Trails That Changed Me: Why I Keep Coming Back to the Backcountry

Where Backpacking Can Take You

Backpacking can take you so many places! It literally can, as in your physical location, but also emotionally it can change things. At least that’s what happened for me. I’m Jubilee and I work at Alpenglow Expeditions helping run local operations here in the Tahoe area.

Borrowed Packs and Big Lessons

I can’t remember exactly which backpacking trip was my very first, but they all started when I was 13-ish. Twice, I went into the Oregon wilderness with some classmates, led by a wonderful teacher and his pack horse, Poncho. My mom joined us as a chaperone, and I will never forget those first lessons on how to pack the huge borrowed military ruck sack, or how easy it is to take the wrong trail and necessitate a long backtrack. Also, how far a horse with hobbles can, well, hobble away in search of grass. Around that same era I ventured into the Enchantments Wilderness in Washington State accompanied by a few siblings and friends, our dads, and my uncle Tim. All these trips were the start of my love for walking trails and sleeping under the stars.

Backpacking Through Life’s Transitions

Gradually backpacking became a marker of important transitions in my life. When I was about to leave for college my mum and I backpacked in the Colombia River Gorge to say goodbye. And later, when I was moving to Namibia to join the Peace Corps, we did our biggest trip yet! Eight days on the PCT in Washington. There is nothing like bonding over cold streams, hot dinners, steep trails and insane views. Sadly, my time in the Peace Corps came to an abrupt end during Covid, buuut it led me to my first backpack guiding job in Southern Utah. That job then transitioned into the wonderful world of Grand Canyon guiding!

From Hiker to Guide

Since 2023, I’ve had the privilege to spend time each spring and fall exploring the incredible terrain of Grand Canyon, and introducing it to other folks passionate about nature and doing hard things. One of my favorite parts of each trip is watching people challenge themselves and seeing the pride they have after completing such an epic journey! And yes, sometimes my eyes get watery as we take the last few steps up and out of that big ditch.

Finding Joy on the Trail with Friends

Living here in Truckee, I’ve been able to explore the area with a dear friend who shares the joy of coming around a corner to gasp at wildflowers or pauses midstep to watch a tiny bird hanging upside down in a tree. We laugh and cry on the trail, letting our feet find a peaceful, and often sweaty, rhythm. The uphill grinds challenge us, and the sweeping views at sunset stun us. These moments are irreplaceable and I want to share many more of them with people who are seeking similar beauty and exploration.

Step Into Yosemite’s Quiet Corners

If you feel the pull towards a stunning backcountry journey, where you get to soak in every moment – landscape, creatures, plants, sunsets – then come join us on our newest adventure! The incredible Yosemite Valley offers scenic and remote terrain that gets you away from the crowds and into the stillness. It’s a great chance to be physically challenged, learn some backcountry skills from experienced guides, and above all enjoy the special feeling of being in the bigness of Yosemite.