinnamon-y, fresh and just perfect. The baristas make every drink with a smile and you can tell they enjoy their work.

You have to go here. It is homey, yummy and lets you support local business!

Kendrick Mountain: Rugged, Tough, Exhausting and You Need To Do It

This one kicked my ass.

As beautiful as it was, there were some rough times.

But it was so worth it!

The view from the top of Kendrick Mountain. You can see the San Francisco Peaks in Flagstaff ahead.

So here's the deal. This hike is tough. Get ready to earn those muscular thighs. But, wow the feeling I had after finishing this hike (After the 5 hour nap I took) was pure excitement. I was a) proud of finishing it and b) so happy to experience all this hike has to offer.

I did this hike when I was just starting to get into hiking (in 2012) so I plan on doing it again to see if it is as tough as I remember.

Hikers can expect to run into deer, elk, cows, birds and potentially black bears on this hike (be sure to look up in the trees!).  You will see beautiful trees and from the top you can see the Grand Canyon.

Switchbacks became my best friend.

Hike details:

• 5 to 6 hours roundtrip
• roughly 9 miles roundtrip
• The trail spits out onto a helicopter landing pad. We laid down on it to recuperate for the hike back down.
• You will reach a cabin about 4.25 miles up. This is NOT the end of the trail. Be sure to keep going all the way to the helicopter pad.
• You gain almost 3,000 feet in elevation.

Standing on the helicopter pad at the very top.

What to bring:

• Water. A lot of it. We both finished a full Camelbak.
• Food- a 5-6 hour hike is going to wear you out. We brought granola bars and some fruit. 
• Toilet paper (I mean, you never know).
• Bear spray
• Cell phone
• Sunglasses/hat
• Sunscreen/chapstick
• Remember to pack out whatever you pack in.

Directions:
From Flagstaff take highway 180 north to FR 193, about 10 miles north of the turnoff to Snowbowl. Turn left onto FR 193 and continue to FR 171 and turn right. Go 2 miles to FR 190 and turn right. The parking area is 1 mile ahead.

The hike is shaded in most areas as you scale the switchbacks.