Getting Started

Solid (Standard) Fleece vs Grid Fleece

Posted onNovember 21, 2022November 24, 2022AuthorPaul Mags2 Comments

What are the functional differences between grid and solid (standard) fleece? Read More …

Sun protection techniques

Posted onNovember 8, 2022November 10, 2022AuthorPaul Mags3 Comments

Some of the gear, clothing, and techniques we use for sun protection when hiking and backpacking. Read More …

A properly attired hiker: Blaze orange in hunting season

Posted onOctober 5, 2022October 12, 2022AuthorPaul Mags23 Comments

Different options for the wearing of blaze orange while hiking during hunting season. Read More …

The Budget Backpacking Kit

Posted onMarch 28, 2022April 26, 2022AuthorPaul Mags18 Comments

A sequel of sorts to my $300 gear challenge. A little over $800 for a kit that is light, functional, and easily, assembled. Updated Mar 2022. Read More …

How to find dispersed camping sites?

Posted onSeptember 28, 2021September 30, 2021AuthorPaul Mags2 Comments

Designated sites can be practical. But Joan and I prefer dispersed sites for our camping. Here are some ideas on how to find dispersed (free) campsites. Read More …

Pee rag – Kula Cloth vs. cotton bandanna

Posted onSeptember 14, 2021September 15, 2021AuthorPaul Mags2 Comments

With over six months of active use, Joan looks at the well-known Kula Cloth and compares it to the more budget-minded bandanna from the past decade-plus of use. Read More …

Training for a long distance hike?

Posted onJuly 28, 2021July 28, 2021AuthorPaul Mags5 Comments

Here are my thoughts on training for a thru-hike or any long hike. I don’t think of it as training; I think of it as part of daily life. Read More …

Best shoes for water crossings?

Posted onJuly 27, 2021July 27, 2021AuthorPaul MagsLeave a comment

My opinion on the best shoes for water crossings. Read More …

Bear spray canister copy/pasta

Posted onJuly 23, 2021October 4, 2021AuthorPaul Mags12 Comments

More people insist they need bear spray when venturing into black bear country because “it is better to have it and not need it.”—my boilerplate response. Read More …

Budget camping gear

Posted onJune 24, 2021May 11, 2022AuthorPaul Mags5 Comments

Car camping serves as a useful introduction to the outdoors for many. And a useful adjunct to other trips for the experienced. How to equip affordably? Read More …

There’s an app for that – 2021 edition

Posted onDecember 29, 2020December 29, 2020AuthorPaul Mags2 Comments

The outdoor apps I use for my mobile device currently and plan on using in the coming year. Read More …

Start here: My unofficial outdoor guidebook

Posted onNovember 30, 2020December 1, 2020AuthorPaul Mags16 Comments

Here’s a quick reference to articles that will be useful for anyone starting out with camping, hiking, or backpacking in all four seasons. Updated Nov 2020. Read More …