Wanderings And Ponderings

Fort Scott, Kansas, is this small town down in the southeastern part of the state, but it’s packed with history, especially when it comes to the American frontier and the Civil War. It started off as a military outpost back in 1842, meant to keep the peace between settlers and Native Americans in the nearby Indian Territory. The town really found itself in the thick of things during the whole "Bleeding Kansas" period in the 1850s, when pro-slavery and anti-slavery groups were literally fighting over whether Kansas would come in as a free or slave state. Later on, during the Civil War, Fort Scott became a major Union post, acting as a supply hub and hospital. My buddy Big Ray and I actually rolled into Fort Scott right as the sun was setting, and it made for a pretty awesome experience. The way the light hit those old Victorian-style buildings downtown gave the whole place this kind of golden glow, like you’d stepped back in time. Walking around as the day was fading, you coul...

Nestled in the Appalachian hills of eastern Kentucky, Jenny Wiley State Park blends stunning natural beauty with a compelling piece of regional folklore. The park is named after Jenny Wiley, a frontier woman who was captured by Native Americans during the late 1700s. Her escape and journey back home through the wilderness has become a powerful symbol of resilience and courage. Established in the 1960s, the park not only honors this legacy but also invites visitors to immerse themselves in the outdoors through hiking, boating, and wildlife watching. Things to Do at Jenny Wiley State Park Hiking Trails The park features several scenic trails that range from easy walks to more rugged routes through the Appalachian terrain. Whether you’re looking for a quick nature stroll or a longer adventure, you’ll find a trail to match your pace. Fishing and Boating The calm waters of Dewey Lake offer a peaceful setting for fishing and boating. Anglers can expect a variety of fish, and boat rentals ...

Natural Bridge State Resort Park in Kentucky is one of those places that instantly takes your breath away. Nestled in the heart of the Red River Gorge Geological Area, this park is best known for its massive sandstone arch—Natural Bridge—a geological marvel that has been shaped by wind and water over millions of years. Standing 65 feet high and stretching 78 feet across, the arch is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the state. Hiking to the Bridge and Beyond The park’s most popular hike, the Original Trail , is a moderate climb that leads directly to the top of Natural Bridge. Though it’s not the easiest trek, the payoff is well worth the effort. Once you reach the top, you're treated to panoramic views of the surrounding forested gorge, layered ridgelines, and endless sky. For those looking to explore further, the park offers more than 10 miles of scenic trails. Hikes like Balanced Rock , Lover’s Leap , and the Rock Garden Trail lead visitors through towering sandston...

I’ve been fortunate enough to visit Muir Woods twice in my life, and each time has been an absolute joy. The towering redwoods and serene, untouched environment left me in awe, as no pictures could ever capture the true beauty and scale of these ancient trees. Walking through the forest, surrounded by nature’s quiet grandeur, felt almost otherworldly. If you’re ever in the San Francisco area, Muir Woods is an absolute must-see. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect from the busy world and experience the wonder of one of nature’s greatest treasures. Follow me on Instagram: @MikeIsOutside Muir Woods National Monument Muir Woods National Monument is a beautiful, peaceful forest just north of San Francisco in Marin County, California. It’s known for its towering coastal redwoods, which are some of the tallest and oldest trees on the planet. Walking through this forest feels almost magical—these trees can grow over 300 feet tall, with some living more than 1,000 years. The cool, misty...

Mount Nebo State Park, nestled in Yell County, Arkansas, has a rich and fascinating history that dates back over a century. Perched at 1,350 feet, Mount Nebo offers breathtaking views of the Arkansas River Valley and has drawn visitors seeking natural beauty and cooler temperatures for generations. But the story of how this scenic area became the popular park it is today is tied to the region’s development, the rise of tourism in the late 19th century, and even the Great Depression. Follow me on Instagram: @MikeIsOutside Early Days and the Birth of a Resort Community Long before Mount Nebo became a state park, Native Americans lived in the area, drawn by the mountain's resources and the shelter it provided. By the mid-1800s, settlers began to move in, carving out small farms on the mountainside. The real turning point came in 1889 when a businessman named A.H. Purdue saw the potential of Mount Nebo as a resort getaway. Back then, Arkansas summers could be brutal, and people were al...