how i plan adventuring
Are you of the plan-n-organize all my summer adventures out in detail by January variety or more of the last-minute off the cuff morning of adventurer type? Possibly a hybrid of the two styles? If you’re in the market for a Spring planning and prep guide, you are very welcome to use my framework.
Generally, I say yes to all adventures that are presented to me. Then, I show up when people tell me to. But you already knew that. And what you really want to know is how I determine what, where, and how I will adventure. I'm here to indulge you on my fancy flouncing abilities but don't expect too much, alright? When planning adventures I create lists (oh, how I love les listes!), do a wee bit o research, and leave some last minute wiggle room.
About this time of year when the weather is inspirational I begin to chat with friends about where I hope to explore and what I hope to conquer throughout the summer. Usually trails I didn’t quite get to from last years lists or spots I relished so much I want to enjoy them again. Paying attention to the trails and activities I list verbally the most, I put pencil to paper and outline the standouts. Obviously, or maybe shockingly?, the list always ends up longer than I am tall and the need to rearrange by strength of desire for completion or most fascinating adventure becomes the second round of the task. One piece of the puzzle I don't add to the list is specific dates or any type of timeline. I'll elaborate on why later but for now, know that this is merely the brainstorm phase.
What types of activities do you want to add to your list and what support will you need to make it happen? For example, if I'm hoping to break into Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) or other ways to float the Yellowstone this summer I would write my list line item like the following: SUP; buy/rent equipment & research/find friends to take me. Yes, I offer my future self hints about what I need to do to make it happen. Seems silly but I once read somewhere that if you write something down it's more likely to happen. Why not try to make it a smidge easier? Alright, how's that list of yours comin' along?
Research isn't just spreadsheets and fluff! Well alright then Sprite! What is it? I’m so glad you asked since I sure do loathe a bad spreadsheet. Gathering intel from friends happens to be my fave type of research. It’s also the most reliable. Of course, I also use the AllTrails App (least reliable) and the interwebs for broad sweeping overviews and ideas of where to explore. Truthfully, to study the map and discover the names of trails. The resources I prefer most are physical maps, books that offer detailed accounts of trails, and the local outdoor stores. If I can’t get the freshest update from someone I know or get them to go with me, I dig a little deep.
Once I have an idea of what I want to explore and when I want to experience that area, I spend a fair amount of time looking into the mileage and connecting trails so I can have a bailout option on game day. I consider what equipment/tools/layers I’ll need and how else I need to be prepared. I ask friends if they’re interested in joining or if they are planning interesting outings that I can jump in on. Then, I make some final decisions. Is this the right time for this adventure based on time of day/time of year/trail maintenance crews in the area/current weather or forecast/how my body feels/etc.? If I head out alone, I tend to wait until wildlife breakfast rush hour is complete and be off the trail before dinner rush hour commences. Then, I pack and fuel up.
Here we are! It’s the morning of and you’ve decided your plan, you’re overpacked and prepared, and huh. Your friend backs out and you’re not comfortable attempting that plan alone or don’t have the equipment but still want to do something. Or you get lost on the way to the trail so now you’re timing is off. Or you get cold feet. Or the weather is ridiculous in one area so you must pivot to another. Or or or. What to do where to look how to act?
You’re welcome for making you build a to-do list of adventures that have basics on what you need! Insert the easiest choice for this moment and your day of adventuring can continue if only slightly altered. Like what I did there? Keeping tabs of some easy go-to options, longer options that are still accessible on the fly, and some rainy day decision making intel is the most useful trick I keep in my hiking pants. I also keep in mind three go-to trails for friends that want to hike with me, one for each level of difficulty.
That’s all. Pretty simple and straight forward, right? Whether you value planning ahead or find spontaneity whimsical, mixing the two by carefully crafting an adventure wish list, performing a bit of advance research, and understanding that flexibility is crucial can be a useful strategy for upping your adventure game. Are you ready to implement this into your Spring fever routine? Or what advice do you have for me according to your best strategies for planning trips and trail exploration? Share what serves you best—I want all the intel! Please and thank you.
