Madison Doner

05/23/2026

In honor of the REI Anniversary Sale, here are just SOME of my favorite outdoor staples.

From hiking must-haves to everyday adventure gear, all of these are on sale through Monday 5/25. Meaning this is the perfect excuse to finally grab those items sitting in your cart. 👀

05/11/2026

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and honestly…it’s been a struggle for me lately. I’ve been feeling like I’m missing out. The weather is finally nice out and I feel this pressure to be outside every second, hike more, do more, enjoy every sunny day.

Meanwhile, real life still exists — work, responsibilities, exhaustion, commitments, needing rest.

Just a reminder to myself that your worth isn’t measure by how productive, adventurous, or outdoorsy I am this season. It’s okay to slow down, be an adult, and miss a mushroom season.

There is still plenty of sunshine and beauty to come. 🌲

05/06/2026

All smiles for North Carolina

Started in Asheville celebrating, then slowed things down in Bryson City with a stop through Great Smoky Mountains National Park in between.

Places to visit:
🛘Jump Off Rock – overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains one of the best panoramic spots near Asheville
🍴Early Girl Eatery – iconic local breakfast
🤠Shining Rock Goods – vintage western heaven
🛶Nantahala Outdoor Center – whitewater rafting hub on the Nantahala River + a great stop even just to hang by the water
💧Deep Creek Waterfall Loop – short hike/nature walk to three waterfalls tucked in the Smokies
🍺Downtown Bryson City – small mountain town charm, walkable + close to the Smokies entrance

05/04/2026

Hiking to a cave in a national park? Yeah… this is my kind of therapy

After celebrating my friend’s wedding in Asheville, we spent the rest of the weekend tucked away in the little mountain town of Bryson City—and made time for the iconic Alum Cave Trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

🥾about 4-mile round trip
💦river crossings, narrow ridgelines, and lush forest views
🛘 more of a massive overhang than a cave, but still a good hike and fun view
⏰ Definitely a popular trail, so go early if you can. Mostly just to get a parking spot.

05/01/2026

🦋 I feel so grateful that the Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium reached out to me to help fundraise for Missoula Gives!
The Missoula Butterfly House & Insectarium is raising funds during Missoula Gives, and it’s such a special place for our community—hands-on, educational, and honestly just really cool.

If you can, consider donating or sharing 💛 Every bit helps develop new programs, bring in new bugs, and continue to fuel the curiosity in our community. DONATION PERIOD CLOSES MAY 1 AT 5PM MST

Help Madison Doner's fundraiser efforts for Missoula & Bitterroot Gives