Hello, world! It's been a whirlwind of a week since we left the comforting familiarity of Minneapolis, MN, embarking on a journey that will change our lives forever. From our small, quaint beginnings of our home in Minneapolis to finally getting a taste of living on the road, we have already learned a lot!
Lauren overlooking a beautiful lake in Custer State Park with a hazy sky from the Canadian Wildfires.
We set off from home on the 20th of May, our hearts filled with both excitement and nervousness. As we packed the last of our belongings, hugged our friends and family goodbye, there was an undeniable sense of embarking on something extraordinary. Our first stop was the Sandy Point County Park in Lakefield, MN, a peaceful little sanctuary nestled by South Heron Lake. The quiet and serene atmosphere was a perfect start for our journey.
A seemingly endless gravel road through nomads land in Nebraska by the Oglala National Grassland.
After a restful first night, we made the ambitious trek to South Dakota's iconic Custer State Park. Driving our trusty 4runner SR5, lovingly named "Babe," with the Aliner Travel Trailer in tow was a challenge. However, a quick pit stop in Chamberlain, SD, allowed us to stretch our legs at Roam Free Park and fuel ourselves with a delicious lunch.
Arriving at Custer State Park felt surreal. A slight haze hung in the air from distant wildfires, yet it didn't deter the charm of our temporary home. We camped at the Stockade South campground, a stone's throw away from the mesmerizing lake. One of our standout moments from Custer was undoubtedly the Lover's Leap hike. The wildfire haze was starting to lift, revealing breathtaking views that made for fantastic photography. As an adventure lifestyle photographer, I relished the opportunity to capture such landscapes. Another highlight? My day spent fly fishing on French Creek, followed by a delectable dinner of fire-roasted salmon and vegetables.
The View from the top of Lover's Leap trail in Custer State Park. Tall pines off in the distance during golden hour with the slight haze of the Canadian Wildfire smoke.
The road beckoned again, and we found ourselves heading towards Cheyenne, WY. A scenic work stopover at J.H. Keith Cascade Falls Picnic Area in Hot Springs, SD, provided Lauren the peace to finish her workday amidst curious onlookers amused by our off-the-grid setup. Following a longer than anticipated drive through the unknown, we arrived at the Last Chance Camp in Cheyenne. Our stay was punctuated by an exhilarating hike at Curt Gowdy State Park, chased by storm clouds and hail. And of course, we couldn’t forget those mouthwatering tacos from Best Tacos y Burritos la Paz - easily some of the best I've ever had!
Our last leg for the week brought us to the stunning Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forest in Colorado. Perched atop a ridgeline, our campsite offered awe-inspiring views of the valley and distant mountain ranges. Despite sporadic afternoon storms, our spirits remained undeterred. With Denver on the horizon, we’re excited to visit family, catch a Lord Huron concert, and keep embracing the unknown.
Lauren and Zooey standing on the overlook while admiring the view of our campsite in the Arapahoe & Roosevelt National Forest up in the Colorado Rockies.
Stay tuned to follow us as we continue our journey, living out of our Aliner Travel Trailer, capturing breathtaking landscapes, and creating unforgettable memories. If you're intrigued by a nomadic lifestyle, photography, or just love a good old adventure, this blog is for you! Join us on our journey, from Minnesota and beyond. Until next time!
Our A-liner Evolution and “Babe” 4Runner SR5 tucked away in the woods in the Arapahoe & Roosevelt National Forest up in the Colorado Rockies.