Welcome to The Next Bend

Welcome to The Next Bend...

The author, Goldilocks, sitting on Mt. Marshall located in Shenandoah National Park during the golden hour....

Where the best stories start just around the next bend...

Hi, I’m Goldilocks—and if you’ve ever wondered what’s waiting around the next bend in the trail, you’re in the right place.

This blog was born somewhere between sore feet, spectacular views, and that quiet moment when you realize you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be. The Next Bend is where I’ll be sharing Tales from the Trail, lessons learned (sometimes the hard way), favorite hikes, gear tips, FAQs, and the little moments that make time outdoors so meaningful.

Fresh off my 2025 Appalachian Trail flip-flop attempt, I’ve got plenty of stories to tell—about trails that were too steep, campsites that were just right, meals that were… questionable, and the people and places that made the journey unforgettable. Some posts will inspire you to chase big adventures, others will help you feel more confident planning your first one.

Whether you’re dreaming of a thru-hike, curious about backpacking, looking for a great day hike, or just love a good trail story, this space is for you. Grab a snack, get comfy, and come wander with me—because you never know what you’ll find at the next bend.