Reflections on 2015

So much changes in a year, and so much stays the same. Jobs and people come and go out of our lives, but our wild places, our places of beauty and solitude, remain. With so many truly beautiful outdoor spaces to be thankful for, many of them close to home, I feel blessed. It is my hope that by sharing my love of these places, others will come to love them as well, leading to their preservation for future generations.





The Ice Age Trail is built and beautifully maintained by volunteers. A big thank you to the many volunteers who maintain and build the sections of trail we all very much love and enjoy.

January hike on the Ice Age Trail - Merrimac Segment.

Mild in temperature as far as Wisconsin winters go, the winter of 2014-2015 proved fantastic for hiking. In the southern half of the state, the snow never got especially deep. I hiked the entire winter in waterproof sneakers and gaiters. Few days dipped below 0°F (-18°C).

Rainy day family in camp.

Sun on the portage trail after a rainy night feels incredible.

Making good memories on the portage between Malberg and Koma Lakes in the BWCA.

A great year for eagle spotting.

Cheers to a year of outdoorsy fun. Looking forward to more in 2016! Don't forget, today's the day for your first day hike. Let's bundle up and kick-off the new year right!