Please help!

[Zachattack]

I think taking the easy route defeats the purpose of having a pet.. I want to challenge myself and give my snake the most natural environment I can while also keeping it safe and clean.

[DartEd]

It's not taking the easy route. It's about doing what is right for the animal not what feels good to you. Why listen to someone with over 20 years experience keeping healthy reptiles. You've obviously made up your mind. I'm tapping out of this one. Good luck.

[deranged chipmunk]

I think taking the easy route defeats the purpose of having a pet.. I want to challenge myself and give my snake the most natural environment I can while also keeping it safe and clean.

There's a big difference between challenging yourself and doing what's right for your future pet. You have a lot of experience offering advice here. If you choose to use it, wonderful. If not, I'm sure we wish you luck