This Big Wild World

10/12/2024

FYI If you’re headed to the state parks on Minnesota’s north shore soon!

Update: We are back up and running! See you on the trails and give park staff a friendly wave if you see them out there 👋

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⚠ Heads up, North Shore! ⚠

Many North Shore state parks are without internet and phone, and some even without power after recent heavy snowfall. Park staff are working hard to plow the heavy snow, and may not clear everything today. We will provide updates here as they become available. Thank you for your patience!

(Thank you to Minnesota Department of Transportation for the traffic cam view!)

28/11/2024

🍃 OUTDOOR LOVER'S & ADVENTURE TRAVELER HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE ✈

I'll be the first to admit that outdoor lovers and adventure travelers can be a bit, um, particular about their gear. That makes them a tough bunch to buy gifts for! Plus, who has time to try and figure out sizing for gifts? Not me.

That's why I put together a list of gifts and gear for any adventurer that is foolproof - and, even better, no sizes are required!

Find the full list using the 🔗 in my bio, but here are some highlights with great deals this holiday weekend:

Brevitē Jumper Camera Backpack - you won't believe how much fits inside and it kept my camera gear safe when I was hit by a car, so it's pretty amazing. (50% Black Friday sale, they often sell out)

Rumpl Nanoloft Blanket - it's ultralight as a sleeping bag alternative for camping and comes in a travel size to take on planes or road trips (25% off everything thru 12/3)

What's on your outdoor and travel gear wishlist this year?

https://www.thisbigwildworld.com/best-gifts-for-outdoor-lovers-travelers/

21/11/2024

Takes a lickin’ and keeps on tickin’!

I’m referring to me, and my backpack. I’m still processing the accident I was in 4 months ago, where I was hit by a car while walking across the street on one of my adventures.

Without going into details, I’ll just share that there was a Susan-shaped dent in the vehicle, they were going 30-40mph when they hit me.

One of the most incredible parts of this experience is that I was wearing my camera backpack with about $5000 worth of gear in it at the time -AND the only thing damaged was a $100 filter that was in the outermost pocket. 🤯

Of course my personal safety is the priority but knowing that I didn’t need to also deal with replacing my camera gear was a gift.

This backpack has gone with me to the literal ends of the earth - including Antarctica and Buenos Aires!

If you (or someone you know) is looking for a camera backpack this holiday season, Brevite is my hands down recommendation. Watch my stories for links and additional details!

19/11/2024

Amazing job opportunities with the MN state parks!

Attention job seekers: This could be your commute next year 🚗🍂 Turn your passion for Minnesota's state parks into a fulfilling career as a park supervisor at several openings across the state!

We are looking to fill 8 park supervisor positions that will oversee park operations, direct visitor services and public relations, and collaborate with others to enhance, protect and/or restore these precious places for future generations. Join a dynamic team of dedicated colleagues at state parks such as Itasca, Fort Snelling, Maplewood or Gooseberry Falls!

Park Supervisor positions are open at:
🗺 Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park (job ID 81518)
🗺 Fort Snelling State Park (job ID 81428)
🗺 Gooseberry Falls State Park (job ID 81427)
🗺 Interstate State Park (job ID 79841)
🗺 Itasca State Park (job ID 81459)
🗺 Maplewood State Park (job ID 81420)
🗺 McCarthy Beach State Park (job ID 81447)
🗺 Whitewater State Park (job ID 81431)

Additionally, we are also looking for an area supervisor near Owatonna, MN! This position would manage and direct parks and trails programs located in Rice, Steel, Dodge, Freeborn and Mower counties, in addition to supervising operations at Rice Lake State Park. If you are interested in this opportunity, go to mn.gov/mmb/careers/ and search job ID 79569.

The application deadline for all positions listed above is Wednesday, December 4, so apply soon! Go to mn.gov/mmb/careers and search "park supervisor" or search each position's job ID to see specific qualifications and more details about the duties and responsibilities.

📷: Sheila Hanson, Maplewood State Park (taken October 2024)

19/11/2024

I don’t want to be writing this post, but here we are.

Women deserve to take up space in the outdoors. We NEED nature, arguably now more than ever.

And, we all need to feel safe when we’re outdoors.

This has always been a factor for women to consider. In the last 2 weeks, though, I’ve seen a dramatic uptick in the posts, messages and conversations from/ with women expressing fear and hesitation about being alone in the outdoors. So much that many are opting NOT to spend time in nature right now.

These fears are not unfounded. Two women were SA’d in a popular park during broad daylight in the Twin Cities in the last month. It’s natural to have your guard up.

So, I put together a list of safety tips and devices you can carry to feel more safe and confident on the trail. I hope these help you spend the time you need (and deserve) outside.

Find the full list using the 🔗 below and watch for stories with details today.

https://www.thisbigwildworld.com/hiking-alone-as-a-woman/

What do you do to stay safe when hiking alone?

19/11/2024

One of the most common questions I get from women is "how are you not afraid to go hiking all by yourself?"

It's a fair question, and one that I've been getting even more often over the last month unfortunately. My answer is always about being alert and prepared - that is, after all, part of why I have an entire series of blog posts called "Prepared Girl's Guides" ;)

I believe that we all deserve to spend time in nature, to disconnect with the world and reconnect with ourselves. Now, more than ever, we need time outdoors. So, I put together a list of safety tips and specific safety devices/ tools women can carry to feel more confident and safe when hiking alone.

(Hint: If you have a female hiker in your life, these also make great gifts!)

Hiking alone can be an empowering experience for women, allowing them to connect with nature and find peace and confidence on the trails. Unfortunately, solo hiking for women also involves thoughtful consideration for your personal safety. This guide explores practical safety tips designed specifica...

09/11/2024

Ladies, be careful out there. I know this is a popular place for hiking in the Twin Cities area and one I have hiked solo several times.

Public Safety Notification!
The Eagan Police Department and the Dakota County Sheriff's Office are actively investigating two separate attacks at Lebanon Hills Regional Park and are increasing police presence in the area. We encourage everyone to stay vigilant and take these safety precautions:

✅ Walk in pairs or groups
✅ Stay aware of your surroundings
✅ Avoid poorly lit areas
✅ Stay in more populated areas
✅ Report any suspicious activity immediately to 911

Stay alert, stay safe, and look out for each other.
Please call 911 immediately for something actively going on. For tips on our tipline, you can contact us at the following:
651-675-5799 or
[email protected]

08/11/2024

Searching for answers, and coming up empty.

The world is too beautiful to be this ugly with each other.

SWIPE->
I took my dog on a walk today to a park where I often find myself when something is heavy on my heart and mind. It’s not remarkable just an important place to me.

Just steps from here is a beautiful memorial to survivors of sexual violence.

And today this is where I finally let myself cry.

I am determined to not let the hate in this world seep into my heart. So, I’m sending love from my little corner of this big wild world. Take care, friends 💚

03/11/2024

Which of the following do you think is false about Puerto Rico?

🍃 Home to the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest System
✨ Has the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world
⛱ Has what is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches int he world
🏝 Largest subtropical dry forest in the world
🐦 Habitats designated as critically important for migratory and resident birds
🌊 3rd largest underground river system in the world

It's a trick - all of them are true!

When visiting Puerto Rico, my advice is to get out and explore beyond San Juan to see all the unique and incredible ecosystems!

My latest blog post outlines how to experience ecotourism in Puerto Rico, with details on all of the places mentioned above - and more.

Want to minimize your environmental impact while visiting Puerto Rico? Ecotourism in Puerto Rico is booming, add these experiences to your itinerary!

31/10/2024

Love to see more accessible campsites at Voyageurs National Park!

24/10/2024

Have you been to Minnesota’s Black Beach? It’s a must stop on the north shore!

But, don’t be fooled! It’s not made of black sand at all. This manmade beach was created decades ago from the taconite tailings of a mining operation but the EPA ended that practice in 1972. Doing so, restored the trout population and left behind what is today known as Black Beach.

22/10/2024

Lake Superior is kinda cute when it’s angry. And, on a moody day like this one, the pink rocks on Iona’s Beach seem to pop even more.

Find this unique stop in Two Harbors on Minnesota’s north shore. Parking is free and a short walk on a paved trail to the beach.

15/10/2024

⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

“Wow!”

“Stunning!”

“Is this even real?!”

“These colors are unbelievable”

- Me while hiking Bean & Bear Overlook during peak fall colors

About the trail: ~7 mile lollipop style trail, rugged terrain (large tree roots, rocks, cliffs) with around 1000 feet of elevation gain. Located near Tettegouche State Park in Silver Bay.

I would describe the trail as moderate for avid hikers and challenging for casual hikers.

01/10/2024

When the fare sale has deals to the Upper Peninsula in fall, you don’t ask questions.

Spent the weekend chasing waterfalls, climbing lighthouses, and paddling lakes in the UP. Of course, I had to stop Tahquamenon Falls while I was there. This state park is open year-round, has several waterfalls, miles of trails, and a brewery! 🍻

During the summer months I am sure this park is packed but in fall there were plenty of parking spots and was busy but not crowded.

SAVE this for your trip to the UP!