10+ year gear review – Flytop tent
An off-hand purchase about a decade ago of our current backup/loaner tent makes me think of the place and use of budget gear items. Read More …
New Year’s on the Colorado Plateau
A few days of solo backpacking to bring in 2024. Read More …
Gear review: Topo Athletic Ultraventure 3 shoes
A look at the Topo Ultraventure 3 shoes. I found these shoes a worth successor to the 2s. I only wish for less flashy color choices! Read More …
The long winter nights – What to do?
Winter backpacking means solitude, gorgeous winter light, and long nights. Here’s what Joan and I find works to make those long nights enjoyable. Read More …
2023 in review
A look over 2023 with some photos and a few thoughts. Read More …
December Fog
Some camping and hiking in the cold and dense fog.
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Camping with Steve
“Camping with Steve” is calming and strangely addicting. Well worth giving it a watch. Read More …
Another December overnight
Another December weekend backpacking in canyon country. Read More …
Dirt Bagger Winter Stove Platform
How to build an inexpensive stove platform for winter backpacking. Bonus: doubles as a heat reflector.
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An overnight in December
Joan and I enjoy going to certain places at specific times of the year. We enjoy going to the more well-known places in winter because we see fewer people, and the winter light and the red rock mixed in with Read More …
Gear pick of the year 2023 – The Gift of Time
The gear pick of the year for 2023? The best gift for any outdoors person – The Gift of Time. Read More …
20+ years Gear Review – Military Surplus Wool Liner Gloves
As winter approaches, I am reminded of one of the items we use all year around: Surplus wool liner gloves. A long-time favorite for twenty years now and a favorite budget pick for both Joan and I.
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Budget day hiking kit
A budget-minded gear list for day hikes in three-season alpine conditions. Read More …
Solo camping cook kit
A more in-depth look at the solo camping cook kit we put together for some trips Joan did this past year that seemed to sparked some interest. Read More …
Thanksgiving 2023 – In the desert
Thanksgiving in the desert with friends means camping, hiking, and some turkey dinner cooked in a Dutch oven. Read More …
Ten plus year review – Nemesis Safety Glasses
A review of Nemesis Safety Glasses. Affordable, light, functional, comfortable and durable. And after over ten years of use, perhaps one my favorite pieces of budget gear by far.
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The Quiver: A plethora of puffies
The puffies Joan and I use for outdoor use. Updated in November 2023 to feflect both new pieces and input from Joan. Read More …
A swell time with friends
A swell time with friends over a Novemember weekend. Read More …