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2022 Year in Review

This marks the final newsletter I’ll be sharing for 2022. I thought it would be fitting to take a moment to reflect on some of the year's most memorable moments.

calico caves
Throughout 2022, I embarked on various rappelling and canyoneering excursions. One of my favorite spots to explore locally is the Calico Caves, which I guided four times this year. Here’s a photo of me aiding one of my guests as they enter the cave.
52 Peak Club
I am a proud member and leaver of the 52 Peak Club This year, we successfully ascended 52 different mountain peaks surrounding Las Vegas. For each unique peak you conquer, you receive a card commemorating that achievement. I was thrilled to earn my first full set of cards on Mummy’s Nose, where I snapped this photo on July 3. At present, I’ve collected 18 cards towards my second set.
kayak journey
In February, I wrapped up the last segment of an extensive 115-mile kayaking expedition that started at the eastern side of Lake Mead and concluded at Davis Dam near Bullhead City, AZ. This image captures a lovely cove we camped in during our final night.
gager station
Speaking of my kayaking adventures, here I am making my way up Gager’s Station north of Willow Beach. This has been on my to-do list for two decades. Recently, with the river high enough for me to reach the ladder, I took my chance, despite facing barriers set to deter adventurous individuals like myself.
santa cruz island
Yet another backpacking journey that I ticked off my bucket list was to Santa Cruz Island. I spent three days hiking from Prisoner’s Cove to Scorpion Ranch. This picture shows me standing atop High Mount during the excursion.
high sierra trail
My most significant achievement this year was completing the remarkable 72-mile High Sierra trail. In this image, I share a moment with my friends Nolan and Tina at the peak of Mount Whitney. You can find six entries in the newsletter archives detailing our six-day adventure.
trip to france
In September and October, I had the joy of taking a four-week journey through France, Monaco, and Bavaria. Earlier newsletters featured recommendations for exploring Paris and Munich.
Russell Gulch
One of the standout trips of the year for me was the Subway in Zion National Park. We rappelled down through Russell Gulch. Although I faced some technical issues with my photos, I’m including a shot of our trip leader, Luis. I’m eager to revisit this experience in 2023, assuming I can secure the necessary permits, which can be quite challenging.
trip to kauai
During spring break, I took a family trip to Kauai. This was my fifth visit to Hawaii, but it was my first time exploring the beautiful Garden Isle. In the background, you can see the breathtaking Wailua Falls, famously featured in the opening sequence of Fantasy Island.
burning man
I was thrilled to attend Burning Man for the second time. Pictured here with one of my inspirations, Wonderhussy who did a show I am too shy to describe.

I hope you’ve enjoyed revisiting these memories with me. It was quite a challenge to select just a few photos that encapsulate the entire year.

As I conclude, I wish for your upcoming year to be filled with health, happiness, and prosperity!