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Last week, I experienced my first-ever Fjallraven Annual Classic! Let’s just say it was nothing short of incredible! Over three days and 30 miles, I got to trek amidst the majestic Colorado Rockies, learn more about why Fjallraven puts on their Annual Classics (globally), and meet some rad individuals. For someone who just moved to Denver and was looking to build a new community and see nature out here, it was the perfect opportunity for me! If you’re interested in backpacking but haven’t done much of it or would like to be a part of a huge event, I think the Fjallraven Annual Classic USA is perfect. But I’ll leave that up to you as you read through the trip’s breakdown, what I learned, and the photos along the way. Newsletter Sponsor: Overlook Maps If you want a map that isn't tracking or selling your data, AND one that overlays the most recommended food and drink spots from experts like Eater, Thrillist, NYTimes, or Michelin Star Restaurants? 5 Takeaways from North America’s 2025 Fjallraven Annual ClassicAfter completing my first Fjallraven Annual Classic USA, I want to share some of the biggest takeaways from the trek. Hopefully, this will inspire you to join the US Classic next year! Read my full article with plenty of photos and trek details here. Gear CornerAs a media member, Fjallraven gave me some gear to test out. I had never tried any of their clothes before, and I enjoyed the opportunity to use the gear and put it to the test! Everything worked perfectly, and I even needed the rain jacket for some afternoon rain and hail. Yes, their gear is a bit pricey, but they have a decent Limited Lifetime Warranty, and it truly is built to last decades.
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Alec is a landscape photographer and outdoors storyteller with a zeal for pushing boundaries in the wild. He enjoys hiking, backpacking, and visiting remote places, allowing him to photograph locations the rest of the world shies away from. In addition, Alec loves to write about his travels and craft articles that help educate and inspire others to find their joy in nature.
Happy feast week, everyone! Jaimie and I are traveling to the Bay Area to see her family, and it'll be nice to warm up some as Denver's temps are DROPPING! I'm not sure how November flew by so fast, but here we are. I hope you and your families have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday. Thank you for being here and supporting this newsletter. I truly appreciate it. And if there is anything you want me to cover, just ask! First things first. I think you all enjoy traveling and probably saving...
Hi ya'll! Happy Monday! Jaimie and I went to Chicago this past weekend for her bridal shower with my side of the family. And then we had a big ol' party to celebrate and catch up. I haven't been back to Chicago in 16 months, and it was nice to see family. I also just found out on Thursday that I'll be heading to Canada next weekend for a whirlwind trip to Churchill. I'm still processing it all. When I say I'm shocked. I'm shocked. This was not on my 2025 bingo card. Can't wait to catch you...
Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda In the early 1900s, mountain gorillas were not known to Europeans. By the 1980s, scientists feared that they would become extinct by the end of the 20th century due to poaching and the capture of baby gorillas for zoos. With that fear, conservation efforts ramped up, and Rwanda's government, along with NGOs, made a concerted effort to protect mountain gorillas from extinction. With numbers as low as 240 in the 1980s, they are now over 1,000. A new census is being...