Never hike alone again. That’s the idea. I stumbled across the Natural Sports Organization (NSEO) just over a year ago. I was actively searching for new hikes and places to pitch my tent far away from the hustle of the city, when I stumbled across this website. http://www.meetup.com/neverstop The NSEO is a group of individuals … More NSEO. Making friends, and enjoying life.
As the trees began to open up at the peak and the blue sky began to flow in, I could only think, “This, this is what I was looking for”. Located in the Jefferson National Forest near Mouth of Wilson, Va, the park offers variety that is hard to obtain anywhere else. You’ll find dense … More Grayson Highlands State Park, Virginia
This, can be terrifying. The sun is beaming down. You’re pushing hard to get in those last few miles before the evening begins to set in. You’ve done so well, eight miles in already. You’re on a roll. You’re focused, concentrating, and completely overlooking the fact that a few miles away a storm is rolling … More What to do when you are caught in a Lightning Storm
What I liked It’s light. It’s under 4 pounds, and considering the 2 doors and 2 vestibules, that’s pretty slick. It packs up like a pro, and it stays out of the way with the included tent sack. The price. $199 for a lightweight backpacking tent, I’m not complaining . Similarly weighted, dependable tents can … More L.L.Bean Microlight FS 2-Person Tent Review
This trip was a joy, and a joy for many reasons. Trip details including map and elevation profile can be found below. http://bp2.trimbleoutdoors.com/ViewTrip.aspx?tripId=47545 The crew was excited. It’s hard to contain the enthusiasm of 7 people who are all gathered to dominate a mountain. The first day was a long, 6 mile climb to the … More Trip Review, Sams gap to Spivey Gap. Appalachian trail. Flag Pond, Tn.
I’m not going to lie. Backpacking can get expensive, especially if you become a bit gear addicted like myself. Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be expensive. What happens when you aren’t willing or able to invest in all that fancy ultra light gear? There are alternatives that will get you out, and get you out … More Backpacking on a budget
I thought I was clever. Using a couple of tandem kayaks for an overnight backpacking trip has it’s advantages. It opens galleries of new spots that are otherwise unreachable by local trails surrounding the lake. We found a nice, open area with a nice view of the sunset of the crisp Tennessee water, set up … More A bear jacked my Pop-Tarts
The arrival 3:30 am, I pull into the dark, ghostly underbelly of Yosemite park. The sky is illuminated by the lights of the stars watching curiously over us as we gaze around into the valley. The Sky is dark, but dimly lit by the fairy like dots within. Just enough to contrast the alluring silhouette of … More Yosemite Park, Trip Report
Tonight was the night of the “super moon”. The night when the moon is closest, appeared largest, and was the brightest. For us, a typical backyard view wouldn’t suffice. Instead we opted for the less subtle approach. A mountain top view, neck deep in the clouds. A half mile in and our legs were already … More A Journey with the Moon. Looking Glass, North Carolina.
It’s not always easy you know. Organizing, planning, packing, it’s all simple enough; however without the proper thoughtfulness a strategic onslaught of nature can easily leave you bewildered, lost, annoyed, and even in serious trouble. With a few simple steps you can make sure you next trips (yes, that better be plural!) are not only safe, but … More How to plan a trip
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