Kirsten Park

Glacier National Park has been on my bucket list for way too long. I think it suffers from being close enough to think “I’ll get there next year,” but too far to plan on a whim. Every time I start to put it in my summer plans, the transportation logistics slow my roll.

Being born and raised in Alaska, and living 25 years in Utah, I've had a lifetime of adventures. I've been to every state (except Michigan) and to many countries. My favorite adventures are a tie: Backpacking into the Grand Canyon via Hermits Trail & spending three nights on the river, and then mountain biking the White Rim in Canyonlands NP. Both were a stunning physical feat, under the darkest skies imaginable! I'll update my photos with my newest adventures. Our National Parks are the best!

The prize money would allow me to go on a dream backpacking trek along the Hadrian Wall Path. The wall began being built in 122 AD and runs almost coast to coast in northern England. The 73-mile path goes alongside the Hadrian Wall, or in some cases, what is left of it. The novelty, temperature, scenery, historical significance and challenge are all compelling to me. I am fortunate enough to backpack with my gal pals, all in our 50s and 60s, and I'd take them with me!