Last Updated on May 16, 2024 by foxintheforest Every time I enter the Big Ditch I feel like I’m falling into a kaleidoscope. Ever-changing landscapes, histories, and wildlife always surprise you here. And nothing fed that feeling more than backpacking the Royal Arch Loop. This little-known, rugged trail is the most difficult of all the advertised routes that the NPS lets you to know about. Their one-pager comes with a serious warning: “This hike offers about a million ways to get into serious trouble in a remote part of the Grand Canyon.” – National Parks Service. And frankly, they aren’t wron ..read more

Last Updated on May 3, 2024 by foxintheforest Sticky granite and high-flying exposure sound like your idea of a good time. Then look no further than Music Mountain in Colorado’s Sangre de Cristo Mountains. I’ve long been on the hunt for the perfect peak here in Colorado – I’ve summited over 70. And Music Mountain is the top contender when it comes to sheer fun. Many people don’t know about the Southern Ridge of this stunning peak, but that’s because the 14ers.com route description calls this a snowclimb. It’s not. Unlike most snow climbs, you can actually do this when it’s snow-free – in fact ..read more

Lake Tahoe offers something for everyone, from incredible mountain scenery to stunning turquoise water and sandy beaches to top-tier casinos and fantastic nightlife. But how do you decide between visiting North Lake vs South Lake Tahoe? I’ve got you covered with all the insider details about both sides of Lake Tahoe, so you can pick the one that’s right for you. If you’re looking for local advice on choosing between North Lake vs South Lake Tahoe, you’re in the right place. I’ve spent the last 22 years visiting Lake Tahoe every year! After my family moved here 22 years ago, I started spending ..read more

The Crestone Traverse is known as one of the 4 Great Traverses in Colorado. This means it’s supposedly one of the best 14er routes in the state. But does the Crestone Traverse live up to the hype? We’ll dive right into what makes this route such a thrill-seeking adventure. Having climbed over 65 mountains I’m pretty picky when it comes to Colorado scrambles and peaks. I’ve actually the Crestone Needle multiple times and done every route on the mountain. You’ll get expert advice on everything you need to know to have a rockin’ good time on the Crestone Traverse. About this Guide to the Crestone ..read more

I’ll never forget spending the night at the Granite Park Chalet in Glacier National Park with my 15-month-old daughter. Simply put, it was an incredible experience. The stunning mountain views, amazing hospitality, and surprisingly solid night’s sleep in this iconic hut aren’t something I’ll forget. Inside this guide to the Granite Park Chalet, I’ll give you pro advice for visiting, including what it’s like to take a baby for an overnight adventure in this locale. About this Guide to the Granite Park Chalet Here’s what you’ll find in the guide: Tips to secure your Granite Park Chalet reservat ..read more

Last Updated on March 26, 2024 by foxintheforest Combine views of still snow-covered mountains with warmer spring weather by visiting Colorado in April. It’s a great time to explore the state to catch the tail end of ski season or head to the lower elevations and desert landscapes to play outside in Colorado in April. I’ve lived in Colorado for nearly 15 years now, and April in Colorado is an okay time to visit. It’s hard to find the quintessential mountain experience, and burly spring snowstorms can make travel difficult. But if you’re looking to explore Colorado during some of the quieter mo ..read more

Dream of going to the Grand Canyon for the epic views and breathtaking landscape…but don’t dream of doing it while melting in the heat surrounded by huge crowds? You can make this dream a reality if you know the best month to visit the Grand Canyon! While summer might seem like a great time for a vacation, it’s not actually the best time of year to visit the Grand Canyon for many reasons. When you’re trying to figure out the best month to visit the Grand Canyon, you need advice from a seasoned expert, and I’ve got you covered. I’ve had countless adventures in the Grand Canyon at all times of t ..read more

Soaking in the sprawling view of the Grand Canyon is an iconic experience on many bucket lists. But for a unique perspective of this incredible landscape, the Rim to Rim Grand Canyon hike takes you deep into the canyon to a place most people will never see. In fact, only 5% of visitors to the Grand Canyon go below the rim, and only a small percentage of those make it all the way to the river. My specialty in the Grand Canyon is off-the-beaten-path, hidden gems outside of the Rim-to-Rim Corridor. So instead of me telling the story, I’m handing things off to my long-time writer for Fox in the Fo ..read more

If you’re looking to jump into the wonderful (and funky) world of technical slot canyons, look no further than Baptist Draw. Located in the San Rafael Swell of Southern Utah, Baptist Draw offers an excellent introduction to canyoneering. You’ll get a bit of everything – stunning narrows, plenty of high stemming, chimney climbing, tight squeezes, and a stunning rappel. As an avid rock climber, mountaineer, and budding canyoneer, you’ll get top-notch advice about everything you need to know for a fun-filled trip into the depths of Baptist Draw. I’ve been canyoneering and exploring the San Rafael ..read more

Colorado has a whopping 42 state parks, with 10 of those right near Denver. When it comes to finding awesome state parks near Denver, you’re literally spoiled for choice. Colorado state parks offer a wide variety of recreation activities from boating to multi-pitch rock climbing. We are quite spoiled here in the Centennial State, especially with such a variety of parks located right next to the Mile High City. I regularly spend time in Colorado State Parks – I’m in Eldo or Staunton almost every week! As a long-time Colorado local (15 years and counting) I’ve spent tons of time at each of these ..read more