So after parking the van for a couple weeks now, it’s funny how much I was itching to get her back out into the wild.
(Truthfully I was needing some wilderness and so was Ramsey but I didn’t know just how much until we got out here).
and— it is her (the van’s) one-month anniversary so I felt a celebration was in order! ;)
For this third outing I decided to try a campsite in a regional park - which boasts hundreds of miles of trails. Far enough away from city life and hustle bustle but contained enough for me to feel safe and not a super far drive to get here.

While I knew it would mean camping near other humans, I also continue to learn and refine my processes & I feel like these baby steps are best done when civilization is still fairly nearby.
Plus- restrooms. *And this one came with an unexpected bonus: a hot shower !

Ramsey and I loaded up and went to the park. When we arrived I learned all tent spots were full because- wait for it … there is a bike race here today !! Hahaha. Seriously that struck me as funny. I was attempting to get away & I got myself right into the middle of a mountain bike race. 😆
LESSON: always check your target park or campground website in advance for special events & to ensure there will be a tent spot /campsite. 🤦‍♀️

Well- luckily there were still spots in the overflow parking which TBH is the best area since it’s removed from the mayhem of the main camping areas where the racers are all staying AND it has the newer restrooms. I found myself parked near three other vehicles and their occupants proved to be super friendly neighbors. Each of them taught me something new tonight. So for that and the conversations I am super grateful. I do love talking to strangers.

Once we parked and settled in, we set out for a nice long midday run/hike. Ramsey was over the moon to be out here doing the work. This is where she truly thrives. She is the opposite of a couch potato !

Post run, I tried to chase rehydrating with a tall bottle of Skratch. I feel like hydration is a battle I am constantly losing out here in the desert 🐪 😓.

After that I came back, changed, and got on the Cannondale Fsi hard tail mountain bike for the dusk golden hour trail bliss. Hardly anyone was out there- I assume the racers were all resting up for tomorrow and the light and vibe out there was soooo good.
The paparazzi snagged a couple pics of me wearing my brand new Champion System 3/4 trail jersey with our latest custom design featuring my spirit animal, the hummingbird. We called it the BE FIERCE kit. It’s rad. (Artwork by my friend Luis Soto). Something about the desert 🏜 + the mindset I was in + the new kit gave me wings. 🐦 The simplicity of the singlespeed always brings me joy, too. No complications- no fuss.

Once back at the van, it was time to hang out my gear to air dry for a 2nd use tomorrow. I’m not gonna lie I had a lot of fun setting up these photos. (Side note: if van life has taught me nothing else so far it’s that the smallest littlest tasks are worthy of extra time and attention and reward me with the most joy).

Ramsey and I took in the incredible sunset tonight and went for a quick walk before dark. I tell you what- I am a mountains and colorado girl in my soul forever, AND the desert has also always had a piece of my heart ever since I was a little girl. 🏜 🌵

Grandma Jane wintered down here and after years of visiting her during the winters, I always wanted to spend my winters here too. Not when I eventually retired mind you- but as soon as it was possible.
For the first time ever, and it’s worth really noting this and me celebrating it, I am finally living that dream and it’s my current reality. Covid has made lawyering possible from anywhere with everyone on zoom and I am taking full advantage. 🙏🏼

Last, it was time for my most favorite part of vanlife: meal prep. Tonight’s random meal consisted of a noodle bowl, blueberries, salt&vinegar chips, hot chocolate and seltzer. Not the healthiest ever, but it really hit the spot and it was all doable with hot water heated on the van stove.

The night ends with me typing this blog while my legs are up recovering and getting ready for another active day tomorrow. 😊

In summary it was the perfect day- dog, van, sun, outdoor movement and exercise, dinner, rest, camera and photography practice, a little contemporaneous blogging and … I’m off to catch some 💤 😴 so I can do it all again tomorrow.

Stay hydrated and energized on YOUR adventures! I recommend Skratch Labs (made in Boulder, CO!) drink mixes for your bike rides and trail runs! Order some using the link below!

**As an Amazon Affiliate I may earn commissions from your purchases.