Virgin Falls State Natural areaVirgin Falls TrailType of trail: out and backLength: 8.2 miles round tripdifficulty (according to Mild America): 5.5 out of 10highlights: multiple waterfalls, camping is available in many areas near the falls, many types of trees For my birthday I wanted a great hike with lots of wildlife and waterfalls. Virgin Falls Natural area in Sparta Tennessee fit the bill. Middle Tennessee is filled with waterfalls. Growing up in west Tennessee I never knew this but ... Read More
Hiking
Every woman needs to know how to hike alone
It all started a few months shy of my 30th birthday. We were new in town and eager to hang out with some of my husband's coworkers on a Saturday night. it was the night that would change my life. Roller derby. I watched my first bout and was hooked. Now, I am rather unathletic and NOT graceful. SO I'm not exactly sure what made me so determined to try out but I did. Even after years of practice, I was NOT good. Just ok. But the lessons I learned while playing derby were invaluable to my ... Read More
Perfect gifts for the beginning hiker (all under $40)
This page contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may receive a commission (at no additional cost to you). Thanks for your support! Looking to get a new hiker or backpacker a fun yet useful gift? You're in the right place! Getting serious about hiking can be confusing and expensive. Most of my suggestions are much-needed items but I've thrown in a couple of fun ones. Plus everything is under $40! Compass Everyone needs a compass and more importantly, how ... Read More
Go backpacking? Am I ready?
I'm a well-tread day hiker through and through. Recently me and my husband have been contemplating taking it up a notch to backpacking. We know we won't be thru-hikers but doing a 4 or 5 day hike would be exhilarating. But I'm not sure I'm ready. I have so many questions and doubts. About 3 years ago I got it stuck in my head that I was going to walk the John Muir Trail. I researched all kinds of things ie trails, gear, weather. So, for a test run, we would do an overnight trip not far from ... Read More