If you spend a lot of time hiking, backpacking, or on the river, you know that you shouldn’t’ take glass out in nature. This may seem like common knowledge, but those who are new to outdoor recreation may not realize that carrying glass in nature is dangerous, and often prohibited. Why is it bad to carry glass in nature? People don’t usually make a conscious decision to bring glass with more »

Finding that perfect gift for the dad who has everything can be a real challenge. Fortunately, we have some insight if your dad loves being outdoors. Here are ten great Father’s Day gift ideas for outdoorsy dads! Knife A good knife may be the most classic Father’s Day gift, and the thing about knives is that you can never have too many of them. There lots of different knives out more »

Keeping cool while hiking in the summer is a struggle. In fact, some would say that it’s a losing battle. Still, there are a few things that you can do to help keep your feet cool and increase your comfort while hiking in the summer. Look for shoes without waterproofing It doesn’t matter if it’s going to rain or you’re on a route with several river crossings. Ditch the waterproof more »

People don’t always realize that a waterproof rain jacket, no matter how nice it is, needs some TLC every now and then. There’s an undeniable sense of satisfaction that comes with watching rain drops beading up on a brand new rain jacket. Of course, there’s also an immense sense of despair when that once impervious rain jacket starts getting waterlogged. Even if you spend big bucks on a name brand more »

A tent footprint is an entertaining name for a surprisingly useful piece of outdoor gear. Here’s a bit of information about tent footprints, and why you should seriously consider investing in one. What is a tent footprint? Tents don’t have feet, so how can they have a footprint? A footprint is basically a piece of material that you put beneath your tent. This can either provide a tent floor for more »

Some activities require specific outdoor gear. You need a harness, rope, and rock climbing shoes for a day of sport climbing, and you need a kayak, paddle, and a pfd for a day of floating. That harness doesn’t do any good in the water, and your paddle just gets in the way at the crag. Of course some items are useful no matter where you go or what you do. more »

This is blasphemy, right? Camping without a building campfire is like eating a BLT without the bacon. Many people rely on campfires for lighting and cooking, and some just don’t consider a camping trip complete unless they build a campfire. Of course, there are times when you shouldn’t build a campfire. Why you shouldn’t build a campfire Sometimes it’s dangerous to build a fire. Obviously, if there’s a burn ban more »

We’re living in the Golden Age of obscure holidays. Everything has its own special day including doughnuts, hot air balloons, and talking like a pirate. Some of these days are easier to get behind than others. National Trails Day is a holiday that any outdoor enthusiast can be about. What is National Trails Day? National Trails Day (NTD) takes place each year on the first Saturday in June. At it’s more »

Summer is the most popular season for camping in the U.S. Of course, summer isn’t the most ideal season for camping. You have ticks, chiggers, mosquitoes, snakes, and other critters out in full force. There’s poison ivy and sumac in full bloom. Then, there’s the sweltering summer heat. Summer highs can cause even the most avid outdoor enthusiast to wilt. Here are a few tips to increase comfort while camping more »

America observes Memorial Day each year on the last Monday in May. While the holiday is often viewed as a summer kick-off and an occasion for cookouts, BBQs, and pool parties, it’s important to remember what Memorial Day signifies. Memorial Day is a remembrance of the American men and women who have died while serving in our country’s military. Those who serve in the U.S. military help ensure the safety more »