Out & Across

Assiniboine — what a cool trek 😎

I’ve had this one on my radar for a long time, and it definitely lived up to the hype. We started at Banff Sunshine, made our way to Porcupine Campground for a night, and then spent two nights at Magog Lake before hiking out to Mt Shark. We had some smoky skies, but were lucky enough to get clear stretches with pretty incredible mountain views. Overall, we clocked 58 km of top-notch hiking over 4 days.

Thanks to Kevin, Justin, and Nigel for a great trip! The Rockies are always so good for my soul.

My first backpacking trip of the season happened a couple weeks ago. That’s right, I didn’t get out for an overnight hiking trip until July. If you’ve been in my world for any length of time, you know that hasn’t been the norm for several years.

But this has been a big year.

Five months ago, I moved to Dartmouth and started a new director-level gig. I left my nomad life behind after three years and settled into city life in Nova Scotia. Is it possible for a place to feel like home and also a bit unfamiliar at the same time? I think so.

Oh and then there was the biggest bummer: I broke my foot while trail running in May 😅 Thankfully, it’s been healing well. Thanks in part to physio and also my stubborn optimism.

Next week, I’m heading to Calgary. Another place that feels like home. Assiniboine, I’m coming for ya!

So, Pollet’s Cove was a great test hike. If you haven’t been, a popular spot for novice and long-time backpackers alike. It’s about 7km one way with 450 metres in elevation change. The views are incredible, with winning coastal vibes. Just watch out for the horses (they’ll nibble your tent). The coolest part was watching 50 seals bob close to shore on the hike back. I’ve never seen anything quite like that.

What’s been the highlight of your summer so far? New adventures or revisiting familiar places? Whatever it is, I hope it’s exactly what you need!

Three years ago, I stepped into a season of movement.

Since then, life has unfolded across highways, hiking trails, flights and ferry crossings, and quiet mornings in places that often began to feel like home.

I’ve watched the sun set over new landscapes, walked through forests and along beaches I’d never known, and followed rivers and mountains that seemed to be leading somewhere I needed to go.

Along the way, I met beautiful people who welcomed me into their worlds — sharing space and meals, trails and conversations, and simple moments of kindness. Many of you have become part of my story, and for that I’m so grateful.

“Home” became anywhere my people were, and now I have many homes to go back to.

Being a nomad over these past few years has taught me a lot about movement (in every sense), uncertainty, and trust. About how life rarely unfolds exactly the way we imagine, and how often the path reveals something we never thought possible.

Now a new chapter has begun ☀️

I’m not sure what the future holds for Out & Across. But for now, I hope this space continues to be a small invitation to spend time in wild places, and to reconnect with ourselves, each other, and the world that holds us all.

Because when we get out there, we have the chance to become a little more alive in a world full of possibility. That’s been my experience at least!

We were up early and out of Medellín before sunrise yesterday, catching the bus from Terminal del Norte into the hills.

About 1.5 hours later we arrived in El Retiro, a charming little pueblo that feels a world away from the city, with a beautiful central square, a big Catholic church, and cafés tucked into every corner. If you go, don’t skip Retiro Café… so good!

The trail started with a steady climb through the forest, winding past a few viewpoints before opening up at the giant cross overlooking the valley. One of those views that makes you pause for a minute and enjoy the sun.

From there, things got a bit wilder. A slippery descent through the jungle brought us down to the river and eventually the falls — Cascada Paso del Toro. Fresh air and a refreshing swim… until the sun dipped and the shivering started 😅

The final stretch was a bit of a test. Over an hour hiking directly in the river, following it downstream as light rain rolled in. Wet shoes, tired legs, but still smiles and laughs.

Back in town by late afternoon for coffee before heading back to Medellín. All in all, we clocked around 11 km and 800m of gain. I’ll remember this one for a long time!

Muchas gracias a Antioquia Travelers y Balu Coliving Medellin por la adventura 🙌

What a great way to start the day! Cerro de las Tres Cruces (Hill of the Three Crosses) is one of my favourite places to be outside in Medellin ☀️

Read more 👉 outandacross.com/cerro-de-las-tres-cruces-medellin/ueide

It’s good to be back in Medellín.

What a great day! Solid hike from Buenos Aires up to Santa Elena, about 7 km with roughly 800 metre elevation gain. A steady climb through cool forest, past La Espadera waterfall, and opening up to views of the city. Exactly what I needed.

Loved catching up with my friend Joe and meeting some new folks along the way.

Big thanks to Antioquia Travelers and Balu Coliving Medellin for a great experience! 🌿🥾

📷: Antioquia Travelers

Now that’s what I’m talkin’ about!! ❄️

Fredericton got a big dump of snow last night, and conditions were great for a Killarney Lake ski this morning (after I shovelled the driveway, of course). I hope you’re enjoying some fresh air this Sunday.

Who got outside this weekend? 🙋