Welcome to my corner of the internet where I’ll share my mix of photography, creative experiments, and the random musings that pop into my head. Some posts dive into capturing moments in Cleveland or on the road, others explore ideas, experiences, and curiosities that inspire my work. Think of it as part visual diary, part creative outlet. Always authentic, always in progress.Matt Rutter’s Blog
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro: 7 Days on the Machame Route
I didn’t plan to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. But over seven days, I found myself hiking through jungle, desert, and ice—with strangers, who became family—facing altitude, exhaustion, and doubt. This is the story of how the mountain let me through.
How I Trained for Kilimanjaro (and What Helped me at 19,000 Feet)
I wasn’t a hiker, but I trained like one. Here’s how zone-based cardio, strength workouts, and mobility drills helped me summit Kilimanjaro—and what actually mattered when the air got thin.
Ultimate Kilimanjaro Packing List: What I Brought
Planning a Kilimanjaro climb in July? Here's the complete packing list I used—what to wear, what to bring, what to rent, and why lighter is better when you’re heading to 19,000 feet.