Bear spray canister copy/pasta
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 …
Category: Musings
My views on life, the universe, and everything.
Ending campfire romanticism
I’ve made a case that campfires belong in the past with other practices. And to make that change, we need to change the culture around campfires—some thoughts. Read More …
To NOT build a fire
Why backcountry campfires should no longer be a regular part of the backpacking experience. Updated with modified views. Read More …
The scourge of Rec DOT gov
Recreation DOT gov gets managed by the multi-billion dollar DC beltway firm of Booz-Allen-Hamilton. And here’s why I think it’s awful. Read More …
Website of the week: Drought.gov
A look at a fascinating, interesting, and ultimately sobering website. Read More …
Love letters from devoted readers
Feeling the love from the wonderful comments from over the years. Read More …
2020: COVID, disappointment, and giving fewer f****
My year in review. A year I found disappointment but also much happiness. Read More …
Thoughts on gatekeeping
What is gatekeeping? And is withholding specific location information a form of it? Read More …
Gifts for yourself: A practical gift guide
Here are some gift ideas that an outdoors person can get for themselves. And they can be used in all seasons and in the coming years ahead. Updated for 2020. Read More …
Signs of the outdoors – Part 2
More signs I found amusing over my years of wilderness travel. Read More …
Back to the 1920s – Thoughts on outdoor rec
Thoughts on the state of outdoor recreation in our modern times. Read More …
Signs of the Outdoors – Part 1
A collection of signs I found amusing from my (mainly) outdoor travels. Part 1. Read More …
The politics of blaze orange and COVID masks
People on either side of the political divide are often more alike than different. They both eschew practicality and safety for political statements. Read More …
Small, good things.
A recent social media post made me think about shorter hikes and how they add up to a collective whole; much like a collection of well-crafted short stories. 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 …
Green friendly, consumerism, and minimalism – Some thoughts
Thinking (virtually) out loud about some ideas on the green-friendly movement, consumerism, and minimalism as it pertains to the outdoors. Read More …
An ode to the USPS
Why the US Postal System holds so much importance during my outdoor travels. Read More …
How to get ultralight?
Going ultralight with your gear is a Holy Grail of sorts for many new to backpacking. Here are some thoughts on achieving that goal. Read More …