A few years ago, Kahtoola introduced the MICROspikes, a lightweight traction device that can be worn over any style of sneaker or boot. Since then, there have been quite a few other manufacturers to jump on the bandwagon. And although it may be the middle of June, we still managed to find a trail to test a few pairs. Read more for our full review.
Monthly Archives: June 2010
Volunteers needed: Mountain Stewards at Mt Baker
Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest is a popular place for hikers here in Washington State. However, with so many people traveling the trails each year, they need to be maintained, and of course the first step to maintaining trails is educating hikers about Leave No Trace ethics. It’s not uncommon to see a list of the…
China sets Everest age limit
In the wake of the extremely controversial summit of Everest by 13-year old Jordan Romero, China has instituted age limits to those allowed to summit Everest. The China Tibet Mountaineering Association that regulates the permitting process for climbing the north side of Everest released the new restrictions Thursday. From now on, climbers must be between…
Half Dome cables to be installed June 15
This year will mark the first year that permits are required for Half Dome climbs on weekends and holidays. Historically, those have been the busiest times on the route and climbing permits will keep the routes safe during peak times. Although there is only a $1 administrative fee (to cover the online permit registration process),…
Review: Osprey Manta 20
The list of small backpacks with big pack features is pretty small these days. Osprey’s Manta 20 makes a go at it.
Trail Report: Mailbox Peak
There are trails you hike for the scenery. There are trails you hike just to see if you can. This is not the former.
Photography classes in Yosemite National Park
Looking to improve your outdoor photography skills, and want to check out the latest photo equipment from Canon? This month American Park Network and Canon are teaming up to present a free series of photography classes in Yosemite National Park.
Review: La Sportiva FC Eco 3.0 GTX
The FC Eco 3.0 GTX from La Sportiva is a light to mid weight hiker designed for activities like day hiking or lightweight backpacking. As you would expect in a pair of $160 boots, La Sportiva used Vibram soles and Gore-Tex to keep water out. However, this is just the beginning. La Sportiva has put…
Fee-free days at the National Parks
The National Park Service is continuing their fee-free parks days again this summer, as they were such a hit last year. The first weekend on the calendar is just a few days away–June 5th and 6th. Over 100 parks in the system will be participating.* Other fee-free dates on the calendar for this year are:…
Trail Report: West Tiger Mountain #3
One of the closest hikes to downtown Seattle; also one of the busiest.