In this interview, I speak with Ashley “Bear” Clawson about her incredible solo journey across 50 national parks in the lower 48 states over five months. Bear was my former colleague in Austin, Texas, and one of my favorite hiking companions. She was part of the team that trekked to Havasu Falls last year! In our chat, Bear reveals what inspired her trip, the lessons learned, and her favorite parks.
Name: Ashley “Bear” Clawson
Age: 34
Hometown: The Bay Area, California
Country Count: 16
Social Media: bearnomadic
1. What sparked your interest in hiking?
Relocating to New England transitioned me from running to trail running, and ultimately to hiking. I quickly became hooked on the tranquility and clarity that nature offers, which is accessible to anyone willing to seek it out.
2. What motivated this trip?
It was about redefining my life. I aimed to enhance my quality of living by simplifying my life. I donated most of my belongings, vacated my apartment, left my job, and hit the road. The route to the parks focused my energy and I hoped to achieve some self-discovery along the way.
3. How long did the journey take, and what was your route?
The entire adventure spanned about five months. Initially, I camped in Carson National Forest, hiked Wheeler Peak, built earth ships, and explored White Sands National Park, which became official shortly after my visit. I began my hiking journey at Acadia NP in Maine and traveled counterclockwise around the U.S. until I finished all the parks. [She started in mid-June 2019 and wrapped up in November 2019.]
4. Can you share some memorable adventures from your trip?
I zoomed around a lake in a rental boat with some Belgian hikers, camped without a tent in a sandy area within the Redwoods alongside a Native American fishing community, and tackled the Beehive, Cascade Pass, and Yosemite Falls with dear friends. Although I spent most of the trip solo, I cherished shared moments with others.
5. Which lesser-known park surprised you the most?
While not unknown among hikers, Glacier NP truly amazed me. On the trail to Grinnell Glacier, I encountered countless wildflowers, vibrant blue lakes, cascading waterfalls, and expansive glacier remnants in the waters. The combination of stunning scenery and challenging hike made Grinnell Glacier one of the highlights of my trip.
6. What was your biggest challenge during the trip, and how did you address it?
My main struggle was knowing when to stop planning and actually embark on the journey. I mapped out my route, took survival courses, invested in gear, and eventually realized I couldn't prepare for every possible scenario. Sometimes, being overly meticulous in planning can hinder action. I just had to get started. If finances are a concern, consider what lifestyle changes can help minimize travel costs. Do you really need multiple subscription services? Can you skip the luxury hotel for your next trip? I’m currently in Indonesia, having paid $350 USD for my flight and $157 USD for a month in a hostel. I live simply, which allows for longer travel.
7. What budget tips can you share for keeping expenses down?
Living out of my car forced me to limit my belongings, leading to a better understanding of what I truly need to survive. Now, I own just what's in a 5×5 storage locker in Austin and a carry-on suitcase I take everywhere. I don’t have a car anymore and have eliminated all bills except my phone, homeowners insurance for the storage unit, and a few essentials. I primarily buy groceries, keeping my monthly expenses (excluding food) under $200.
- GEO Blue (Blue Cross Blue Shield) Travel Insurance – $47
- Garmin Safety Plan – $17
- Garmin Account Fee ($24.95/year) – $2
- USAA Homeowners Insurance – $8
- Public Storage Locker – $22
- AT&T Phone Bill – $45
- Bank of America Maintenance Fee – $5
- Capital One Account Fee ($39/year) – $3
- iCloud 2TB Storage – $10
- Audible – $16
- Express VPN – $13
TOTAL $187 (Excluding food, housing, transportation, etc.)
[Bear didn't track her exact expenses during the hiking trip but estimates around $10K for the five months based on her dwindling savings. She had a car payment but sold her car before heading to Bali, where she currently resides.]
8. What important lesson did you learn about yourself or the world from this trip?
Stepping away from our daily routines reveals our true selves. For me, travel combats complacency, allowing me to break free from societal norms and engage with new people and places. Essentially, travel enables me to discover and understand who I really am.
Finding freedom means investing time into understanding yourself and living accordingly, even if it challenges societal expectations.
9. What advice do you have for women hesitant to travel solo?
My initial solo international trips were to China, India, and Mexico City. Despite warnings from others, I ventured forth. The positives outweighed the risks each time. I encourage women to build confidence through research and supportive networks. Read travel blogs, watch videos, and connect with fellow solo female travelers for insights. Most importantly, surround yourself with encouraging individuals who reinforce your goals.
10. What three essentials did you pack for this adventure?
My phone (iPhone X), Garmin inReach GPS, and my knives—the SOG Terminus and SOG Survival knife. These items provided me with a sense of safety throughout the trip.
For more insights on budget travel, check out these articles on saving for travel and the art of budget travel.
