Finding inspiration in the desert (whether you asked for it or not)

As I prepare for my 2026 journey north, traveling approximately 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada along the Pacific Crest Trail, I take advantage of every opportunity I get to get into the backcountry. As I make my way down the beaten path, I can’t help but be inspired by the vibrant colors of the leaves around me and the beauty of nature at its finest. What does it mean to be inspired by our environment? In other words, how can a vast nature influence a finite mind, like mine?

There’s nothing like heading out into nature for inspiration… and immediately wondering why everything out there wants to bite, sting, prick, or chase you. But somewhere between the blisters, the questionable trail foods, and the sudden realization that the so-called «stick» on the ground in front of you is actually a large snake of some kind, nature still offers something magical.

Or at least memorable.

1. Nature reminds you that you are not always in charge (not even a little bit).

You could walk into the forest feeling like the main character in a fantasy adventure. Five minutes later, you trip over a root, get hit in the face by a branch, and negotiate with a mosquito like it’s a hostage situation.

Humble? Yes. Inspiring? Also yes, because once you realize that you are not in control, you relax and enjoy the fact that no one cares if you look ridiculous.

And believe me… you will. I have learned that when I am willing to accept the suck and push myself beyond all comfort and control (unable to completely dictate my every move), an inner shift will inevitably occur. In other words, to be inspired by nature is to be transformed by nature into a better and stronger person.

2. Silence helps you think (unless it’s too quiet).

Ah, the peaceful tranquility of the desert…

…until your brain starts making up scenarios.

«Did that sound like a squirrel or a serial killer?»

“Is that tree supposed to creak like that?”

“Why does the wind whisper my name?”

Over time, you calm down and start having deeper thoughts, like, «Wow, I should do this more often,» or «Wow, I should never do this again.»

Either way, growth happens!

3. The journey shows you progress you didn’t know you could make.

Progress occurs in everyday life. In the wild, progress is measured in miles… or how many times you’ve cried along the way. While hiking the Appalachian Trail in 2023, I shed my share of blood, sweat, and tears. No pain, no gain, they say.

But nothing is more inspiring than realizing you’ve climbed to the top of a ridge using only your legs, determination, and the promise of snacks. There is a certain power in reaching a peak and thinking, «I did it!» Even more power when thinking, «And I did it wearing clothes that absolutely smell like mountain goat.»

4. Nature does not judge (But it will try to kill your dignity).

Nature accepts you exactly as you are. He won’t make fun of your mismatched hiking socks, your tired gasps, or your tragic attempt to hang a bear bag. He won’t judge you but he will absolutely expose you.

Like that moment when you try to cross a stream and end up swimming impromptu. Inspiring? Sure. Inspiring you to practice maintaining better balance before your next trip? Absolutely.

5. Challenges make you stronger (or at least more creative).

When you’re cold, hungry, and your backpack rubs your shoulders like sandpaper, you start to think more creatively. You start to think about how nice it would be if your store had room service. You convince yourself that the rock you are sitting on is really comfortable. And those annoying insects? They just greet you, they don’t drain your life force like a swarm of little vampires.

But when you move on, you realize something important: if you can survive this, you can survive anything. Including real life. And that’s the kind of inspiration you can’t buy at REI.

6. Amazement is different when you are tired.

There’s nothing like an incredible sunset after a long day on the trail. Suddenly, all the sore leg muscles, blistered feet, and panic over whether you packed enough toilet paper vanish. You stand there thinking, «Wow. This view is amazing. I should do this kind of thing more often.» That mix of beauty and terror may seem contradictory at first glance, but I think it’s quite inspiring. When we teach ourselves to focus on the positive aspects of our lives, the pain and suffering we face along the way becomes more bearable and sometimes even quite pleasant. (They called it type two fun).

7. Nature helps you disconnect… Especially because you have no other option.

No cell service. No emails. No fatal displacement. Just you, your thoughts, and occasionally a forest creature that looks at you like you owe it money.

Without distractions, you start to remember things like: Who you are. What you want in life. And why did you think carrying a 30-pound backpack for over 2,000 miles would be fun?. Clarity comes differently when you’re covered in dirt.

In the end… inspiration finds you even if you are a mess.

Nature doesn’t need you to be brave, wise or elegant. He just needs you to show up. Even if you fall into a stream. Even if you scream when a twig snaps. Even if you end the day smelling like a mix of sweat, pine, and regret. Because somewhere between chaos and tranquility, inspiration sneaks in, like the mosquito in your tent.

If you’re looking for inspiration, go outside. Maybe just bring extra snacks…and a sense of humor like me.

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