A little way of the beaten path--down quite a few miles of dirt roads--this national grassland the perfect place for a pit stop and a hike. Here's what you need to know about visiting Pawnee Buttes.

We’ve all seen a rad photo on Instagram and immediately thought: Where is this? I want to go there! Or you’re trying to plan a trip and want to hit the best places to visit in the area.

​Want to know how to find the best hiking trails, boondocking campsites, and more? ​Here are the best apps to help you plan your perfect adventure.

Who pooped in the van? ​

Never ever is that a question you want to have to ask.

I parked at the last picnic spot above the lake, layered up, and hopped out. And then immediately jumped back in. Definitely gonna need my vest out there!

I made plans. Rearranged them. Then altered them once more. There is always a detour somewhere, so I knew these plans were in no way solidified.

​Thus I found myself on the road a day ahead of schedule.

​3.5 hours northeast of Phoenix is a section of land you could easily drive right through without a thought of stopping to look around – from the car it looks fairly flat and somewhat monochromatic. 

You would, however, be missing out.
​In a big way. 

30 minutes in, I lost the trail. I didn’t know I was lost until I saw the actual trail again.

​8:22 am. The valley sprawled out ahead of us, empty of visitors but full of adventures. 

​Things I’ve decided to do: 

1. Visit a place new each month, even if it is just a new hiking trail on a mountain I’ve hiked before (stepping out of my comfort zone, exploring is fun)
2. Explore more of my home state/region (this is my home; shouldn’t I know this area best?!)
3. Continue adventuring solo (plus the two beasts, obviously) (I love doing literally whatever I want whenever I want!)
4. Go on an adventure with friends (without the two beasts – gasp!!) (major leap outside the comfort zone – I have to consider other people and their opinions! Yikes!)
5. Visit Jasper/Banff (again), because why not?! 

Technically I started out strong checking off 1-3 with a hike on Ridgeline Trail at South Mountain on New Year’s Day, just me and the pups. And then another hike via Javelina Trail with the same crew the following weekend. 
​
So I guess this weekend was a super bonus excursion for items 1-3.