In my last Trail Tip post, I discussed dehydration. I went over how to spot the symptoms and how to treat someone with mild to moderate dehydration. In this Trail Tip, we will discuss how to spot and treat heat exhaustion. Heat exhaustion can occur when you have an inadequate or unbalanced replacement of fluids caused by physical exertion during high temperatures. Many hikers, backpackers, and climbers who are participating in activities in the desert, with high temperatures, and high humidity levels will be more susceptible to heat exhaustion. When the body temperature increases and is unable ..read more

Hydration is crucial during any outdoor activity, whether you’re backpacking in arid deserts or snowshoeing in winter landscapes. The combination of physical exertion and dry conditions can quickly lead to dehydration. Understanding how to effectively prevent and manage dehydration is essential for any adventurer. Here, we outline key symptoms of mild to severe dehydration and provide practical advice on how to stay hydrated. Disclaimer While I do have training in wilderness first aid, we are not medical professionals. If you or anyone in your party exhibits severe dehydration symptoms or if y ..read more

Summer is the season of adventure, and for many, it means hitting the road in search of uncharted territories and camping under the stars. Whether you’re planning a relaxed car camping trip, an extensive overlanding expedition, or an adventure that involves the robust capabilities of a 4×4 vehicle, taking care of your gear is crucial to ensure a seamless experience. Here’s your go-to guide to keep your travel gear in top shape! 1. Regular Maintenance of Your 4×4 Vehicle Before embarking on your journey, a thorough check-up of your 4×4 is essential. Focus on the basics: check your vehicle’s oil ..read more

We all have fears and concerns about getting outdoors. Some of these I struggle from and others are from talking with you all our outdoor community. We have put together a list of five things that we hear people are most concerned about when going on solo adventures. These fears and concerns should not keep you from getting outside. Instead, we have put together some great ways to help. 1.  Lions, Tigers, and Bears… oh my! Everyone has heard of the horror stories of people being attacked but what is not always spoken about is most people who see bears, mountain lions, and other potentiall ..read more

It’s another brilliant day, and the trail beckons. Whether you’re heading out for a gentle hike or tackling a rigorous trek, one companion you should never underestimate is the sun. Much like you wouldn’t venture out without a map, going unprepared without sun protection is a risk not worth taking. So, let’s talk about how to keep your skin safe under the sun’s enthusiastic rays, ensuring that the only thing you bring back from your adventure is good memories. 1. Choose the Right Sunscreen First things first—sunscreen is your best friend on the trail. Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an ..read more

Ah, the great outdoors! Whether you’re pitching a tent under the stars, conquering the next ridge, or cruising down the highway with your favorite tunes, there’s no doubt that being prepared with the right kind of nutrition can make or break your adventure. Just as we prep our gear with meticulous care, the food we bring along needs the same thoughtful attention. Here’s how you can keep your stomach full and spirits high, no matter where your travels take you. 1. Plan Ahead and Pack Smart Before you hit the road or trail, planning is paramount. Think meals that are not only easy to carry but a ..read more

Your bags are packed and your route all mapped. Do you ever feel like you are forgetting something as you close and lock your door? Here are five areas that you may or may not have thought about adding to your trip planning logistics. 1. Weather, environment, and elevation. How many times have you checked the local weather packed for that weather and headed off? Once you get there you realize that you will be climbing a mountain and you only packed your summer gear and it’s going to be a little chilly up there. Maybe you did not pack enough rain gear for a very wet outing because of afternoon ..read more

Embarking on a day hike brings with it the allure of uncharted trails, breathtaking vistas, and the pure joy of being one with nature. However, the difference between a day filled with awe-inspiring moments and one that tests your limits lies in two critical aspects: preparation and knowledge. Let’s venture into the essentials of day hiking, ensuring your journey is both exhilarating and safe. Research & Navigation: Charting Your Course The cornerstone of any successful hike is thorough research and navigation planning. Understanding the ins and outs of your chosen trail can transform your ..read more

Stepping into the wilderness on your own terms is an adventure that whispers to the soul, promising both the balm of solitude and the thrill of autonomy. It’s a choice that dances on the edge of freedom and vulnerability, offering a canvas as vast and varied as the trails that wind through the heart of nature. For those who’ve tasted the quietude of a solo trek, the call of the wild is a personal serenade, a journey not just through the forest, but into the self.’  The Sweet Solace of Solo Hiking 1. The Luxury of Unfettered Freedom: There’s something inherently liberating about setting yo ..read more

Learn more at http://blog.rei.com/paulsboots/ If you have not heard about the story of Paul’s boots by now it is a story that will leave you touched and fall in love with the backpacking community all over again. “Recently, a heartbroken woman contacted the Dirtbag Diaries with a story about a man who waited just a little bit too long to chase a dream. Paul remained indefinitely stuck in the quicksand of responsibility. Entwined in rat race of obligations, he put off his aspirations to care for struggling loved ones. When tragedy struck, Paul’s life was snuffed out too soon, leaving his ..read more