Hoppys' Adventures

09/02/2026

Trying one of the local places for dinner!

09/01/2026

08/11/2026

Update on my plans…to make a long story short, I’m “stuck” in Flagstaff for at least a couple more days. My check engine light was on in the truck before I left. Took it to the local dealer, did what he suggested and figured it would turn off. Fast forward to Friday and it was still on so I went to the dealer here in Flagstaff. It was still throwing the same code. Unfortunately he couldn’t get me in on Friday but after a little pleading, and letting him know about my plans to head to Jacob Lake, he said he’d try to get me in on Monday.

I dropped it off this morning, went for a bike ride and shortly after getting back he called and said they were able to look at it. Unfortunately it needs a couple of sensors and a filter, or a couple of filters and a sensor…He ordered them this morning and will hopefully get them in tomorrow morning. If so, then I should be able to get the truck back tomorrow and still be able to make it to Jacob Lake on Wednesday. Unfortunately my overnight backpacking permit is for Tuesday night so that’s not happening.

It’s a bit of a downer, but there are definitely worse places to be stuck than the KOA in Flagstaff. I’m within a short bike ride to great restaurants, plenty of food and drinks in the camper, and miles and miles of hiking trails right from the front door of the camper, so I’m really not complaining.

Special shout out to Kaibab Camper Village just outside of Jacob Lake. I called them on Friday when I knew I wasn’t going to be there Sunday so they just keep pushing my arrival and departure date. So assuming I’m able to make it there, I won’t lose any money from that reservation!! I really appreciate their flexibility! They could have very easily said sorry, you can’t make the dates you originally reserved, so you’re out the money.

Never a dull moment when camping…

08/06/2026

All set up for a few days in Flagstaff. Not to make anyone jealous, but I’m sitting outside after a little shower came through and I’m almost chilly. My weather station says it’s 70, but with the breeze it feels a bit cooler.

06/16/2026

Busy morning. 3 mile hike, then biking down Route 66 to breakfast at Miz Zip’s. 🌲

06/14/2026

Day 16 of 20. Didn’t expect to see hail in June ⛈️ 🤣

06/14/2026

Toughest hike I’ve done in a LONG time! But still one of my favorites. There are so many trails accessible right from the Flagstaff KOA. Made it back about 30 minutes before the rain. Glad I didn’t slack off anymore than I did.

06/11/2026

Zapata Falls, Mosca, CO. Natalie Dean David Hopfensperger

06/11/2026

Day 9 of 20 - Short (but all uphill) hike to Zapata Falls near Great Sand Dunes NP. You have a spectacular view of the dunes AND the falls!

06/11/2026

Day 8 of 20. We did sunset at The Great Sand Dunes National Park. I didn’t think we’d have time to make it up High Dune for the sunset, so I made it up about half way and said “good enough”. Hoppy, on the other hand, hoofed it all the way up. Definitely worth it! Look at these pictures! 🌄