Wandering Washingtons

Why did I decide to try backpacking for the first time on a group trip? Rob and I could have easily tried it together.

Because I wanted to go with someone who had gone before so I could ask questions, have gear provided because I had no idea what to get, and because I have been missing having a community out here since we moved across the country.

What did I learn?

I have found that every time I put myself in a situation with like-minded people, beautiful connections are formed.

Pushing your body to see what it can do is so rewarding. Being surrounded by beautiful sights is inspiring. Being among other adventure lovers is empowering. And spending a weekend in the quiet of nature and no phone service is healing.

It is never too late to try something new, make new friends, and learn from others.

You have only one life to live, might as well make it an adventure.

Is there something you’ve been wanting to try? Let me know in the comments!

📷: (thank you for making me feel beautiful in all these photos💕)
⛰️Trip guides: .bloomquist and

For every one picture in a batch that I love, there’s about 10 that look like this ➡️ (swipe past 2 to see said photos🙈😂)

Idaho quickly became one of our favorite states this winter from the hot springs, the jagged mountains, the quaint towns, kind people, and the scenic drives. We had no idea what to expect from Idaho but upon leaving I knew we had to add Idaho hiking to our bucket list for the summer months. While we got to fully experience the beauty and warmth of the hot springs in the freezing cold temperatures and snow, we didn’t get to explore the mountains. It’s a rarity for me to find somewhere that I enjoy fully in all seasons, and I’d definitely say Idaho is a rare, underrated gem.

Is Idaho on your bucket list?!
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On our travels through the states recently, we’ve had many people say to us that we’ve seen more of their state in the minimal amount of time we’ve been there than they have while living there. And that got me thinking. Why is it so easy for us to do new things in a new town but not to do new things in our home town?

I challenge you to see your city or state from a tourist’s eyes. What are the must sees? Is your hometown known for something? Take a guided history tour or ghost tour. Try a new activity like a rock climbing gym or glassblowing, go to a bookstore in another town, explore a part of your state you’ve never been to. Research your hometown and plan as if you were traveling there for the first time. What are some things you normally check out or like to do when going somewhere new? Use a travel search engine to search your own town or state and see what is recommended.

Sometimes you don’t have to travel far in order to experience something new. Sometimes you just need a fresh perspective.

What do you normally use to research your travels? Google and blogs are our best friends for travel research. Research your hometown and let us know some new fun things you discover! 👇🏼
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I had seen this spot a million times on the gram and dreamed of going. But after reading about how overly crowded it gets, I was afraid I’d get there only to discover people filling up every pool, with clothes and towels everywhere, and no chance of solitude. I wondered if the 7 miles round trip in the snow would be worth it.

But I am happy to share that not only was it worth it, this place was even more magical in person! The water is really that milky aqua blue with two translucently green pools. And to add to the magic, I had this place all to myself! It was like stepping into a fairy tale forest🧚🏼‍♀️

If you are like me and have dreamed of going here, save this for inspiration, add it to your list and make it happen!

I will be sharing more about this hot spring and advice for getting it all to yourself in the coming week!
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❗️Save this for future planning!

Tucked away in the southeastern corner of Oregon amid the hills of the high desert, you will find Crane Hot Springs.

With many overnight options to choose from, you can make this a stop over on a road trip or make a weekend out of it.

I booked one of their teepees (includes a heater for winter stays!) that includes a personal hot springs tub, clothing optional since my teepee and tub were fenced in 😌

Would you stay here?