This collaboration was completely unexpected and I was THRILLED when Exploring Alternatives contacted me Spring 2020 to see if I’d be interested in working with them. I’ve been a huge fan of this incredible YouTube Channel for years! The collection of people and unique living situations featured on this channel are the best I’ve found. Some of the stories are amazing, it’s fascinating to see how others mold their brand of happiness. I’m honored to be included in this group of interesting people from around the world. Be sure to check out some other videos on Exploring Alternatives YouTube Channel, you’ll be impressed!

Colorado's Most Idyllic Off-Grid Cabin

In central Colorado near the San Isabel National Forest, this cabin was built entirely with timber and materials from the ranch on which it sits. It’s equipped with a wood stove, gas cooktop, sauna, outdoor shower, sleeping loft, and enough ice skates to outfit a hockey team. Brian Galyon of Colorado Backcountry Adventures walks us through the cabin and shows off his digs for the winter.

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Made of More: Brian Galyon

The Collegiate Peaks of Colorado are unmistakable mountains; spinal vertebrae of the Continental Divide. Eight of Colorado’s fifty-six “14ers” are stacked along this 34-mile section of the Sawatch range, like waves crashing on shore. They are characterized by their tall, broad elevations and treeless summits. Glacial lakes are a signature definition of these mountains––many discovered and patiently reachable, some less. One of those is a remote sapphire jewel, Slide Lake.

Slide Lake is roughly 10 miles to the north and west of the historical town of Leadville, the highest incorporated town in North America. An area rich with mining history and one that attracts climbers and those wanting the ultimate tests of mountain sports. It’s here in this wilderness you’ll find endless horizons––and frequently––you’ll find, Brian Galyon.

Brian Galyon––built lean, with an honest look––comes here throughout the year to hike, fly-fish, camp and enjoy the immense solitude. He also comes here to work. Brian is a volunteer with the United States Forest Service, serving the Leadville and Salida Ranger Districts of Colorado. Along with his energetic dog, Sierra, Galyon has spent the last 3 years committed to maintaining hiking trails and BLM lands of the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness, as well as the Pike and San Isabel Forests…

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I’ve had the pleasure of mobbin’ with Phil from Down2Mob Overland a number of times and we always end up having a great time! I enjoy meeting up with other full-time nomads and Phil makes it a point to live life to the fullest. Starting out in Arizona, Phil spent his first year on the road driving all the way up to the Arctic Circle and back logging over The first time we met up was in Sedona during the epic 2 foot snowstorm which took place February 2019. The red rocks looked incredible and I certainly was thankful to hang out in Phil’s “Dodgemahal” camper with the diesel heater as temps dropped below freezing. Another full-time truck camper from Alaska, Adventure Brad, joined us and we all enjoyed trading stories from life on the road in the podcast “Chatting about the Overland lifestyle”.

Here are a few video collaborations which are sure to entertain!

Are YOU Down2Mob?

A Cell Phone Booster is Essential for VanLife / TruckLife / Nomadic Living

Guest Post by Brian Galyon

On July 5th, 2015 my second shot at life began. I was disillusioned with the “Corporate Grind” and decided to make wholesale changes in my life. My goal? Hit the road in a 4×4 truck to see the world without the tether of a physical address. I put all of my personal belongings on Craigslist emptying out my house in just under three weeks and outfitted my Toyota Tacoma truck with all the gear necessary for self-supported travel on 4×4 trails in the American West.

I’ve spent every day of the past 4 1/2 years camping, hiking, fly fishing, and enjoying nature with my energetic four legged friend, Sierra. We primarily travel on dirt roads and 4×4 trails in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Arizona. The terrain is incredible and my lust for adventure grew leaps and bounds with each passing day.

During my travels, I began to notice an enormous amount of trash on Public Lands so I decided to take action by becoming a full-time volunteer for the US Forest Service. I formally adopted 15 USFS motorized trails and spent my time picking up trash while performing trail repair work so other outdoor enthusiasts could enjoy the splendor of nature without seeing the impact of irresponsible human behavior. I absolutely love it and volunteering is a great way to give back to Public Lands. …(continued...)

Brian’s Tips for Becoming a Digital Nomad:

• Test it out before you jump in. Push yourself to stay out for long periods of time to gain perspective on what it’s like to be off-grid on a part-time or full-time basis. A test drive helps you work through any challenges you may encounter and develop troubleshooting techniques for the real deal…

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