Welcome!
My name’s Matt, and I love to write and hike. I’m the author of 4000s by 40 and am currently working on book two. When I’m not doing that, I come here to share tales from the trail, reflections on the writing process, and explore hidden truths.
Whether you’re a hiker, a writer, or just someone trying to figure out their own next step, I hope this site encourages you to keep getting outside, keep exploring, and keep making new discoveries. I suppose this place serves as a very public reminder to myself that I need to keep doing the same.
Enjoy it out there!
What’s New
-
The Middle Age Myth
Since writing 4000s by 40, one of the comments I get a lot—which I never anticipated—is that forty is not middle age. During the AMC Awards night, where I had a table selling my book, a number of fifty-, sixty-, and even seventy-year-olds pointed at my display, nudged a friend, and laughed. “Look—forty is middle…
-
The Backcountry Code
Last week I went backcountry skiing in an undisclosed location. I could tell you about it, but I can’t say with any certainty that if I did so, a representative of the Backcountry Illuminati wouldn’t put a hit out on me. You see, backcountry skiing locations are sacred ground, where those willing to make the…
-
Feeling Far Away Without Going Far: Wildcat Falls
I love winter hiking, but I get that it isn’t for most. It’s not the easiest recreational activity, both effort-wise and logistically. Especially this winter, when the snow keeps piling on. But, if you’re willing to give it a try, I’m willing to bet that you’ll find the experience very rewarding. My new rhythm for…
-
The Artist
Eighty years he lived, a man of principle. Of responsibility. Waiting for the day, when he’d finally be free. After all lines were crossed— the job, the mortgage, the house, the kids to adulthood with the spirit he espoused. But there was always another thing. Another step in the way. Another phase that kept him…