Exploren Borgen

12/10/2025

You can only pick two, but...

A. You get first dibs on backcountry permits each year, but if you miss a reservation or don’t complete one, the rest for the year are void.

B. You get unlimited gear for new outdoor hobbies, but no one else is allowed to use your gear.

C. No injuries while hiking, but someone gut punches you in the parking lot once a year.

D. Never need to train for outdoor activities, but you need to run a marathon each year.

E. Always have a front row parking spot at the trailhead, but once a year, you’ll get a flat tire.

Okay, so now what are your top two picks?!

I think I am going to go with A and C.

Be sure to follow along, with more relatable outdoorsy content!

12/09/2025

The sketchiest, craziest trails always lead to the most insane views out there!

With Havasu Campground Reservations opening soon it’s time to start planning and preparing for the best trail in the Southwest.

This trail down to Mooney Falls was sketchy at best and dangerous at worst. The gloves people leave behind are a lifesaver so don’t hesitate to use them! Or bring your own but make sure to pack them out.

But what do you think? Will you be hiking down to this waterfall?! Let me know in the comments!

12/08/2025

Let’s go to San Juan Island!

If you’re looking for the perfect outdoorsy getaway, might I suggest San Juan Island? It is currently off-season for the island, so going on a weekend is best to make sure everything you want to experience is open and available. However, by going in the shoulder season, you guarantee smaller crowds and a more relaxing experience. I find myself going to the San Juan Islands year-round for this very reason.

Here is everything you should do on San Juan Island:
🐋Whale Watching - By charter of from the shore
🍺 Grab a drink and chicken tenders at San Juan Brewing
🥾Go on a hike at Lime Kiln Point
🎭 Walk around the Sculpture Park
🌊 Stroll along the beach
🍷Sip a wine flight at Madrone Cellars
🎟️ Explore the Whale Museum
🛍️ Shop the boutiques in Friday Harbor
🚣Go sea kayaking
🦊Search for Foxes at American Camp

Have questions about visiting San Juan Island? Let me know in the comments and be sure to follow ExplorenBorgen for more PNW located itineraries!

12/08/2025

7 Best Sleeping Pads for Backpacking (+ Budget Friendly Options)

Searching for the best sleeping pads for backpacking? As a light sleeper, constantly trying to get the perfect night of sleep in the backcountry, I have tried LOTS of different pads. Here are some of the best pads I've tried, and some of my outdoorsy peers preferred pads. Why this blog? Hey! My name is Sarah, and I am on a mission to share everything I have learned as a city girl turned outdoorsy girl....

Searching for the best sleeping pads for backpacking? As a light sleeper, constantly trying to get the perfect night of sleep in the backcountry, I have tried

12/05/2025

Comment “list” and I’ll share my AllTrails list for December Hikes in Washington.

First of all, how the heck is it December already? Second of all, it is not time to put away your hiking gear yet.

December is one of my favorite months to hike in because the trails become whimsical and less populated.

However, trail, road, and weather conditions get a little questionable. So before you head out, make sure everything looks safe. Additionally bring plenty of layers and extra snacks!

Be sure to save this post for future inspo and hit the follow button for more PNW Trail recs!

12/04/2025

Postcards from my hiking trip in Oaxaca’s Indigenous Highlands with

Above all else, what stood out to me on this trip was the camaraderie of our group. By the end of the 5-day trip, it had felt like I had known the people in our group for years.

And that is the beauty of group travel. You can go in without prior knowledge about anyone going except that you’re all interested in doing this one [thing]. And that one [thing], in this case hiking in Oaxaca, is enough to create an understanding of each other.

What an incredible feeling to learn together, hike together, share meals together, and laugh together.

If you’ve ever questioned if a group trip is for you, try it! Pick a trip that involves something you enjoy, like hiking in Oaxaca, wine tasting in Italy, or city touring in Vienna. All of which are Intrepid Short Break options, btw. It’s easy to put yourself out there and try something new as long as there is some foundational interest.

Have questions about group travel or traveling with Intrepid? Let me know! I’d love to help ya out!

12/03/2025

It’s tough out there!

But I think if I take baby steps I can accomplish these goals in 2026!

What crazy goals do you have for 2026?!

New here? Hey my name is Sarah! I am a full time teacher and part time adventurer. You will find me hanging out outdoors almost every weekend in some capacity! Be sure to follow to catch all the adventure vibes!