Three miles into what was supposed to be a leisurely day hike in the Cascades, I knew I had made a terrible mistake. My brand-new hiking boots, which felt fine during the five-minute test walk around the store, were now creating hot spots on both heels and cramping my toes with every downhill step. By […]
How Should Hiking Boots Fit: Your Complete Guide to Perfect Footwear Read More »
When you picture Puerto Rico, golden beaches, historic forts, and vibrant city life likely spring to mind. But venture beyond the coastline, and you’ll discover an island teeming with diverse ecosystems, dramatic landscapes, and incredible opportunities for exploration on foot. From lush rainforests echoing with the calls of coqui frogs to unique dry forests and
Amazing Hiking in Puerto Rico: Explore the Trails! Read More »
Three years ago, I stood at 11,000 feet on a Colorado peak, gasping for air like a fish out of water while a 60-year-old hiker cruised past me with a casual wave. That humbling moment taught me everything I needed to know about high altitude hiking preparation: it’s not just about being fit—it’s about training
How to Train for High Altitude Hiking: Your Complete Preparation Guide Read More »
Three years ago, I made the classic mistake on a spring morning hike in the Cascades. The forecast showed a perfect 50-degree day, so I threw on a cotton hoodie and jeans, thinking I was prepared for a comfortable day on the trail. By mile two, I was drenched in sweat from the steep climb,
How to Train for High Altitude Hiking: Your Complete Preparation Guide Read More »
Three years ago, I made a decision that changed my entire approach to outdoor living. Instead of settling for a job in a hiking-poor location, I specifically targeted cities that offered the perfect combination of career opportunities and incredible trail access. After extensive research and multiple scouting trips, I discovered that some cities truly deliver
How to Train for High Altitude Hiking: Your Complete Preparation Guide Read More »
Ever peeled off a pair of boots after a muddy, magical trek and wondered if they’d ever look or smell trail-ready again? I’ve shared campsites with folks who toss their grimy boots in the garage and hope for the best—and then wonder why their next hike leaves them with blisters, wet socks, or a funky
What to Wear Hiking in 50-Degree Weather: The Complete Layering Guide Read More »
Picture this: mile 8 of what was supposed to be an epic 12-mile loop trail in the Cascades. My stomach was growling louder than a hungry bear, and I was practically drooling thinking about the gourmet sandwich I’d packed that morning. Turkey, avocado, fresh tomatoes, the works—basically a deli masterpiece. I found the perfect lunch
Hiking Lunch Ideas That Won’t Leave You Hangry on the Trail Read More »
I’ll never forget my first mistake with a trekking pole tent—standing there in a steady drizzle at 8,000 feet, fumbling with guy lines while my hiking partner had his freestanding tent up in two minutes flat. That’s when I learned the hard way that these minimalist shelters aren’t just about cutting weight—they’re about mastering a
Why Your Next Backpacking Tent Should Be a Trekking Pole Tent Read More »
Three miles into my first real mountain hike, my legs were already screaming. My buddy Sarah, meanwhile, was practically floating up the trail ahead of me with what looked like ski poles in her hands. “You should try trekking poles,” she called back, barely breathing hard. “They’re game changers.” I rolled my eyes and muttered
The darkness hit me like a wall as I stepped into the first tunnel. My headlamp beam disappeared into the void ahead, and the temperature dropped 20 degrees instantly. I was hiking the Historic Railroad Trail at Lake Mead, and these weren’t just any old tunnels—they were massive 25-foot-wide bore holes blasted through solid rock
Historic Railroad Hiking Trails: 47 Epic Converted Rail Routes to Explore Read More »
