

Meet Your Guide
Outdoor adventures and off-the-beaten-track travel have been my paths to confidence, contentment, and a deeper understanding of the world and myself. I created Exploring Wild to help others discover the power of these experiences.
Everything on this website is based on extensive personal experience and careful research. You can trust that I’ve been there, done that, and learned from some mistakes.
I’m introverted, nerdy, and more risk-averse than you might think. I have cranky knees and hate being cold. I used to think all this stuff was only for people braver and tougher than me. If I can do it, so can you! Read more here.
~ Alissa, creator of Exploring Wild
Latest Posts
My Experience With Bad Bearings in a SON Dynamo Hub (Successfully Replaced, So Far So Good)
Are Dynamo Hubs Worth It? My Take After 5000 Miles
8 Stunningly Scenic Backpacking Destinations in California
Review: One Bottle Hydration System (Smartwater Adapter)
6 Beautiful Backpacking Loop Trails in the Pacific Northwest
From Desert to Alpine, 5 Really Hard Day Hikes in California
Beginner’s Guide to Bikepacking Bags
NeoAir UberLite vs. XLite vs. XTherm: Which Therm-a-Rest Pad Should You Choose?
Osprey Salida 12 Hydration Pack Long-Term Review
Smartwool Active Fleece Wind Tights Long-Term Review
See All Posts
Explore by Bike
Bikepacking Gear Guides
Explore on Foot
Quiet trails, gorgeous views, dusty footsteps.
Explore the Trails
Backpacking Gear Guides
More Hiking Posts


Explore the World
More Adventure


Welcome, explorer!
If you pore over maps for fun, sleep better outside, and need to know what’s around the next bend,
if your mind grows calmer when your body is in motion,
if the world is vast and life is too short…
This is for you.
Resources and inspiration to support your wildest dreams: