Seeing as the twice yearly gear-fest that is Outdoor Retailer is a few weeks away, I figured I’d feature a product or two that we’re looking forward to seeing at OR. Magellan recently released a new hiking GPS that replaces the Triton series as the top of the line.
Monthly Archives: July 2010
Review: All Terrain Herbal Armor
While summer has been in full swing for quite some time in most parts of the country, it’s just starting to warm up here in the Pacific Northwest. And with those warmer temperatures come mosquitos, biting flies, and other pesky insects. However, with all the studies about the long-term effects of DEET, I started looking for a DEET-free alternative. All Terrain’s Herbal Armor is a 100% DEET-free and all natural insect repellent. Read more for our full review.
Review: Adventure Medical Kits Roundup
If you’ve ever ventured into the first aid section of your local outdoor retail store, you’ve probably seen Adventure Medical Kits products. First providing hikers and backpackers with pre-packaged first aid kits designed specifically for outdoor pursuits, AMK now has a wide selection of products ranging from first aid and survival tools, to insect repellent…
Solo climber evacuated from Denali’s Kahiltna Basecamp
Last week, a 25-year-old climber on Denali had to be evacuated with the assistance of the military. The solo climber had been reported to the NPS after strange behavior and statements made other climbers question the mental stability of the man. This wasn’t the first interaction the Park Service had with the climber, though. On…
“Barefoot Bandit” apprehended in Bahamas
The much-talked-about young outlaw, Colton Harris-Moore, from the Pacific Northwest has been arrested in the Bahamas after eluding the authorities for over two years. His nickname was derived from his “calling card”–barefoot prints left at the scene of the crime. At only 19 years old, Harris-Moore’s criminal history dates back to middle school, where he…
Going to Mt Baker-Snoq National Forest? Time for a new map.
If anyone is planning on heading to Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest (aka Seattle’s back yard), as of this weekend you’ll need to make sure you have the new map. The forest service isn’t going to sign roads as to permissible use anymore and you are responsible for knowing which road that you’re allowed on. Don’t…
The Economic Impact of National Forests and Grasslands
The USDA Forest Service released a report this week detailing the economic impact of recreation in our National Forests and Grasslands. It turns out that we Americans spend a rather large amount of money on our way to the forest. A total of $13 billion is spent directly in the communities surrounding the forests, which generates a further $14.5 billion in economic activity.
Paving the trails of Great Britain
Hikers in Great Britain are up in arms about a recent “improvement” made to one of their national parks. Mount Snowdon, in Britain’s Snowdonia National Park is the highest peak in Wales, measuring in at 3,560 feet above sea level. While this may seem like a walk around the block for those living in the Pacific Northwest or the Rockies, it’s a different matter across the pond.
Review: Rainier Mountaineering Inc.
If you’ve ever thought of climbing Mount Rainier, chances are you’ve heard of Rainier Mountaineering Inc. (RMI). The company has been guiding clients up the mountain since 1969 and until somewhat recently was the only game in town. Even today, the company guides the vast majority of the people that climb Rainier every year. Figuring…
Review: Carb Boom Energy Gel
For the past six to nine months, I’ve been looking for a high quality energy gel at a lower cost than GU. While I make a lot of my own energy gel these days, it’s nice to have some pre-made gel on standby if I get lazy. So, whenever I run across a new gel,…