Although 2017 was a difficult year for many reasons, looking back, I still managed to go on some pretty spectacular adventures. I would encourage you to do the same — celebrate all the fun things you did instead of just ruminating on the more challenging times. So without further ado, here are 10 of my favorite outdoors adventures from the last year (in no particular order).
As part of the Adventure Travel Trade Association’s Adventure Week, I had the opportunity to explore both the Argentinian and Chilean side of Tierra del Fuego with a rad group of people. It was a trip I’ll never forget.
Earlier in the fall, I joined a group of 10 people riding from the tip of South America to the bottom on TDA Global Cycling’s South American Epic. I rode only a single section that started in La Paz, Bolivia, headed across the salt flats, and then down into Argentina for the Adventure Travel World Summit. Another trip I will never forget and I can’t wait to join TDA on a couple of the Silk Route sections next summer.
Together with Columbia Sportswear, I spent a week exploring the Mexican state of Quintana Roo — swimming in cenotes, climbing on Mayan ruins, snorkeling with whale sharks, and chasing elusive fish.
It’s not often you get the chance to ride and hang out with some of the best cyclists in the world. I’m not sure if I will ever get the opportunity again, but I was thankful for being included on this training camp for the Fundación Contador teams.
There is so much ice to climb in Italy and I loved having the opportunity to spend a few days with one of my favorite climbers and guide, Caroline George.
Backpacking Indian Peaks Wilderness
Together with Sierra Designs, ultra athlete Andrew Skurka took us on one of his favorite off-trail backpacking routes through the Indian Peaks Wilderness in Colorado.
Finally made it up camping along the Lost Coast of California with the super fun gang from Tepui tents. I need to plan a bikepacking trip up there soon.
To showcase the relaunch of their own bike line, REI invited us on a bikepacking trip to Texas. The hill country outside of Austin is beautiful and at that time of year, the bluebonnets were in full bloom.
Only an hour north of where I live, you can paddle in to a remote beach and set up camp for the night. And the best part? Dogs are allowed, too.
Visiting Channel Islands National Park
This was my first visit to the Channel Islands off the coast of Los Angeles and it won’t be my last. I would encourage everyone to add this national park to your list.
There were many more fun outdoor adventures to count but I had to stop somewhere. Anyway, Happy New Year everyone! Here’s to a great 2018.
Wow, all so amazingly! Cheers to even more in 2018!!