Summer 2026 Update
I’m in prep mode for this year’s Sierra trek. I have a permit to backpack North on the John Muir Trail from Onion Valley to South Lake in August 2026 and will be joined by some close friends, Lord willing. The route is 62 miles as planned.
I’m following a new program this year called Hike Strong by James Appleton. I’m a few weeks in and currently strength training twice per week, along with anaerobic zone training, rucking once per week and trying to follow Thoreau’s example to get outside and walk every day. I will share the results and provide feedback once the program is complete.
I wanted to write to provide an update for those that follow along with my varied interests on this site. In an effort to improve the quality of my writing, and for further educational development I am planning to return to school in the fall. I’m a middle-aged auto-didact returning to school for the education it provides, less motivated by the piece of paper that documents when required courses have been completed. I’m a few classes away from a degree in Aviation Maintenance Management and that will likely be part of the journey but my desire is to grow in the areas of Literature, History and Philosophy. If I feel inclined to change directions and find a new path I will consider that as well.
The Curious Trail along with the Into the Range of Light website was originally intended to become a hub for all my interests that converge on the High Sierra. That vision holds but I wanted to share that I am taking the long road on development. The goal is not to become a Content Creator. The goal is not to become an Influencer. I just want to share my love for these specific mountains with anyone who is curious enough to follow along and listen to the stories that emerge. New posts including Poetry, Photography, Trip Reports, and/or Essays may be few and far between. I will post when I have a desire to share something I find interesting, but I will not place any pressure on the frequency the content is released.
For many paths in life I take a “lamp unto my feet” strategy.
I’ve always enjoyed contemplating Psalm 119:105 which reads:
Your word is a lamp to my feet
and a light to my path.
I believe I have enough light to see the next step, and I’m content not knowing what I’ll find around the bend or over the next ridge. Not knowing is part of the adventure. The journey is greater than the destination.