Gear Review – Gossamer Gear Mariposa 2025
Joan looks at 2025 Gossamer Gear Mariposa. It’s a pack she’s used for a while in both the 2014 and 2016 iterations and she compares and contrasts the various iterations. Read More …
Author: Joan
Gear Review – Squak Camp Dress
Joan looks at her new favorite car camping staples these past few months – The Squak Camp Dress. Read More …
Sewing lightweight tall gaiters
Joan’s rocked a skirt and long gaiter combo for ventilation and protection from the sun and brush for many years now. Here’s her MYOG instructions on making a pair. Read More …
Gear review – Lightheart Gear Base Layer Shirt
Joan looks at a base layer shirt designed by a woman for women and made in the USA. Read More …
Gear Review – Squak Mountain Co. fleece hoodie
Joan reviews the $60 Squak Mountain Co grid fleece hoodie. Based out of Utah, it’s a Melly-style hoodie for active use. No appointment is needed to purchase! Read More …
Dealing with Reynaud’s Syndrome – Gear and techniques
Joan shares some thoughts on gear, techniques, and skills she uses to deal with Reynaud’s Syndrome while in the outdoors. Read More …
How to make staying local into a #epicadventure
Joan shares five tips on how to find joy in the local areas. Read More …
Sleeping systems – Joan’s Picks
Joan’s thoughts on sleeping systems for winter, cowboy camping, hammock camping, and more and what works best for her. Read More …
Thoughts on hiking solo
Joan shares some thoughts on her solo hiking experience. Read More …
What’s in your mail drop?
Joan details what she places in her maildrops for long hikes and why. With a focus on her cold food (no stove) strategy.
Hands-free umbrella rigging
Joan shares her techniques for using an umbrella hands-free. Bonus: She also shares some unique, and colorful, alternative uses for an umbrella, too! Read More …
Gear Review: Six Moon Designs Silver Shadow carbon umbrella
Joan reviews this 6.8 oz (193g) carbon fiber shaft umbrella after many miles of hiking in Utah, Nevada, and on the PCT. Read More …