Whether I’m exploring the peaks of New Mexico or climbing in the Austrian Alps, it’s where I feel the most connected to nature and myself.

There’s something special about the process of hiking – starting at the trailhead with no idea what the path will fully bring, working through the steady climb, and then reaching the summit.

Along the way, there are challenges: the steep parts, unexpected weather, or just the mental push to keep going. But those moments are what make standing at the top so rewarding.

Travel and hiking go hand in hand for me. Both give me a chance to slow down, appreciate my surroundings, and remind myself that the journey matters just as much as the destination. Whether it’s a desert view in New Mexico or a snowy peak in the Alps, the experiences stay with me long after I’ve come back down.

What’s a place or hike that’s left a lasting impression on you?