Journal Entry: Why I Still Run to the Mountains (And Why You Should Too)
By Lara Davies
People always assume I’m “living the dream” — that being a mountain guide means every day is an adventure.
But if I’m being honest?
Most days, I’m working in the wild, not wandering it. I’m focused on other people’s safety. I’m watching weather patterns, managing group dynamics, double-checking routes. Rewarding? Absolutely. But relaxing? Not really.
So when I need to breathe again — properly breathe — I take off.
No itinerary.
No inbox.
No clock.
Just me, a camper van from VDub Adventures, and the open road.
Some Things Don’t Need a Reason
I don’t do it for the content.
I don’t do it for the step count.
I do it because my body asks for it.
The need to be outside isn’t a phase for me. It’s not a “wellness trend.” It’s wired into me. I feel jittery in cities and calm under clouds. I’ve always been that way.
A van gives me just enough comfort — a warm place to crash, a spot to make coffee in the morning — without taking me away from nature. That’s why I go with VDub Adventures. Their vans are smart, tidy, and just rugged enough to match the landscape.
What I Don’t Post About
I don’t always share the quiet bits. The early morning fog rolling across the hills. The deep sleep that comes after a day outside. The way my mind softens around the edges — less rush, more rhythm.
But it’s these moments that reset me. The fresh air. The silence. The space.
You don’t need to hike 20 miles or climb a ridge to feel that shift. Sometimes just parking somewhere green and staying still is enough.
Not Everyone Feels Ready (Yet)
Look, I know not everyone feels confident heading into the hills on their own.
That’s why, when I’m not exploring, I’m teaching. Through Lara Davies Outdoors, I offer small-group navigation courses built for people who want to get out there — but feel uneasy doing it alone.
We keep it relaxed. We make mistakes together. And by the end, you’ll be able to look at a map and say: “Yeah, I can do this.”
Because you can.
You just need someone to show you how.
Here’s My Suggestion
Book a van from VDub Adventures.
Give yourself a weekend. Just one.
Let the road decide where you go.
Camp by a lake. Follow your nose. Let the kettle boil slowly.
And if part of you is still nervous? Come learn with me first. I’ll help you build the skills to get lost — and un-lost — with confidence.
You don’t need to be a mountain guide to explore.
You just need a little time, a good map, and a van that starts.
Lara