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I’ve camped off-grid plenty of times in my life, but this was my first time doing it solo. No service, no GPS, no lifeline—just me, Dustcatcher, and a little forest road leading into the unknown.

Cottonwood Lake, tucked just 14 miles outside of Afton, WY, came highly recommended by locals. Their advice was spot on—but I’ll admit, driving in solo with no signal had me doing the classic “what if” spiral. What if I get a flat tire? Could I change it by myself on a remote dirt road with the camper on my truck? (Let’s be honest—I probably wouldn’t even try. I’d rather hoof it out and call a tow like a wilderness damsel in distress, lol)

But the deeper I got, the more my worries started to quiet. This is a popular spot with consistent traffic, and worst case, I have two legs and plenty of water and food. It was a good reminder: I’m more prepared and capable than I give myself credit for. And what was waiting at the end of that dirt road? Absolute magic.

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How to Experience Cottonwood Lake

📍 Getting There:

• Location: Cottonwood Lake
• Distance from Afton, WY: ~14 miles
• Road Conditions: Last 6 miles are on a well-maintained dirt Forest Service road. AWD or 4×4 recommended.
• Vehicle Used: Dustcatcher (a 4×4 F350 with a lightweight camper) handled it like a dream—strong, steady, and smooth.
• The Drive: Scenic all the way up—river views, mountain peaks, wildlife sightings (deer, chipmunks, and more).

🏕 Setting Up Camp

Setting up camp was blissfully simple. I pulled into a spacious site, leveled out the truck in minutes, and just like that—home for the weekend. The site had its own fire pit and picnic table, and was perfectly spaced for both privacy and peace of mind. The scent of pine and the sound of nearby creeks created an atmosphere that was calming and grounding. One of the best parts? I never had to pack or unpack—one of the many joys of traveling with a truck camper. Cottonwood Lake was just a five-minute walk from camp, and every time I reached the water’s edge, I felt like I was stepping into a postcard.

🎣 Fishing Adventures (and Misadventures)

Before the trip, I asked Vance if I could borrow one of his rods. His response? “Why don’t you just get your own?” And honestly, that was exactly the nudge I needed. So I bought my very first fishing rod, then realized I had to spool the reel—something I had never done. Thankfully, I had the foresight to download a YouTube tutorial before losing cell service. I followed along in my camper that first night and was pretty proud of my handiwork. The next morning, however, I discovered the term “bird nesting”—a perfect (and frustrating) way to describe the tangled mess that kept forming with most of my casts. Turns out I overspooled it. I didn’t catch a single fish, but I gained a lot of respect for all the prep Vance has done for me over the years. It was a fun, humbling learning curve and made me even more excited to try again soon—hopefully with fewer tangles and maybe even a fish 😉

🥾 Slide Lake Hike:

• Trail Info: 2 miles round trip from Cottonwood Lake, <200 ft elevation gain.
• Trail Highlights: Meadows full of wildflowers, big mountain views, and a peaceful, remote feeling as you hike in.
• Safety: Hiked with others and carried bear spray.
• Wildlife Bonus: Watched a mama moose and her energetic baby frolic in the lake—pure joy and a total highlight.

🫎 Moose Encounters

Cottonwood Lake ended up being the ultimate moose-watching destination. One evening, I saw a bull moose wading along the edge of the lake, taking slow, deliberate gulps of water and scanning his surroundings like a quiet guardian of the forest. I sat and watched him for a good 30 minutes, completely mesmerized, until the sun started to dip behind the peaks. Then, that same night, I looked up from my camper window and saw him—again—walking through my camp, no more than 20 feet away. I didn’t even think to grab my camera; I was too caught up in the moment. That image, his presence, is something I’ll never forget.

🌲 Final Reflections

This trip gave me space—to reflect, to reset, and to reconnect with myself. I’ve always loved sharing adventures with Vance, our girls, and friends, but this solo trip reminded me that I’m good company too. I felt strong, capable, and grounded. The solitude wasn’t lonely—it was peaceful. And there’s something deeply empowering about facing the unknown and realizing you can handle it. Cottonwood Lake gave me that. It’s a place where the air is clearer, the thoughts are quieter, and everything just feels a little more real. If you ever get the chance to go, I can’t recommend it enough!

There’s something wildly liberating about rolling into a national park solo, climbing out of your rig, and heading straight for the trail. On a recent solo trip in Dustcatcher (my trusty truck camper), I got to experience that kind of freedom firsthand in Grand Teton National Park—and I want to help you do the same!

Whether you’re looking for an easy intro hike or want to skip the crowds for a more secluded experience, this guide has you covered.

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Why This Trail?

Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point offer the perfect balance: iconic views, manageable mileage, and a range of hiking options depending on your preference for solitude, scenery, or convenience.

My goals for this solo hike:

• Stay on a well-traveled trail (hello, bear safety).
• Nothing too strenuous.
• Avoid peak-season bottlenecks when possible.
• Soak up jaw-dropping views. ✅

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Know Your Options: Routes to Hidden Falls & Inspiration Point

1. Most Popular (2.1-mile loop)

• Take the Jenny Lake boat shuttle ($20 round trip for adults).
• From the dock hike to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point.
• 580 feet elevation gain.
• Ideal for: families, limited time, or those who don’t mind crowds.

2. My Choice: The Scenic Out-and-Back (5.4 miles total)

• Park at String Lake Trailhead.
• Route: String Lake Loop → Jenny Lake Loop → North Cascade Creek Trail → Hidden Falls → Inspiration Point.
• 728 feet elevation gain.
• Ideal for: anyone wanting a quieter, more immersive experience.

👉 Pro Tip: Arrive before 10am for a decent shot at parking in early summer. In early June I showed up right around 10:30am and ended up waiting about 5 minutes before a spot opened, which still wasn’t bad. But… I hear things only get busier in the summer 😉

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Trail Highlights

🌲 String Lake Trail:
Peaceful, scenic, and wildly underrated. This stretch alone made the extra miles worth it—stunning views of Jenny Lake and the surrounding peaks, all with just enough foot traffic to feel safe but not crowded.

💦 Hidden Falls:
Yes, it’s crowded. But yes, it’s also completely worth it. The falls thunder with snowmelt, the mist cools your face, and the raw power of nature drowns out the noise—literal and metaphorical.

🏞 Inspiration Point:
The name doesn’t lie. From up here, Jenny Lake sparkles, Cascade Creek roars below you, and the towering Teton peaks feel close enough to touch. Fewer people make it this far which adds to the serenity of the view.

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Solo Hiking Tips (Especially in Bear Country)

• 🐻 Carry bear spray—and know how to use it.
• 🎶 Talk, clap, or play music in more remote stretches.
• 📱 Download offline maps before you lose service.
• 🧢 Dress in layers—weather can shift fast.
• 🚶‍♀️ Choose well-traveled trails if you’re hiking alone.
• 📷 Take a pic of the trail map before you head out.
• 💡 Tell someone your plan.

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Final Thoughts

Whether you take the shuttle or trek the longer route like I did, Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point are worthy destinations. Personally, if I’m able I’ll always choose a slightly longer, quieter hike over a crowded shortcut. And honestly, solo hiking in the Tetons wasn’t intimidating thanks to my having realistic goals and planning ahead. So get out and EXPLORE, even if it’s solo!

Looking for an unforgettable adventure in Twin Falls, Idaho? Paddle to Shoshone Falls—the “Niagara of the West”—for epic canyon views and cascading waterfalls. It’s one of the most rewarding half-day trips you can take in southern Idaho, especially if you get to share it with people you love.

Here’s everything you need to know—plus a glimpse into our own experience.

📍 Start at Centennial Waterfront Park

Launch from Centennial Waterfront Park in Twin Falls. It’s the easiest access point to paddle the Snake River upstream toward Shoshone Falls.

My brother Trace and his wife Sheri suggested this route to us, and we jumped at the chance to meet up for some quality time on the water. Spoiler alert: it did not disappoint!

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🛶 Rentals & Gear

If you don’t have your own boat, you can rent from AWOL Adventure Sports right at the park. Vance and I rented a paddleboard and a sit-on-top kayak—$45 each for 6 hours, which is just about perfect for the round trip.

Trace and Sheri brought their own kayaks, and all of us were grinning from the moment we hit the water. There’s something really special about paddling through a canyon with people who share your sense of adventure.

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🌊 What to Expect on the Water

You’ll paddle upstream along the Snake River, surrounded by steep canyon walls and stunning desert scenery. About halfway to the falls, you’ll reach Pillar Falls, a dramatic series of smaller waterfalls framed by towering rhyolite rock formations.

⛔️ You’ll need to portage around Pillar Falls—a 200-yard carry that requires two people per boat. It’s not too difficult, but it does add to the workout. Think of it as an adventure bonus. 😉

Pillar Falls is beautiful enough to be a standalone destination, but we pressed on. And I’m so glad we did.

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🚫 About Swimming at Pillar Falls

Even if water levels seem low in summer, don’t swim here. The undercurrents are deceptively strong and have proven dangerous. Explore the rock formations on foot, but stay dry.

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🪂 Bonus Sight: BASE Jumpers at Perrine Bridge

If you time it right, your paddle might come with a side of adrenaline—from someone else. The I.B. Perrine Bridge, which you’ll paddle under early in your journey, is one of the only places in the U.S. where BASE jumping is legal year-round without a permit.

We lucked out and saw five jumpers launch off the bridge around 10 a.m.—and it was absolutely wild. Watching them float down with such control and fearlessness was nothing short of inspiring.

You’ve got to respect BASE jumpers. I mean… I’d never do it, but I totally get why someone would. Maybe I’m a little crazy for admiring them so much. (Yeah, probably.)

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🤯 The Payoff: Shoshone Falls

Just when your arms are getting tired (it’s actually not bad), you round a bend—and suddenly, Shoshone Falls roars into view. Towering 212 feet high and 900 feet wide, it’s a surreal experience to see it from the water.

Honestly, I was stunned. The size, the sound, the spray—it stopped me mid-paddle. I never thought we’d be able to float right up to the base of something so powerful and majestic.

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💨 Plan for Wind

Ironically, the return trip can be tougher than the upstream paddle. In the afternoon, wind often blows upstream, making it feel like you’re paddling into a headwind even as the current flows with you.

If you’re on a paddleboard, kneel or sit to avoid turning into a human sail. Trust me—your legs (and your pride) will thank you.

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❤️ Why This Trip Meant So Much

This paddle wasn’t just about the scenery. It was about sharing it—with Trace and Sheri, who we don’t get to see nearly enough, and with Vance, who makes every adventure better!

I’m so grateful for this life we’re living—a life where we can say yes to spontaneous adventures, where we can meet up with family in wild places, and where our “weekend plans” often look like this: fresh air, sore arms, and memories we’ll never forget.

This trip reminded me why we chase experiences over comfort and why we keep choosing the open road, together.

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Final Tips

• Trip length: 8 miles round trip
• Time needed: 5–6 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate (due to distance, wind, and portage)
• Bring: Sunscreen, plenty of water, water shoes, dry bag, snacks, and a buddy per boat

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🧭 The Bottom Line

If you’re in Twin Falls and want a half-day adventure that combines natural beauty, physical challenge, and unforgettable moments—paddle to Shoshone Falls. Do it with people you love, and I promise: it’ll be one of those stories you’ll tell again and again.

We’ve dreamed of exploring the Tetons for years, and this summer, we’re finally making it happen! Vance’s birthday hike was our second adventure here and we celebrated by hiking 6 miles through the mountains, soaking in stunning views, and earning those ice-cold post-hike beers!

From trailhead to brewery, here’s everything you need to know to plan the perfect birthday hike in Grand Teton National Park and Jackson, Wyoming—plus a few lessons we learned along the way.

📍 Trailhead Details: Taggart & Bradley Lake Loop

• Location: Grand Teton National Park
• Trailhead: Taggart Lake Trailhead
• All Trails link: click here
• Distance: ~6 miles round trip
• Elevation Gain: ~750 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate (manageable but includes some steep slopes, muddy and snowy sections in spring)
• Best Time to Hike: Late May–October (snow may linger in spring)
• Highlights:
  • Stunning views of the Teton Range
  • Two incredible lakes!
  • Wildlife sightings (moose, elk, marmots, and more)
  • In late May you’ll experience a mix of the seasons: summer temps, spring blooms, and traces of winter snow

🏔️ Why Hike This Trail?

Taggart and Bradley Lakes offer two distinct perspectives of the Tetons—Taggart’s views are wide-open and sweeping, while Bradley feels more secluded, tucked into the trees with fewer crowds.

For us, it was also about seeing the contrast:

• In March, we snowshoed the Taggart Lake Loop (highly recommend btw!).
• In May, we added Bradley and saw the landscape transform.
  It felt like hiking through a time-lapse of seasons: snowy patches fading into wildflowers, and warm sun melting away the chill.

If you’re short on time or new to the area, this loop packs in big mountain views, accessible trail conditions, and a satisfying sense of accomplishment without a full-day commitment.

🥾 Tips for Hiking the Taggart & Bradley Lakes Loop

✔️ Start Early – The parking lot fills up fast, and the afternoon sun can get intense.
✔️ Wear Waterproof Boots – Especially in spring, expect mud, snow, and small streams.
✔️ Bring Layers – We experienced summer warmth, chilly breezes, and a few snowy patches all in one hike.
✔️ Don’t skip Bradley Lake – The extra 2 miles (round trip) is a small price for a quieter, more intimate view of the Tetons.
✔️ Watch for Wildlife – We saw moose tracks and plenty of critters—be bear aware and follow park guidelines.
✔️ Pack Snacks & Water – And don’t forget your camera; you’ll want it.

🍻 Brews with Views: StillWest Brewery & Grill

After the hike, we headed into Jackson for the ultimate reward: a cold beer and a hearty meal at StillWest Brewery & Grill.

Here’s why it’s a must-stop:

• The View: Mountainside dining with Snow King Mountain in the backdrop.
• The Vibe: Casual yet elevated, with an open-air patio and a bar facing the brewhouse.
• The Food: Not just brewery bites—think smoked duck breast with spaetzle, sirloin with grilled potato salad, and desserts we definitely didn’t need (but definitely devoured).
• The Beer: Flights recommended—we tried them all!

If you’re in Jackson, treat yourself to StillWest. It’s the kind of place where you linger longer than planned because the views, the beer, and the food just won’t let you leave.

🌄 An Unforgettable Birthday Adventure

It still feels surreal that we get to live this life—celebrating milestones in places we’ve only dreamed of. Growing older with Vance, exploring the world together, and raising a toast after a long hike… it’s the adventure of a lifetime, and worth every sacrifice it took to get here.

So here’s to sore knees, stunning views, and the perfect pairing of hikes and brews!

Looking for a hike near Salt Lake City that looks like you should’ve trained for Everest—but it actually only takes half a day? Look no further than Lake Blanche in Big Cottonwood Canyon.

This trail strikes the perfect balance between accessible and awe-inspiring: 6.5-miles round trip with ~2,700 feet of elevation gain. While it’s definitely a workout, the steady incline keeps it challenging without feeling overwhelming. Plan on at least five hours to complete the hike, though you might find yourself lingering at the top just to soak it all in. (Bonus: AllTrails claims I burned around 2,800 calories—trust me, I checked after earning my post-hike pizza and beer!)

Here’s everything you need to know to tackle this unforgettable hike in the spring—plus some tips I picked up while completing it with my gritty, lifelong adventure buddies.

📍 Trailhead Details

• Trail Name: Lake Blanche Trail
• Location: Twin Peaks Wilderness, Wasatch National Forest
• Distance from Salt Lake City: ~20-min drive southeast
• Hiking Distance: ~6.5 miles round trip
• Elevation Gain: 2,726 feet
• AllTrails Listing: Lake Blanche Trail on AllTrails

🏔️ Why Hike Lake Blanche?

The views at the top make you feel like you’ve been hiking for days across epic mountain ranges—but in reality, you knocked this one out in half a day! Towering peaks, a serene alpine lake, and the sense of accomplishment that comes from conquering a physically demanding trail? Totally worth it.

🥾 Tips for Hiking Lake Blanche in the Spring

1. Be Ready for Snow
Spring means snow will still be present at the top (we completed this hike on May 9th)—so bring microspikes for your shoes. You’ll thank me when you’re not slipping, sliding, and face-planting into a snowbank. (Just search microspikes for hiking on Amazon and grab a pair—easy.)

2. Hike Early in the Day
As the sun warms the snow, it gets soft and slushy. Wait too long and you risk post-holing (falling through snow up to your knees), spraining an ankle, or worse.

3. Pack Like a Pro

• Water (2L was plenty)
• Snacks/lunch (2,800 calories doesn’t replace itself!)
• Sunscreen & hat 🔥
• Layers (you’ll be hot and cold)
• Navigation tool (AllTrails, GPS, or a good ol’ map)
• First aid kit (always)
• Trekking poles (save your knees, thank me later)
• Knife & whistle (just in case)

💪 Is It Hard?

Let’s be real: It’s a workout. I’m in decent shape (but not Everest-ready), and I made it through unscathed. If I can do it, you can too—especially if you have awesome hiking buddies to distract you from the burn with laughter, life stories, and a little grit.

👭 The Best Part: Who You Hike With

This hike was a special one for me because I tackled it with my little sister Tanya and my sister-in-law Raquel—two of the best adventure buddies a girl could ask for! Somehow, I lucked out and got these gritty, fierce women gifted into my life by blood and marriage. They push me to try harder, laugh louder, and keep showing up for life’s wildest adventures.

Here’s to chasing the next trail, soaking up that next epic view, and savoring a well-deserved post-hike meal!

They say dreams don’t work unless you do—and I admit, I’ve been working. After years of planning and stubbornly chasing a life of freedom and fresh wonder, I finally got the keys to my next big adventure: meet Dustcatcher—a white F350 4×4 with a Lance 805 camper riding proudly on its back.

Dustcatcher represents a lot more than a new set of wheels. She’s the payoff for one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made: to go back to school in my 40s and become a nurse. I walked into that first class surrounded by bright-eyed 20-somethings who had no idea I was silently panicking. But I stuck with it—every lecture, every clinical, every “what-am-I-doing” moment—because I knew I was building a life I wanted more than comfort or certainty.

I chose the name Dustcatcher not just because she kicks up a little trail magic wherever she goes—but because she’s built to chase the dusty, winding backroads where the best stories (and photos) are hiding.

His & Hers Rigs: The Adventure Begins

Now, here’s where things get really fun. While living a life of freedom and fresh wonder was still just a dream on paper, Vance floated the idea of us each having our own rig. I stared at him like he had two heads. Two rigs? For two people? Completely ridiculous.

Except… it wasn’t.

Flash forward to now, and I can’t believe I ever doubted the brilliance of that plan. Having my own space in Dustcatcher means I can come and go as I please, nest away to my heart’s content, and keep things cozy and (mostly) clutter-free. Meanwhile, Vance has fully embraced his organized chaos in Opt Out, his 2020 Wayfarer Class C motorhome. It’s stuffed with all his favorite toys—including, I kid you not, an entire homebrewing setup. Honestly, having two rigs might be the most effective form of adventure marriage therapy out there!

Our first official “his and hers” rig meetup was pure magic. Vance dropped me a pin to his campsite on BLM land in Idaho, and I plugged it into Google Maps and hit the road. When I rolled up, I saw Opt Out parked against the backdrop of stunning high-desert cliffs that looked like they were straight out of the video game Red Dead Redemption. There was Vance, grinning ear to ear, stirring a Dutch oven full of stew over an open fire while “old-timey” Western music drifted through the air. I parked Dustcatcher beside him, and just like that—we were home.

The next morning, fueled by campfire coffee and a sense of adventure, we set off to Blue Heart Springs. Vance had visited this spot before with my brother Trace and couldn’t wait to share it with me. We rented paddleboards from Blue Heart Kayaking and made our way upriver. The water was glassy and calm, and we passed wildlife galore—a bald eagle, white pelicans, beavers, and more fish than I could count.

When we reached the spring, I was floored. The water glistened a surreal deep blue, and sand bubbled up from the ground like nature’s own lava lamp. We couldn’t resist climbing the sun-baked lava rocks to explore the cliffside above. It was raw and wild up there—lizards darting, cave openings hinting at hidden lives, and two very territorial hawks circling overhead, loudly encouraging us to move along (we got the hint, eventually).

Vance found a pheasant feather and tucked it in his hat. I found a few old bones that might just become wearable art someday. It was the perfect blend of wonder, effort, and discovery—everything we love about being out here.

That day felt like the beginning of something big. Dustcatcher and Opt Out, side by side. Me and Vance, building this crazy life we’ve dreamed of. One dusty road, one bubbling spring, and one wild idea at a time.

Cheers to making dreams a reality—and to having the better rig. 😉

We knew this day would be special the moment we strapped on our snowshoes.

It was a crisp winter morning in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and Vance and I had one thing on our minds: fresh snow, fresh air, and fresh wonder. After a quick stop at Teton Mountaineering to rent snowshoes, we made our way to the Taggart Lake Trailhead in Grand Teton National Park—a relatively gentle 4-mile loop with less than 500 feet of elevation gain, but views that climb straight into the heavens.

The parking lot was full—yes, full despite the winter weather. We had to park a few cars down the road, which only made us more curious about what lay ahead. If this many people were braving the cold, it had to be good.

Spoiler alert: It was better than good.

As we trekked through the snow, it wasn’t long before the trail narrowed and the snowshoe tracks faded. We didn’t pass another soul after that point, just the faint glide marks left behind by cross-country skiers. Without those tracks—and our trusty AllTrails GPS—we might’ve wandered off into the snowy unknown. But the solitude was magical. Peaceful. Almost reverent.

We crossed a charming snow-covered bridge and began the gentle climb up, pausing often just to take in the sweeping views of the valley and mountains beyond. Little streams peeked through the snowy canvas below us, whispering beneath the surface, reminding us that even in the deep of winter, life hums along.

The landscape looked like something straight out of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. A glistening blanket of snow covered everything in sight, and the Teton Range stood proudly in the distance, towering above the valley like ancient guardians: Grand Teton, Mount Owen, Teewinot, Middle Teton, Nez Perce, and Mount Wister. Some peaks were hidden by cloud cover, but their majesty still echoed all around us.

And then, as all great Wired to Explore adventures go… we followed the views with brews.

Snake River Brewing in Jackson Hole welcomed us like only Wyoming can—with hearty elk dishes and top-notch beer. I warmed up with elk chili while Vance dove into the elk bolognese. We shared a grapefruit, roasted beet, and candied walnut salad (so good), plus a creamy smoked trout dip that I’m still dreaming about.

And then came the beer. Two flights, eight varieties, zero regrets. The standout? A Rice Lager that blew us away with its depth and complexity. Vance said it best: “Most rice lagers lack the layers of flavors that other beers offer—but Snake River Brewing has nailed this recipe.”

From snow-covered serenity to sips and savory bites, this day was everything we dreamed of when we set out on this travel nursing adventure journey. Grateful doesn’t even begin to cover it.

Here’s to more snowy trails, mountain views, and of course… brews with views!

Craving more? Check out the video of this adventure here: https://youtu.be/G_zAsSLzdJc?si=YIgJXErKQdEtvyZ6

There’s a unique kind of thrill in setting off on a solo road trip — just me, my car packed to the brim, and thousands of miles of open road ahead. But this journey has been about so much more than simply getting from point A to B. This is the start of an adventure I’ve dreamed of for years requiring sacrifice, planning, and sheer determination. And I wouldn’t be here without the unwavering encouragement (and occasional push) from Vance, who always believed in me and this wild dream. Now, with the road stretching out before me, I could feel it — this is where our next chapter truly begins.

Days 1 & 2: Making Miles & Catching Up in Texas

The first two days were all about covering ground. I started with an 8.5 hour drive to Pensacola, FL, checked into a hotel, squeezed in a quick workout, and got some rest before hitting the road early. Another 8.5-hour stretch brought me to Houston, where I stayed with one of my favorite humans, Pascale, and her sweet pup, Kenga. We spent the evening catching up, reminiscing, and laughing until late. The next morning, we grabbed coffee and breakfast before I got back on the road.

Day 3: Quirky Stops & Texas BBQ

I covered another 8 hours, stopping for a photo op at the world’s largest shovel (because why not?) and doing some handstands along the way. Dinner was at an excellent Texas BBQ spot—because no road trip through Texas is complete without it.

Day 4: Dust Storm Drama

Left at 5:30 AM to dodge an insane windstorm… which worked, at first. But by the time I hit southeast Colorado, I was stuck in a whiteout dust storm for two hours. Visibility was near zero, so I pulled over—thankfully. A wreck happened just 500 feet ahead of me, but I couldn’t see it until the dust settled. A semi hit a car towing an ATV, and then a police cruiser rear-ended the semi. If I’d kept going, I might’ve been part of that pileup.

Once the storm cleared, I made my way to Denver, where I met my niece’s newborn baby and then drove to my brother’s horse ranch in Longmont to cozy up for the night.

Day 5: Ranch Life & More Weather Woes

The morning started crisp and cold as I helped my sister-in-law feed over 40 horses at Wildsong Ranch. After soaking up some quality horse time, I hit the road for what should have been the final leg—seven hours to Afton, WY.

But Mother Nature had other plans.

Just 90 minutes from my destination, I ran into a snowstorm and a wreck blocking all lanes. With only two hours until sunset, I wasn’t about to risk driving mountain roads in the dark. So, I turned around, found a hotel 45 minutes away, and treated myself to a big steak dinner and a glass of wine. First-world problems.

Day 6: Finally, Afton!

The next morning, the sun was shining, and I was determined to make it. I stocked up on de-icer, winter gloves, and an ice scraper before setting off. The last two hours of the drive were breathtaking—snow-dusted mountains, winding valleys, and perfectly plowed roads (shoutout to the snowplows and my trusty Subaru!).

Pulling into Afton felt surreal. Nestled in Star Valley, this place looks like a scene straight out of an old western. And the people? Incredibly warm and welcoming. I can’t wait to explore every inch of this stunning landscape.

Let the epic adventures begin!

Wired To Explore Season 5 Brews With Views Roadtrip.

For this years Wired To Explore Brews with Views road trip I drove up from Florida to explore the Parkersburg WV and Belpre Ohio area.

I had planned to start right away by touring local breweries and if possible meet up with local home brewers for some brewing collaborations.

Those plans came to a screeching halt when I was greeted with a polar vortex and negative temperatures. I lost power at my campground and had to purchase the last propane heater at the local hardware store just to stay warm. Even with the propane heater it was very difficult to stay warm in -9 degree temps and the snow fell for days. 

While I was holed up in the motorhome I got onto facebook and reached out to the Infamous Parkersburg Alers, IPA for short. They are the local home brewing club that covers the Ohio River area. They posted they were going to hold a get-together at the Parkersburg Brewing Company the next month. Before the meet up I decided to take a tour of the Parkersburg Brewing Company to learn how they brew their beers. My tour guide was none other than Zach, the brewer who was responsible for brewing the latest Citrus Tsunami, a delicious IPA that I keep getting on draft.

The brewery tour was very informative. The brewery is cleverly set up with the mash tun and boil kettle on the first floor with the fermenters and small canning line in the basement. They use the classic electric chain and disk system to get their grains from the basement up to the mash tun. The main brewer and partners really did an amazing job setting up the perfectly sized fermenters and bright takes in the basement to maximize the use of space.

 

After the tour I met up with the Infamous Parkersburg Alers in the tap room. These home brewers were awesome. They brought their home brews to share with the group. They all had some damn fine home brews with a couple I had to keep sampling because they were so good.

I told the group I had a dilemma. I was traveling with my one gallon home brew set up but had picked up a five gallon recipe of Black IPA from Clawhammer Supply.  I wanted to break up the grain bill into smaller one gallon batches. Smaller batches mean I can experiment with different methods and ingredients with each brew. What I had not expected was the grains to come double crushed and pre mixed. There was no way to accurately split up the grain for smaller batches.

 

One of the home brewers, Jeff,  was gracious enough to invite me to brew my Black IPA at his home brewery. What an awesome experience. I used his ten gallon brew in a bag setup on a large induction plate. We followed the recipe and split the batch. My new home brewing friend had a larger fermenter and decided he would dry hop his batch once it was done fermenting.

 

I took a little over one gallon of wort to ferment in my mini corny keg. I decided to pressure ferment my batch but the spunding valve had been completely closed so after 24 hours I noticed the pressure gauge needle was not at the 8 to 10 psi I had previously set the valve for. To check to see if fermentation was taking place I popped off the spunding valve and connected a gas ball valve with silicone hose running into star san. As soon as I switched over to the silicone hose I blew star san all over my motorhome. I quickly replaced the spunding valve back on the keg and realized the reason the pressure needle was not at the 8 psi mark was because it had maxed out at 40 psi and I not paying attention as I thought the needle was still on zero. I slowly lowered the pressure down to 8 psi and hoped I didn’t just murder all my yeast.

 

To my surprise the fermentation continued and I maintained a pressure of 8 to 10 psi for the next six days. With the fermentation complete I cold crashed the mini keg in my motorhome mini fridge. It got cold enough in here because the outside temp was in the 20’s.

 

A couple weeks later I took my finished beer over to Jeff’s to do a taste comparison. His black IPA was smooth and delicious with an incredible fresh hops aroma from his dry hopping. My batch came out almost as delicious with the slightest bitterness on the back end. I decided to let this Black IPA age a little longer and do another taste test today.