Exploring the Great Outdoors and Beyond; Gear-Ready From Trailhead to Campsite!
After 1 year of extensive travel exploring the great outdoors, specifically the National Parks across The United States, I realized I had a story to tell. Even if that story was to be laid out in written format, I wanted to share the adventure of how I successfully traveled to 62/63 in under 350 days. By way of publishing mini Guides, I offer solo-travelers like me, the tools to travel, hike and explore efficiently, albeit, with confidence. In general, much of the content is dedicated to the procurement and proper usage of “tried and true” tested products to remain Gear-Ready from trailhead to campsite.
Indeed, the information I cover is a great fit for small groups, families and solo hikers alike. For example, hiking gear and driving routes can be universally applied to most itineraries. Available to copy or download, the collection of gear and packing checklists separated by activity type, including group size and season of travel is sure to maintain organization. Check out the mini Guides on the National Parks and idea boards for recreation when building a travel itinerary.
Trailhead to Campsite
Public Lands Content
I’ve intentionally drawn a clear line between my professional life in the lab and the adventurous spirit of this website. For that reason, conversations here will focus exclusively on medicines that intersect with the joys of hiking, boating, and travel adventures. Get ready to dive into a treasure trove of articles, from in-depth gear reviews to all things camping, and prepare to be transported to the breathtaking vistas of our National Parks, Forests and Public Lands.
Ten Essentials
Equip yourself for the ultimate family-friendly camping journey with my precision-crafted downloadable checklists. Streamline your adventure with a selection of affiliated links, each tailor-made for your convenience, featuring top-tier camping essentials.
Moreover, for the avid backpacker, I’ve distilled the vital Ten Essentials into a series of sleek and indispensable lists. These checklists are meticulously optimized to be lightweight and comprehensive, ensuring you’re equipped for nearly any scenario nature throws your way.
Remember, it’s about packing with purpose — gearing up for preparedness with nothing superfluous. Choose to travel smart, equipped with only what you need for a memorable and secure outdoor experience.
Disclaimer: I may earn a small commission for qualifying purchases via affiliated links. In either case, there is no additional cost to you.
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Water Sports
I’ve loved water activities like rafting, swimming, and SCUBA diving across North America for over 30 years. The excitement and peace I find in these sports are really important to me. Whenever I’m in the water, I feel like I’m in a special place. These sports have also made me want to take care of our water places so they stay beautiful for others in the future. My passion for being in the water hasn’t faded over the years. I always look forward to my next water adventure.
Pastime-Fishing
Given that many of the National Parks offer world class angling; arriving with more than a rod, reel and bait will ensure that you make the most of your time fishing. Accordingly, be sure to check the permits or licenses you will need prior to dropping your line in the water.
Boat Trips and Ferries
Kick off those hiking boots and come splash around and check out some super cool rivers, seashores, and lakefronts that are totally wild and stunning. Whenever you’re itching to hit the trails again, just head back to basecamp and dive into all the cool posts about hikes, spotting wildlife, and camping tips for when you’re all about that altitude life. But hey, if chilling on the water is more your jam, just keep on clicking through this section for all the best water-filled vacay vibes.
Recreation On Our Public Lands Is A Pastime One Has An Opportunity To Enjoy With Family, In Groups Or Solo. nps.gov
Trails and Waterways to Discover
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About Me
jenonthetrail.com
A spirit nurtured in the great outdoors; it quickly became apparent to me that although I’m tethered to society in many ways, I relish in embracing solitude. Honing in on my skill set and fueled by a bundle of kinetic energy, I rely on how I gear up for preparedness. Through sometimes painful learning, I share and grow with an ever present community of solo travelers.
The One That Got Away
In 2013, I completed a “Mighty-5” Utah trip and awakened my childhood passion of exploring national parks. By the close of 2019, I had made my way through one-quarter of the national parks in the United States of America.
Starting in April of 2021, I revved up my approach to completing adventures in the United States and embarked on the quest to visit all 63 national parks. Primarily a solo endeavor, I planned to complete a visit to all within 363 days.
A two-fold journey, I had 2 goals which were similar in distance within the same timeframe. The first, to visit the 50 capitol buildings of the United States and second, to visit all 63 national parks. As for the results, I successfully photographed the capitol building in each of the 50 states; yet when it came to the national parks, I have “one” that got away.
The Great Outdoors
I was raised with a keen appreciation of wildlife and grateful for the opportunity to view a wide diversity of species at a very young age. Upon completion of the first of a series of walking safaris at the age of seven, I abandoned the idea that nature is to be observed from the sidelines and behind glass windows.
From the veldt in Kruger National Park to the “American Serengeti” found within the borders of Yellowstone National Park, I have gazed with a watchful eye and witnessed wildlife in their own habitat.
By way of supplementing my wildlife experiences with science, I completed a course in wildlife monitoring. Having completed my naturalist certification in freshwater systems and ocean systems from The University of Florida in 2023, I am establishing a pathway towards becoming a master naturalist.
Packing for preparedness
As a means to provide a tankful of trek ideas for solo hikers and family adventurers, I have published “mini guides”, gear checklists and travel tips for this growing community. These serve as an adjuvant and in some cases replace lengthy research when planning recreation in the National Parks and Forests in the United States.
I am hopeful that through this blog and taking similar adventures, readers will continue to grow with me!
Dynamic Earth
From time to time, blog topics will cover geology and meteorology and we may delve into discovering more about the 5 biomes. These dynamics create marvelous landscapes which are showcased in our national parks. In fact, wind, water, ice and heat are the most fastidious of artisans; their works tell a story we have only begun to understand.
Wildlife Encounters and Field Guides
Observation of wildlife in their natural habitat leads to a collection of data, photographs and memories. Altogether, hours of watching animals, leads to a deeper appreciation of the organisms which inhabit our Earth .
Living on the Edge
Throughout the national parks, life on the edge captivates visitors as they marvel at the display of colors, textures and the bizarre. Extreme conditions tell the grand story of the survival as halophiles and thermophiles in the national parks. For instance, lack of precipitation in the four regions that represent the desert biome in North America give rise to peculiar lifeforms and unique species.
Be Good Stewards of The Environment from Trailhead to Campsite
The Leave no Trace principles are the gold standard in backpacking and outdoor adventures today. With this in mind, I shall mention the 7 principles of Leave no Trace on occasion in posts and pages and include a link to the website.
The Leave No Trace organization was started in 1994, while I was in my twenties. I am a true believer in these principles which have been around longer than the inception of the Leave no Trace organization. I strive to conduct myself in such a manner that upholds the principles as they mirror concepts I learned in the 1980s as a member of The Girl Scouts of America. As a note, the LNT website stresses that the 7 principles should not be paraphrased or copied without following a specific protocol. Therefore, please review the 7 Leave No Trace Principles as presented on the organization’s website by following the link below.
5 Things to Know
The 7 principles are all inclusive and need no paraphrasing. I have a list called, “5 Things to Know” that are specific to camping and recreation in the United States of America. These 5 Things to Know take into consideration helpful tools (apps and websites) for hiking in the United States and address growing concerns related to climate change, increased trail “traffic” and shifts in the culture of The Great Outdoors.
1. Before and After Every trip Outdoors: Pack for Preparedness and bring everything you brought into the Wild back out with you.
2. On Hiking and Climbing: Start at trailheads then follow posted maps and trails; specifically, do not step off trails.
3. On Camping and Campfires: Camp in approved sites, use apps and websites such as recreation.gov to secure campsites; place printed reservations on post at campsite. Additionally, only build a campfire after confirming with a park ranger or forest ranger that a burn ban is not in effect. Burn in approved fire rings with firewood that is gathered appropriately and approved at your specific campsite.
4. When going into The Backcountry: Secure permits and follow instructions as they relate to the permit. Always leave information with a trusted contact, not on the hike, in case of emergency.
5. When Indoors and Outdoors: Adhere to the NPS “social distancing” guidelines as it applies to wildlife and fellow travelers.
What Type of Adventure and Recreation do you prefer?
“Hiking is My Happy Place!”
The meadows, rivers, canyons & mountains of the National Park Service are an intricate network of trails and waterways waiting to be discovered or rediscovered.
It’s Time to Put your Travel Plans into Motion!
First, build an Itinerary with a National Park mini Guide then choose a recreation activity from the idea Boards. Find a corresponding checklist from Tested Gear to Gear Up for Preparedness and begin the adventure.
