Hiking makes me happy.

Canoe Camping in the Sylvania Wilderness

July 30, 2026 by lovesmichiganoutdoors

You know a place must be gorgeous when a turn of the century lumber baron buys it, then decides it’s too beautiful to be logged! The Sylvania Wilderness is a gorgeous area to explore by canoe!
Trail Maintenance on the North Country Scenic Trail

July 21, 2026 by lovesmichiganoutdoors

A weekend of trail work with the Jordan Valley 45 NCT chapter
Niagara Escarpment Trip Report:

June 1, 2026 by lovesmichiganoutdoors

A weekend hiking trip in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, camping in the Hiawatha National Forest

My Work

I am a retired history and English teacher who spent 27 years in the classroom. I also have experience working as a freelance writer and photographer. I am an admin for the West Michigan Hiking & Backpacking page, leading group trips throughout Michigan, focusing on beginning backpacking skills. I am a volunteer trail maintainer for the North Country Trail and the Little Traverse Conservancy.

About Me

My parents encouraged a love of nature from the time I was a small child; pontoon rides on Houghton Lake, fishing from the dock, and collecting fossils along the shore. We cross-country skied and snowmobiled in the winter, and sailed Lake Michigan in the summer. My love of hiking and backpacking comes from my desire to explore all of Michigan’s beauty, and escape the humdrum of everyday life.