After a winter season mushing dogs in Wyoming, I explored the southwest for three amazing months. In Utah, I explored canyons with friends and learned how capable my body is when I trust it; in Arizona, I helped put away a hot air balloon and was surpised by forests full of elk. California amazed my with highly varied ecosystems; Joshua trees, skirted palms, painted canyons, and beutiful beaches had me hooked in an instant.