Monthly Archives: April 2010

Arizona to close state parks

Once again, budget shortfalls put state parks on the chopping block. The most recent state to present this solution is Arizona, where they propose shutting the gates to a third of the state’s parks to help close a huge budget shortfall. Arizona has 30 state parks, and among the parks closing are popular destinations like…

Review: Deuter Pace 28SL

Known for their innovation and quality, German backpack manufacturer Deuter presented a few new styles at the most recent Outdoor Retailer Winter Market back in January. One of these packs is the Pace 28SL, an ultralight pack designed specifically for women. Read more for our full review on this versatile pack.

Save the date: Northwest National Park Family Day

If you live in the Seattle metro area, mark your calendars on May 2nd, when the NPCA and National Park Service will be hosting the Northwest family day event at Seward Park right here in Seattle.

Trail Report: Rattlesnake Ledge

A popular hike with better views than Little Si. Five miles round trip and lots of parking. What’s not to like?

Review: Prana Stretch Zion Pant

Pants that work anywhere from ‘mountain top to coffee shop’. Well, that’s what Prana claims. We put them to the test. Read more for our review of the Prana stretch Zion pant.

Latest news in the quest to ban BPA

The controversy over BPA and whether it should be banned in food containers has made it all the way to the Capitol. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D.- California) has introduced a bill this week that would ban the chemical in food and beverage containers. Though many manufacturers have already voluntarily switched to BPA-free containers and materials…

Review: Saucony ProGrid Xodus

If you’re looking for all the features of a burly trail running shoe but without the weight, check out the ProGrid Xodus from Saucony. Read more for our full review.

Review: Columbia Sportswear Silver Ridge capris

Though the weather here in the Pacific Northwest is just starting to warm up, summer will be here before we know it. If you are looking for a lightweight option for hiking on those days where it just isn’t quite warm enough for shorts, check out the Silver Ridge capris from Columbia. Read more for our full review.

Review: Manzella Versatile Gloves

Ultra warm soft shell gloves? According to Manzella, that’s not a mistype. Read more for our review of the Manzella Versatile gloves.

Review: Oboz Contour hiking shoe for women

Light hikers and trail runners have become some of the most common shoes on the trail, and as a result, manufacturers are designing a lot more for the market. At the most recent Outdoor Retailer I learned about Oboz, a shoe company from Bozeman, Montana that has a wide selection of hiking boots, shoes, and trail runners for both men and women. Read more for the full review of the Contour hiking shoe.