Getting Started

Quick Tip: Psuedo Deadman Anchors

Posted on October 10, 2018 by Paul Mags — Leave a reply

Deadman anchors are the way to secure a shelter in soft sand or snow. But there is a happy medium between a true deadman anchor and hoping your stakes hold.

Sleepings Pads – A grounded view

Posted on October 9, 2018 by Paul Mags — 13 Comments ↓

An overview and comparison of sleeping pads for backpacking and camping. Updated October 2018.

Rain Gear – What To Wear?

Posted on October 4, 2018 by Paul Mags — 1 Comment ↓

Which rain gear or shell to wear? Depending on the conditions, one piece of gear may be better than another. Updated October 2018.

Quick Tip: Baking Soda and Vinegar for stains

Posted on October 2, 2018 by Paul Mags — 3 Comments ↓

Nasty dirt, oils, sweat, and salt in your outdoor clothing and gear? Grab some white vinegar and baking soda!

Ground Cloths : A quick overview

Posted on October 1, 2018 by Paul Mags — 43 Comments ↓

An overlook at some options for ground cloths when backpacking or camping. Updated for 2018.

A properly attired hiker: Blaze orange in hunting season

Posted on September 23, 2018 by Paul Mags — 9 Comments ↓

Different options for the wearing of blaze orange while hiking during hunting season. Revised for 2018.

Quick Tip: LNT Rule of Thumb for Animal Photos

Posted on September 14, 2018 by Paul Mags — Leave a reply

A literal rule of thumb for gauging if you are too close to an animal for photo taking.

Packing gear for traveling

Posted on July 17, 2018 by Paul Mags — 3 Comments ↓

Some tips, pointers, ideas, and caveats about packing backpacking gear when you’ll arrive by plane, train, or bus.

Basic Backcountry Hygiene: Why do it!?

Posted on April 26, 2018 by Paul Mags — 8 Comments ↓

Why basic hygiene in the backcountry is good for you, your health, your gear, fellow outdoor users, and the people in town.

Quick Tip: Water bottle leveler

Posted on February 27, 2018 by Paul Mags — 2 Comments ↓

An easy way to make sure the ground is level. Something showed to me when taking crew leader training for volunteer trail work.