Today, we would assault the first “pass” of the Four pass loop. The goal was to summit West Maroon Pass, descend in the valley and rest up for tomorrows’ summit, Frigid Air Pass. Shortly after leaving camp, we were devoured in the most beautiful meadow I have ever seen. The valley opened up, with the … More Four Pass Loop, Maroon Bells Colorado (part 2)
I found myself unhappily sitting on a wet tree that had fallen in the woods. My butt was wet, uncomfortable, and not particularly happy about it. From the corner of my eye, I could see it. The small, yellow, childish apparatus that Laura, who was sitting next to me, was using. Her butt was dry, … More Thermarest Z Seat Review
The Big Agnes Lost Ranger is a 15 degree, down, sleeping bag. While the bag falls into the “classic” series that Big Agnes offers, there’s really nothing traditional about. First, it includes the fancy new DownTek technology, which adds a water repellent compound to the down feathers. Secondly, the sleeping bag has no insulation on … More Big Agnes Lost Ranger Sleeping Bag Review
I’ve always been a fan of Big Agnes tents; however, their gear tends to be quite expensive (and worth it). What happens when a company famous for making high end tents decides to put their hands in the the affordable realm? The Lost Spring Series tents happen, but do they hold that BA quality? About … More Big Agnes Lone Spring 3 Tent Review
Laura Falls is a rare spot. It’s an amazing hike with a huge payoff, but with minimal effort. You’ll receive beautiful views of the river, cascades, rock walls, bridged river crossings, succulent forests, and at the end, a spectacular, gushing waterfall that stands several stories tall. I classify this hike as a mild hike, and … More Laurel Falls, Hampton Tn
It was a long, long drive, with seven people and seven backpacks piled into the chambers of a rented Dodge Caravan. 24 hours of road time, plus stops and rest breaks makes for a lot of time to think. It was the thoughts, the wonder, the curiosity, the fantasy of my boots on the dirt … More Four Pass Loop, Maroon Bells Colorado (part 1)
It’s not as easy as you think, especially when you’re on a long trip and a water source you were relying on turns up dry. Don’t panic, with a little thought and consideration you can still make it out without having to drink your own pee. Bring the right amount of water: So often people … More Staying hydrated
Grandfather mountain is only about an hour from where I live, which makes the fact that I have only visited the mountain once previously utterly absurd. To correct my act of trail blasphemy, I decided to host a hike to one of the famous peaks, Calloways Peak, on one of the less famous trails, the … More Grandfather Mountain, North Carolina, Daniel boone Scout trail.
It’s seemingly rare, the idea of doing things the hard way just because they’re harder, but that’s exactly the idea that I had. Typically, people will hike through this section from Carvers Gap to US 19E in which you basically drive to the top of the mountain before hitting the trail. Most will hike out … More Summiting Roan Mountain, NC
If there is one thing you really need to keep dry when backpacking, it’s your sleeping bag and your clothing. Here comes the Sea to Summit Dry sack to help you out, or crush your dreams. About the dry sack: The Sea to Summit eVent Compression Dry sack has simple intentions. The idea is to … More Sea To Summit eVent Compression Dry Sack review
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