Author of “Desert Solitaire,” Edward Abbey, says there are three types of adventurers: Desert Rats, Mountain People, and People of the Sea. If you’ve ever wondered what type of Adventurer you are, answer these simple questions to find out. “Wilderness is not a luxury but a necessity of the human spirit, and as vital to our lives as water and good bread.”
You have the weekend off, what would you rather do?
A. Sail in the Great Salt Lake
B. Summit Mount Timpanogos
C. Climb sandstone pillars in Indian Creek in southern Utah
What motivates you?
A. Having a clear goal or set destination, and reaching it.
B. Being the first to reach my goals and making sure everyone knows it.
C. Having no set expectations, just enjoying the moment.
If you had a slogan, which would it be?
A. “If in doubt, paddle it out.”
B. “The mountains are calling and I must go.”
C. “Sand runs through my veins.”
If you had to be consumed by an animal, which would you choose?
A. Killer Whale
B. Grizzly Bear
C. Vulture
Who is your favorite poet or author?
A. Walt Whitman
B. Henry David Thoreau
C. Edward Abbey…duh.
What statement would you say best describes you in relationships?
A. My relationships are usually short lived, but my devotion is as deep as the ocean.
B. I enjoy company, but get cranky and need my space. I ultimately want to share my successes surrounded by people I love.
C. I need alone time and a lot of it.
Which of these smells turns you on?
A. Salty Breeze
B. Pine Needles
C. Sage Brush
If you answered mostly A, you are a Person of the Sea. People who know you may call you a Beach Bum, Sea Creature, mermaid or merman, or any other aquatic nickname. You tend to be wise and methodical in your decisions and a team player. For your next adventure, try floating the Great Salt Lake or rafting down the Green River.
If you answered mostly B, you are a bonafide “mountain man/woman”. You are brave outgoing and daring. You live for the moments where you can stand on top of the world where few others have stood. Take a weekend trip to Rocky Mountain National Park or hike any of our beautiful trails on the Wasatch mountain range. Try hiking up to Bell’s Canyon or Lone Peak on your next adventure.
If you answered mostly C, you are a Desert Rat. Congrats, Edward Abbey would be proud. You are now an honorary member of the Monkey Wrench gang. Well, maybe not. You enjoy challenges and being outside your comfort zone. You see beauty where others don’t. For your next trip, try backpacking in Moab or near Grand Staircase National Monument.
Photo by Carolyn Webber