"There is something funny about nostalgia; you feel its pull before you can even name it, reminding you of everything that's shaped you. I grew up in Talkeetna, Alaska, and like most small town kids leaving their hometown for the first time, I swore I'd never come back...But as many do, I eventually found myself back in Alaska." In Issue 14, Ayla Loper shared the story of a weeklong skiing and rafting trip down the Eldridge Glacier, and how it brought the place she grew up—and her connection to that place—back into focus. As told to Sarah Stern. Only available in print in Issue 14. Grab your copy alongside a subscription at the link in our bio. Photo: Ayla Loper #adventureoffline #sleepinthedirt