As an outdoor enthusiast, I know the thrill of lacing up your hiking boots and embarking on adventures in Colorado's breathtaking landscapes.
But when you're not on the trail, books become a gateway to immerse yourself in epic quests and find inspiration. In this section, I'll share honest book reviews, insider hiking tips and tricks, and my thoughts on the trail.
May your footsteps lead you to new trails and your books transport you to incredible journeys.
-Melody
PSSST... Dive into our GoodReads page, where I spill the tea on all the books I'm reading, loving, and reviewing – because good books are like secrets worth sharing!
After decades of Colorado living, I’ve cultivated 7 easy and fun ways to bring it inside and keep the trail magic alive all year long. From nature-inspired home decor to using the senses of sound and smell, these ideas blend indoors outdoors to create a space that celebrates the beauty and feel of the wild. These tips will fill your home with the essence of nature, making every season a reminder of outdoor adventures.
Read MoreWhat is hiking? It's more than a walk; it's a journey of discovery and well-being. From the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoko, forest bathing, to the immune-boosting magic of phytoncides, hiking unveils a world of natural wonders. Leet each step be an adventure for your mind and body. So, why hike? Because in the great outdoors, you'll find not just trails, but tales waiting to be uncovered
Read MoreStep into the vibrant setting of Sedona with Kathleen Bryant's "Over the Edge," a gripping murder mystery that highlights Arizona's splendor. Follow a has-been journalist as she navigates family drama, unsolved murders, and the spiritual intrigue of this bustling tourist hotspot. Bryant's storytelling may earn a B for mystery, but her portrayal of Sedona is an A+.
Read MoreOn a recent trail hike in Colorado, I had an unforgettable encounter with two 81-year-old twin hikers and their St. Bernard. What started as a simple hello turned into a captivating conversation that left me with three invaluable lessons. These seasoned adventurers shared their wisdom and inspired me to embrace the trail with renewed vigor and perspective. Discover the surprising insights I gained from this unexpected meeting on the Colorado Trail.
Read MoreDiscovering peace amidst life's chaos can be a challenge. Those two yellow flowers on a Colorado trail showed me the way to hit "Pause." Learn how to calm the frenzy with these 16 simple practices. Nature holds the secret to finding tranquility amid stress and chaos, allowing you to reclaim a sense of peace even when life seems overwhelming.
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Mount Kilimanjaro isn't just a bucket list hike; it's a journey full of lessons. During my climb, I learned six key things that help me live more fully in the present. From teamwork to the power of preparation, these insights are valuable for everyday life. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or new to the game, these Kilimanjaro lessons will keep you grounded and remind you to enjoy the journey.
If you ask Melody what she is, she'll proudly declare "I'm a runner" - but that hard-earned moniker represents a winding journey of self-discovery. From her first painful 400-meter race as a third grader in Liberia to the ultra-competitive high school years, running was both an outlet and a harsh mirror. It took postpartum depression and the guidance of a legendary marathoner to reignite Melody's passion on the trails. As she recounts the treasured running partners, gutsy race adventures, and ultimate transition to hiking, it becomes clear these miles were paving a path to something greater - finding her true self in the outdoors. Melody's story shows how lifting our feet in nature's sacred spaces can indeed heal our deepest wounds and reunite us with our most authentic selves.
Read MoreWomen Who Hike is a breath of fresh air, celebrating remarkable outdoorswomen and their favorite trails. From Ambreen Tariq's empowering journeys to Kalen Thorien's adventurous tales, each chapter intertwines personal stories with vivid hiking descriptions. With insider tips and stunning photos, this book is an inspiring ode to the healing power of nature. Discover the stories of dreamers and doers who redefine the art of hiking. Dive into Women Who Hike for an immersive adventure.
Read MoreEmbark on the pages and unveil the enchantment of unique journeys, where not only does this road trip retrace the steps of Jedidiah's parents' iconic walk across America in the '70s, but it becomes the backdrop for one of the hardest conversations of his life. In Mother, Nature, witness acceptance blossoming in the most unexpected places, weaving a narrative that goes beyond exploration—it's an intimate journey of rediscovery and connection.
Read MoreEmbark on a soul-stirring adventure in "The Net Beneath Us." Follow Elsa's extraordinary journey through the untamed wilderness as she confronts challenges, grief, and the power of nature. Will she find the resilience to overcome adversity and discover hope in the face of loss? Experience the emotional depth of the characters and immerse yourself in beautifully depicted natural settings. Prepare to be captivated by a tale that will leave you pondering the profound connection between humanity and the natural world. Can Elsa's story unlock the secrets of resilience and transformation? Dive into the pages and find out for yourself.
Read MoreEver wondered what nature can teach you while hiking Colorado trails? It's a captivating classroom of its own! Explore breathtaking landscapes, conquer challenges, and soak in the beauty. Pause and listen to the mountains' resilience, the tranquility of a babbling creek. Feel the harmony of birdsong and the gentle breeze. What secrets of balance and peace do they hold?
Read MoreHiking and yoga are the perfect pair - combating injury while providing a multi sensory adventure on Colorado trails. Learn practical tips for practicing outdoor yoga. Prepare to be amazed at how well you feel when practicing yoga outside becomes a integral part of your hiking experience.
Read MoreGail Straub fantastically weaves short narratives of adventurous women into a powerful book of positive motivation. For any outdoor enthusiasts, this should be a must read! You’ll be drawn into a rich community of ordinary women doing extraordinary things simply by starting. A great gift, this book should be on every hiker’s bookshelf!
Read MoreFor some, hiking the Appalachian Trail is a young person’s quest. Grandma Gatewood’s first trek on the AT began at 67 years old. She’d go on to complete this magnificent 2,000+ mile trail two more times proving age has nothing to do with fulfilling dreams. Read this book and quickly find yourself ready to lace up your boots for an AT thru-hike.
Read MoreLongtime through hiker, Foskett, journeys to nearby Scotland to hike the Cape Wrath trail. Miles into his hike, he comes face to face with his addictions that mask his true illness - depression. Hike out of this dark space with Foskett while experiencing the beautiful history of a beloved country.
Read MoreAndrea Lankford weaves powerful stories of National Park Rangers in this eloquent memoir. WIth 12 years of service under her belt, this tell all adventure book doesn’t mince words for obnoxious tourists, challenging rescues and mental. health issues of the USA National Park rangers. Be ready for an outdoor adventure and a good cry at the end.
Read MoreA beloved outdoor adventure book turned outdoor comedy film, Bryson’s tales about hiking the Appalachian Trail will have you loading up a backpack for an outdoor adventure of your own. History and geography facts are woven around hilarious thru hiker backpacker run ins and pivotal personal moments of pain in this travel book.
Read MoreHeather “Anish” Anderson is on a quest to break the 2011 PCT unsupported thru-hike record set by Scott Williamson. You’ll quickly find this outdoor adventure book is less about the record and more about the trail’s lessons. Thru-hiking over 40 miles/day for weeks on end brings Anderson to the end of her physical energy. However, on her PCT journey, the thirst and hardships endured give beautiful insights into the beauty of nature, the triumph of trail hiking and the joy of finding inner contentment.
Read MoreGary Paulsen didn’t set out to race dogs. A few fascinating experiences with his dog team, some having you grinning and laughing create the perfect storm for Paulsen to dream big. He is going to race Alaska’s 1000 mile Iditarod race. Before that trip however, Paulsen recounts sordid tales of training that will have you howling in laughter. By the story’s end, you can tangibly feel his deep love for nature and even more, for his dogs.
Read MoreTo really find what you’re made of, you need to spend time in the mud and mire of the hiking trail. At least that’s what Suzanne Roberts needed on the cusp of adulthood. Armed with limited through hiking knowledge, along with a trail “know it all friend” (you know the type I’m talking about) and a newbie hiking peer fighting an eating disorder, the three girls took on California’s John Muir Trail. Roberts brilliantly weavesi in life lessons on their 28 day through hike.
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