Author: oneal.family09

  • From a Vandoit to a Tundra: Settling Down

    From a Vandoit to a Tundra: Settling Down

    For 4.5 years, home was a rented Vandoit and the open road — 50 states, countless national parks, and a lifetime of memories. In June 2026, our son Kypton told us he was ready to plant roots. So we did.

    One chapter closes, another opens

    We drove back to Kansas City, returned the van, bought a Toyota Tundra, and pointed it toward Colorado. It was not the end of adventure — just a new shape for it, built around Kypton training full-time for mountain-bike racing.

    Same family, same dog, same love of exploring. Just a home base now, with the mountains out the window.

  • Why We Moved for the Trails

    Why We Moved for the Trails

    People ask why a full-time travel family would suddenly settle down. The short answer: Kypton. The longer answer is world-class singletrack and a junior racing scene that pushes him every single ride.

    Training out the front door

    Colorado puts big climbs, fast descents, and a national-level race community within reach. For a young rider chasing the podium, that is everything. We can roll from the driveway to a trailhead in minutes.

    We will be sharing trail favorites, ride days, and the occasional wipeout right here. Stay tuned.

  • Chasing Alpine Lakes Above 11,000 Feet

    Chasing Alpine Lakes Above 11,000 Feet

    When we traded full-time van life for a Colorado home base, we did not trade away the adventure — we just changed the backdrop. Our new backyard is stacked with high-country lakes, and we have made it our mission to hike to as many as we can.

    The first one took our breath away — literally

    At over 11,000 feet the air is thin and the climb is real. But cresting that final ridge to a glassy, turquoise lake ringed by granite peaks? Worth every switchback. Luna agreed.

    New to hiking at altitude? Take it slow, pack more water than you think you need, and start early to beat the afternoon storms. More trail notes are on the way as we work through the list.