Thrive Outside

I get asked many questions about trail conditions.  I have explored many apps to help make the trail conditions more easily available.  However, the #1 place that I would recommend you exploring if you want to know is the Alaska Outdoor Reports.   It is super easy to put in your own report of the trail conditions.  The groomers for skiing use it exclusively.  It has little icons for skiing, hiking, kayaking, skating, and biking. Since I live in Palmer, I have bookmarked and make the Mat-Su ski club a simple app on my phone by following these simple instructions .  That makes it super easy to see the weather and the trail conditions in one click on an icon on my iphone. Happy winter exploring everyone!

Don't own a cabin in the Woods?  You don't have to.  Why not share one by renting one of these amazing facilities!  I heard about the Manitoba huts on a podcast this summer and thinking this would be a fun way to get outside a different way this winter.   https://www.alaskahuts.org/manitoba-photos/  You could even stay in a YURT! James and I throughly enjoyed our anniversary get-away last December 2015 in a sweet cabin called Dale Clemens  near Seward, AK. The hike in was the bonus for us.  We didn't need to haul any wood because it come completely stocked with propane for the heater!  The silence was special and the heavy snow delightful. Note they Recreation.gov reserves cabins 180 days in advance.  The best time to book for Summer outings is in the winter. The State of Alaska has a variety of cabins for rent. We have enjoyed the Nancy Lake cabins.    http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/cabins/anch#&panel1-1

Often our lives are full.  Full of trials, pain, and just business. This was also the surroundings in Jesus life 2000+ years ago.  We hear of his days full of just that.  However, I find it inspiring how he spent time away from the crowds and went to the MOUNTAINS to connect to God. 1) Retreat:  Being a wife/mother/pastor's wife, my home is often the source of wonderful joys and sorrows.  I am available to everyone at all times.  I also see all the "necessary" projects that loom over my head like Eyores' black cloud.  It is there.  However, when I go to the hills or anywhere in nature, my distractions are lessoned DRASTICILY.  I can be in the world God created for me to enjoy.  It gives me time to listen. 2) Connect:  Prayer is often the pouring out to God. But, just like a marriage relationship, if only one person is talking it would be an unhealthy relationship.  When I take the time to reflect and listen to God, I g...

MUST HAVE and Secret Advantages It was a strange day at my son's new friend birthday party that I talked with Natalie.  Being "new" to Alaska after 10 years in Africa, this pivotal conversation changed my hiking world forever. Kahtoolas (red) I can't remember how we got to the topic of hiking & trail running, but we did. I think I was complaining about the slippery trails.  She introduced me to my best friend, the MICROSPIKES.   Hillsound trail crampon Microspikes allow you to extending hiking all year round.  They are essential if you love to get outside with terrible trail conditions.  They provide the traction for icy trails to slick muddy trails. They allow me to even RUN down the mountains with less fear of falling.  I am more confident with them on in the winter than my rugged trail shoes in the summer when the trails are dry.  The two that I have experience with is Kahtoola microspikes and Hillsound trail crampon....

After viewing some stunning photos on Facebook, I was eager to get to this newly opened trail. This is a short kid friendly trail that can handle a small stroller. However, after coming home and looking again at the map, we only captured the one part of the trail.  It has not been connected to the other phase that is nearer the school.  (it still is not connected)  small parking lot (no facilities) There is no signs but, if you go to the  4800 E Nelson Rd, Wasilla, AK 99654 or click on the  google map it will give you directions (thanks Google).  However, it is right past the Wasilla Creek and take an immediate left to a small parking lot. this is us finding a marsh that is not walkable even with a little bridge :) Once you find that place (hardest part), you walk towards the woods at about 1:00 is the trail head.  I was on it and it was perfect but short.  At the end of the wooden boardwalk, I ventured with my friends a lit...

Matanuska Peak aka Byers Peak The fair brings hordes of people to Palmer, but it also brings a temporary job with the amazing Alaska Chicks .  Seeing the beautiful weather (best in years), made my hiking feet cry for the mountains that call for me.  However, we had set September 10th for the ascent. Like other large mountains, this one has rewards all the way you climb it.  On the day we hiked, we saw people with toddlers who didn't summit, but enjoyed the tundra meadow! My husband is a fair weather hiker, and thankfully it was a STUNNING day.  We got a later start instead of 7am, we launched at 9 am. Many Routes to the same Peak. 1)   McRoberts Creeks approach Trailhead:  Smith Road 2) Matanuska Peak Trail Trailhead: Smith Road but after 3) Summit Lazy then go down the backside of Lazy toward the valley and connect with the Mat Peak trail. (Matanuska Peak Race) Trailhead:  Huntley Road Lazy Mountain Trailhead 4) Lazy-Matanuska ...

A few tips for keep your Fall hiking at it's maximum enjoyment! BY JULIE MILLER 1. LAYERS! - It is that time of year where I want the heat on in the house in the morning and the windows open in the afternoon. That same idea applies to your hiking clothing. Our temps this time of year can swing a good 20-30 degrees. Keep in mind that elevation also effects temperatures, higher means colder. Rain gear is a must. 2. Be mindful of hunters - For sportsmen Fall is the most anticipated time of the year. Moose season is in full swing and hikers should take precautions. Wear bright colored clothing so that you are visible. If you happen upon hunters be sure  they are aware of your presence. If you hear gunshots, judge the distance, keep your eyes open, and remain visible.   3. Shorter daylight - Toss a headlamp into your pack just incase you're out a wee bit later than you planned.  4. Trust your gut - If the weather turns on you 1/2 way through a hike there is NO shame in turni...