Adventures of Bill and Crystal: A Journey Since 2018
Since their first meeting in October 2018, Bill and Crystal have shared a love for the outdoors, embarking on countless adventures together. This page captures every memorable moment—from challenging hikes and scenic campsites to dancing in slot canyons and exploring hidden trails. Each post unveils a new chapter in their journey, reflecting their joy in discovering breathtaking landscapes and making memories along the way. Join them in revisiting these stories, and see what keeps their adventurous spirits alive year after year.
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Backpacking to Mirror Lake: 3 Days in Rocky Mountain National Park
Three days in the Rocky Mountain National Park brought moonlit skies, mirror-like lakes, hidden alpine ponds, and star-filled nights. Between storms and sunshine, we found beauty in every step—a backcountry escape that left us both humbled and renewed. Read more
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Where the Water Hides: A Hidden Falls Adventure in Wyoming’s Granite Wilds
Winding through pine forests, granite boulders, and creekside bridges, this hike to Hidden Falls in Curt Gowdy State Park delivered cool waters, quiet wonder, and a touch of wild magic—another unforgettable chapter in our Western Wanderlust journey. Read more
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Trail to the Tundra: Ute Trail to Milner Pass + Alpine Ridge Views
We hiked from alpine tundra to subalpine forest on Rocky Mountain National Park’s Ute Trail, with sweeping views of the Never Summer Mountains, Forest Canyon, and Poudre Lake. Bonus: a summit hike up Alpine Ridge with Rawah Wilderness vistas. Read more
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Wild Hearts & Waterfalls: A Canyoning Chicks Weekend in Moab
A weekend of waterfalls, slickrock, and sisterhood in the canyons of Moab. From icy rappels to sunlit arches, this all-women adventure with the Canyoning Chicks Coalition was a joyful, muddy, and unforgettable celebration of courage, connection, and wild beauty. Read more
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Firelight & Forest Trails: A Wild Fourth in Rawah Country
We celebrated the 4th of July with mountain air, quiet trails, and firelight in Roosevelt National Forest. From creekside coffee to a moose sighting and log crossings, this long weekend was a peaceful reset wrapped in wild beauty. Read more
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Bear Creek Falls: A Telluride Trail of Mist and Majesty
Tucked just beyond downtown Telluride, Bear Creek Falls delivers forested trails, canyon views, and a misty waterfall finale. From spontaneous detours to birdwatching surprises, this 4.5-mile hike was full of unexpected wonder—proving that sometimes the best moments happen before you ever reach the falls. Read more
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Chasing Mist: Hiking to Bridal Veil Falls
Bridal Veil Falls is Colorado’s tallest free-falling waterfall—and hiking to its base is pure magic. Misty air, lush cliffs, and tiered cascades make every step worth it. Join us as we chase waterfalls in the heart of Telluride’s wild beauty. Read more
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Moody Hill & The Quarry: Crawling Through Colorado’s Wild Side
Moody Hill and the Quarry kicked off our 4×4 season with rocky climbs, wildflower views, and off-road fun. From technical challenges to peaceful moments among pines and birdsong, this Colorado trail delivered adventure, beauty, and a whole lot of grit. Read more
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Muddy Paws & Misty Pines: A Rainy Ranch Escape
Cozy camper mornings, curious canine visitors, and cow-pie mischief—our rainy weekend in the Wyoming hills brought foggy views, muddy adventures, and heartwarming moments. Sometimes the best memories are made when the sun hides and the dogs steal the show. Read more
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Gripped by Stone: A Descent Into Constrychnine Canyon
Constrychnine Canyon pulled us deeper—into darker narrows, longer rappels, and moments that demanded total focus. With steep drops, stunning chambers, and gritty teamwork, it challenged us in all the right ways. A canyon that leaves you changed—in the best way. Read more
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Where the Canyon Narrows, We Deepen: A Day Inside Slideanide
Day 1 led Bill and I deep into Slideanide Canyon—an unforgiving maze of sandstone, downclimbs, and shadowed beauty. Every obstacle tested our skills and focus, but the reward was worth it: a deeper connection to the land, the challenge, and each other. Read more
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Desert Solitude and Sandstone Arches: A Solo Journey Through Coyote Gulch
A solo spring backpacking trip through Escalante’s Coyote Gulch brought desert solitude, canyon magic, and star-filled skies. From wildflowers in the wash to the towering beauty of Jacob Hamblin Arch, this adventure was equal parts challenge, peace, and awe. Read more
Western Wanderlust Chronicles 