Lea Appleton

I've been planning to backpack the John Muir Trail, also known in Paiute as Nüümü Poyo or the "People's Trail," for three years now. But it's been elusive each time. And this year is no exception...I'm now planning for next summer! What's different this time is that it isn't my body that is not cooperating. Instead, it's my husband's. A really bad sprain and ligament tear is putting our plans on hold for this summer. Last year it was my stress fracture and the year before it was my hip...

Things to see and do in the desert. There's something about Death Valley that fascinates me. Maybe because it is both one of the lowest elevation locations and one of the hottest places I've ever visited. I think it's mostly because there is just so much open space. And the combination of mountains, and flatlands, and dunes makes for a unique dessert landscape. It can be a little daunting to think about a visit for those who haven't been because it can seem so austere. But there is so much to...

I've just received my instructor certification from Leave No Trace! And I'm excited to share the 7 Principles and why they matter to me. As I learned about these during the training and as I consider how I try to live them in my wilderness (and not so wilderness) experiences, I find that they are far less about following a rule and much more about being respectful and participating in outdoor activities with an ethic of care. I also find that they often translate nicely as metaphors for the...