I love the outdoors, almost as much as it feels like the outdoors can sometimes hate me. Whether it's day hikes, backpacking trips, or a cold drink at a campground, that's where I want to be. I've hiked on three different continents, and I'm excited to share all the things I learn with others. I'm also very, very afraid of bears.
If you’re taking a trip out into the cold, cold wilderness this winter, ice and snow are going to take a toll on you. They slow you down, make your legs sore, and can be absolutely miserable to deal with.… Read More »What are Microspikes?
As someone with both large and wide feet, I know the struggle of researching a great pair of trail running shoes or hiking boots without ever knowing if they’ll actually fit. Columbia is one of the most popular brands of… Read More »Do Columbia Shoes Run Big or Small?
Leave No Trace is a set of outdoor ethics promoting conservation in the outdoors. Following them preserves our parks and wild lands, protects animals, and makes backpacking better for everyone. There are seven principles that guide the Leave No Trace… Read More »Backpacking Basics: How to Leave No Trace
Hiking in the snow can be a ton of fun, but only if you’ve got the right equipment. When you read about hiking, you hear people mention different traction devices: snowshoes, crampons, microspikes, flip-flops, you name it. In many situations,… Read More »How Do You Know When to Use Microspikes?
Anytime you read through a backpacking guide or gear checklist, you’ll run across that term- the “ten essentials”. But, what are they, exactly, and why do they matter? The Ten Essentials, developed by Mountaineers Books, describes the ten things needed… Read More »Backpacking: What are The “Ten Essentials”?
In most parts of the country, the month of May is when life springs into action. Heavy winters and rainy Aprils give way to sunshine, warm temperatures, and endless outdoor fun. But, is that true in the Rockies? Mountain areas… Read More »Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park in May: Good Idea?
Packing for your next backpacking trip requires you to make tough decisions about what will and will not come along. The heavier that something is, the more you tend to ask yourself, “do I really need this?” This is a… Read More »Do You Need a Tent Footprint?
Most of the time, when you hear the word “Polyester”, it’s not in the most positive light. Commonly, people deride polyester because it’s a synthetic fabric. Hikers, backpackers, and people who love the National Parks, though, know that polyester clothing… Read More »Is Polyester a Good Base Layer?
In April 2021, the National Parks Service released a brand-new mobile app dedicated to America’s National Parks. It promises to be a go-to resource for all 423 National Parks, monuments, and designated areas. But, is it actually useful for backpacking,… Read More »National Parks Service App Review: Is it Useful?
