Trip Reports

The GoPro Mountain Games in Vail, Colorado are a four‑day celebration of adventure sports, art, and music. From climbing walls and whitewater kayaking to trail runs, DockDogs, and live concerts, the Games bring athletes, families, and fans together in the heart of the Rockies.

Standing atop Elephant Butte, the highest point in Arches National Park, is a reward earned through route finding, scrambling, and thrilling rappels. With free permits, timed entry requirements, and careful beta research, this adventure blends technical canyoneering with breathtaking views. Pack water, snacks, and patience—the summit is the perfect place to linger, relax, and soak in the vast desert panorama stretching from Moab to the La Sal Mountains.

Descending from the rim into Bryce Canyon feels like stepping into another world—towering hoodoos, winding switchbacks, and trails that reveal new perspectives with every turn. From the Queen’s Garden to the Navajo Loop, the hike blends surreal geology with the quiet rhythm of exploration, reminding you that adventure is as much about presence as it is about progress.

Herman Gulch Trail is one of Colorado’s most accessible alpine adventures—just off I‑70 yet leading into a world of wildflower meadows, high‑altitude lakes, and sweeping Continental Divide views. The steep opening climb quickly gives way to expansive valleys, vibrant wildlife, and the shimmering waters of Herman Lake. Whether you’re chasing summer blooms, crisp fall air, or a winter snowshoe challenge, this trail delivers a true Rocky Mountain experience in under an hour from

Tucked into Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, Ouray Canyon Fest is more than a gathering—it’s a masterclass in vertical adventure. From anchor workshops and amazing descents, the event blends community with canyoncraft. But what stuck with me most wasn’t just the beta—it was the reminder that cold water and loose rock demand respect. This trip wasn’t just about sending—it was about learning, connecting, and staying sharp in terrain that doesn’t forgive guesswork.

Delicate Arch isn’t just a landmark—it’s a light show. As a photographer, I knew the shot I wanted: golden hour fire on sandstone, framed just right. But getting it meant more than showing up. I studied the beta—trail details, timing, tripod spots—and it paid off. The hike was intense, the crowd competitive, but the moment the sun hit the arch, everything aligned. That glow? It’s earned. And without the beta, I would’ve missed it.