by In Olympic National Park, bridges serve many functions. They obviously help us cross rivers, keep out feet dry and get us from Point A to Point B, but they also do so much more. They act as gateways; serving as portals to wilderness and adventure over deep ravines and stunning box canyons. The bridges of Olympic …
What the New NPS Mask Requirement Means For National Park Visitors
On February 2nd, 2021, nearly a full year after Covid-19 infected every aspect of life in the United States and around the world, a mask requirement has been issued for all National Park lands. It is straight forward and very simple to follow, helping to keep everyone safe.
Behind the Picture: A Year Along the Same Spot of the Yellowstone River
There is this view along the Yellowstone River that I have taken a picture at hundreds of times a year. I stand on a mostly flat rock a few steps up on the levee, next to Sacajawea Park in the small town of Livingston, Montana and snap away. Looking up a side channel of the …
Behind the Picture: The Family and the Fox in Yellowstone National Park
It is easy to look at a picture and assume we know the story of the scene. Our brains quickly and happily create a narrative, but few know what really happened when the shutter clicked and the image was captured. In this weekly series, I’ll be going behind the scenes of one of my pictures, …
Trail Running and Hiking in Grizzly Country with Scatbelt: A Review
Those who frequent trails in bear country know that you should never be without your trusty bear spray. More successful at preventing a bear attack than guns, bear spray has quickly become another essential everyone needs. Yet, for many outdoor enthusiasts, finding a comfortable, accessible place to hold your bear spray can be a challenge. …
Forest Fire Causes Closure of Popular Hiking Trail in Olympic National Park and Forest
Heading to Lena Lake, Upper Lena Lake or The Brothers? You’ll need to change your plans. A press release sent out by Olympic National Park and Forest is letting people know that this popular hiking destination on the east side of the Olympic Peninsula is now closed to hiking due to a forest fire that has …
The Fate of the Chalet in the Valley
The most famous building in Olympic National Park isn’t found on a park road or an easy to get to trail. Instead, it is buried deep in the rainforest along the Quinault River. Thirteen miles from the nearest parking lot, the Enchanted Valley Chalet has been a backpacking destination for generations. For many, a trip …
Happy Birthday, Olympic National Park!!
On June 29th, 1938, Olympic National Park was officially designated as a National Park by President Franklin Roosevelt, forever changing the landscape of the Olympic Peninsula of Washington State. For the past 82 years, Olympic National Park has been captivating the hearts and imaginations of wilderness explorers of all ages, enticing a deeper connection with …
Behind the Scenes: A Yellowstone Bear Jam
Seeing a bear in Yellowstone is a highlight for many, helping to cement the first National Park as a favorite place to return year after year. There is nothing quite like rounding a corner and seeing one of North America’s most magnificent creatures roaming through the sage or forests. The one thing that is often …
Weird Times in Wonderful Places: One Last Trip Into Yellowstone During COVID-19
On March 23rd, I decided to take a trip into Yellowstone National Park, a short drive from my current location. I had a feeling it may be my last trip into the park for awhile and I was right. The following is a story I wrote for a new podcast I am a part of, …