What you pack in your Bergen can make or break your trip. Here is a stress free guide for first time backpackers. A Bergen bag is an essential part of any backpacker’s kit and can help you ensure that you are ready for anything. The Bergen is the bag of choice for many backpackers as it has a number of different compartments designed to hold all of your kit. However, having the space to hold all of your travel essentials is one thing but knowing the best way to pack your Bergen is … [Read more...]
Avoid hiking alone, have a plan, & understand your limits
April 11, 2013 By Leave a Comment
Avoid hiking alone If you’re familiar with the Aron Ralston story, you’ll understand why you should never hike alone. Ralston, an avid outdoorsman and adventurist, became trapped in a slot canyon while hiking through Utah’s Blue John Canyon in April of 2003. While descending the slot canyon, a massive 800-pound boulder became dislodged, crushed his right hand and trapped him against the canyon wall. Not only was Ralston alone, but nobody was searching for him because he hadn’t … [Read more...]
Why You Should Be Using a Layered Clothing System
April 11, 2013 By Leave a Comment
Why You Should Be Using a Layered Clothing System The age old method of layering combined with new fabric technology means that you can be at your optimum temperature to conquer that day hike, trail, trek or mountain. The base layer, i.e. the first layer you wear is to regulate moisture; the mid layer is for insulation and the outer layer protects you from the wind and rain. The beauty of layering is that you can remove and add layer if needed. The Base Layer This is the layer you wear next … [Read more...]
Springer Mountain … it’s that time of year again
April 11, 2013 By Leave a Comment
It's that time of year again when excited (and sometimes anxious) thru-hikers start arriving at the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail at Springer Mountain. This year the A.T. clocks in at 2,185.9 miles according to the Appalachian Trail Convervancy's Data Book. It grew in length by 0.7 miles over last year and included a relocation just north of Rockfish Gap in Virginia. Here's some inspiration for those of you that are traveling North: The northern terminus at … [Read more...]
The Merrell Brand: How does it Look Out for its Customers?
February 27, 2013 By Leave a Comment
The Merrell Brand: How does it Look Out for its Customers? When it comes to purchasing outdoor footwear, consumers are spoiled for choice in the contemporary market. As individuals have become increasingly aware of the benefits of living an active and healthy lifestyle, they have sought to participate in a number of outdoor activities. This has created intense competition in the fitness and sports footwear market, as brands have strived to gain a critical edge and promote themselves … [Read more...]
Are you Wearing the Right Hiking Footwear?
February 15, 2013 By Leave a Comment
If you are new to hiking, you may not want to pay for a pair of hiking boots that you will only wear once. However, if you plan to make hiking a regular hobby, it is not wise to think that your running trainers will double up as hiking boots. While running trainers are made for outdoor pursuits, hiking involves tackling tough terrain and requires a shoe or a boot that boasts superior support. If you are buying hiking boots for the first time, you may be tempted to invest in a big bulky design. … [Read more...]
Newfound Gap Road Closed Due To Landslide
January 17, 2013 By 3 Comments
Fortunately, we had no delays during our annual winter hike in the Smokies last weekend, but Newfound Gap is now officially closed per the Hiking The Smokies blog: "A landslide along Newfound Gap Road near mile marker 22 has caused an extended closure of the road. Great Smoky Mountains National Park has closed Newfound Gap Road (U.S. 441) due to a landslide which undercut the road near mile marker 22 between Collins Creeks and Webb Overlook at 9:40 am. The slide is estimated to be a 200 foot … [Read more...]
