“Why have I never used these before?!” I quietly exclaimed to myself as I skipped down the side of an ice-covered ridge in Yosemite National Park. Rather than boulder-hopping and mountain-goating from stone to stone as I had on my way up the mountain, I was suddenly free to move, parading over frozen streams and mini-waterfalls with the grace of a Bolshoi dancer. The reason? Microspikes.
I’m not entirely sure why it took me so long to buy a pair, or why my little forest-obsessed
Where do you find your inspiration?
By Andrea Willingham
I confess: I’m a sucker for a good story with a strong heroine, and we’re not talking Scarlett O’Hara here. We’re talking that rare breed of female lead that somehow seems to elude most mainstream media, disproportionate to the number of male protagonists that dominate our literary landscape and cultural narratives.
Although this topic has become of great interest to me in the last few years, I have tended to shy away from addressing
The Appalachian Trail – What to Expect and How to Prepare…
In 1996 I met an author who would change my life and never even know it. His name is David Brill, and he is a freelance writer for men’s magazines. He spoke to a writer’s group I was in about his thru hike of the Appalachian Trail in the 1970’s because he had just written a book about it 20 years later. The title of the book is As Far as the Eye Can See and it includes excerpts from his journal
What to do if you lose communication while camping?
Sponsored Post
For many of us, there is nothing like going into the great outdoors to get away from the stress and strife of modern-day life. Unfortunately, however, while being out in the wilderness is great to unwind, it’s still nice to have some connection to the outside world, which is why we also bring our phones with us. However, trying to get reception can be a huge pain, and if you ever lose your device while out in the woods, it can
6 Safe and Super Fun Ways to Go Camping with Baby
I’ve enjoyed camping since I was little, and it’s probably one of the few activities that have remained constant in my life, from childhood through adulthood. And now that I have a family of my own, I especially enjoy being able to go camping with all the members of our little household.
Yes, that means I regularly go camping with baby in tow. I’ve realized that a lot of people don’t think it’s possible to do so – it’s
By Nicole Anderson
Many of us live for the time when we get to experience the outdoors. We are constantly planning the next great escape from the city to again be at peace with the serenity, majesty and wonder of nature.
Often in our pressured, busy lives it is so easy to forget a few things that would make our experience in nature all the better. How many times can you recall running late to get away from your routine and in your rush, you overlooked things you wished you hadn’t? If you’re
Personal protection against bears – guns or bear spray?
I spent seven years as a backcountry ranger in northern British Columbia, and one of the questions I got asked the most was, “do you carry a gun out there?” They seemed genuinely concerned when I told them that I usually just carried bear spray.
To many folks in the north, and I’m sure wherever gun culture is prevalent, bear spray is seen as something a gimmick. I can understand that. I have been approached
9 Points About Using Menstrual Cups While Camping on Your Period
Thinking of using menstrual cups on your adventures in the great outdoors (or anywhere for that matter)? Here are nine points to consider.
How to Prepare For Motorcycle Camping From a Woman’s Point of View
By Daniela Schoenberg
As a woman motorcyclist, you want to make sure you’re prepared for your exciting camping adventure. Taking your bike on a long ride to the great outdoors is a great way to spend time with friends, family, or just by yourself.
Whether you’re going for a short ride/stay or you’re in for a longer adventure, these are the things you need to know for your trip.
Make sure your bike is ready to go. If
While the mosquito is a part of the ecosystem, it’s probably our least favorite part. Additionally, heavy exposure to DEET has been linked to all kinds of symptoms such as: headaches, fatigue, muscle and joint pain, shortness of breath, and is particularly toxic for small children.
Here are some other, more natural options.
Lavender not only smells fabulous—but it’s great for repelling mosquitoes as well!